[Elecraft] Best Batteries for KX-3?

[Mark Petiford]

 First, and most important, don't leave alkaline cells in your radio for long periods.  They will eventually leak.  If you have the KXBC3 installed, I suggest high quality Low Self Discharge (LSD) NiMh cells such as Eneloops,  If you don't have the KXBC3 installed, non-rechargeable Lithium cells would be a good choice, although those are pretty pricey where I live.  I could quickly justify the cost of a KXBC3 based on the price of non-rechargeable Lithium cells.

The Eneloop LSD Rechargeable cells have a great track record.  I've had my Eneloop 2000 cells since February 2013 with no problems.  I think I am finally just starting to detect signs of reduced capacity, so maybe it is time to upgrade them to the newer, higher capacity Eneloops.

I have tried non-LSD NiMH cells from time to time, but they really don't work very well.  They quickly self-discharge to below 1 volt per cell, damaging themselves in the process.  Don't waste you money on them.  Cells that are shipped fully charged are usually LSD.
   
 On Wednesday, February 28, 2018, 7:27:18 PM PST, Dennis W0JX via Elecraft <elecraft at mailman.qth.net> wrote:  
 
 I have just put my KX-3 into portable service trying to locate noise sources around my property and neighborhood. I put eight brand new Duracell alkaline cells...  I am surprised with how fast the battery voltage is dropping as indicated by the KX-3 display. What batteries would be better to use for this application where I might be out for as long as two hours looking for noise sources?