[Elecraft] KXBC3 questions...

[Matt Maguire]

While the KX3 can sense the battery voltage, it can't sense the voltage (or
temperature) of the individual cells of the battery, and so it can not
detect  an imbalance that may result in undercharging or overcharging of
specific cells. Therefore, Elecraft opted for a conservative approach of
using a safe low charge rate (C/10) with a timer.

I suppose a charging cycle could be initiated automatically based on
battery voltage, but it is probably better to rely on the low battery
voltage warning to indicate that a low threshold has been reached, and then
let the operator decide when is an appropriate time to initiate a charging
cycle (eg. if you are operating off an external battery in the field, you
may not want a charging cycle for the internal cells to start until you get
home and connect the KX3 to the mains supply).

73, Matt VK2RQ
On Nov 3, 2012 10:40 AM, "Jeff Herr" <herr42 at comcast.net> wrote:

> 1. Why can't the charging circuit apply charge current until a voltage
> threshold is reached as opposed to being timer controlled?
> 2. Why can't charging be initiated by the battery voltage being below a
> threshold  ?
>
> The ability to sense the battery voltage exists.
>
>
> WW6L
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net
> [mailto:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David F. Reed
> Sent: Friday, November 02, 2012 15:31
> To: elecraft Reflector
> Subject: [Elecraft] KXBC3 arrived
>
> The KXBC3 for my KX3 (serial # 620) arrived today. It took less than an
> hour
> to install, set up, and test.  Most of the time went into making sure the
> sockets that connect it to the main board were lined up properly before
> pressing it down (slowed down by poor eyesight and less than steady hands).
>
> It all went well, and is currently charging my IMEDION 2500 ma, batteries,
> with another 13.27.00 to go before I know if it shuts off as expected, and
> charged to what voltage, etc.
>
> Thanks again Elecraft for keeping the dream alive.
>
> 73 de Dave, W5SV
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