[Kenwood] 480HX and How To Power It

[Rick Bates]

Generally it is a BAD idea to use a power supply to charge a battery without
added circuitry to manage the charge rate, equalization and float charge
like a real battery charger.

Typically you want a high voltage to charge the battery to overcome internal
resistances but at a controlled current rate, diminishing over time.  Both
the voltage and current need to be managed properly to get the maximum
charge for the battery.  Running a wide open power supply will 'cook' the
battery through overcharge.  Running it at a lower voltage means that the
battery is never fully charged, again shortening its life.

A power supply is fine for a quick charge (heavy lifting) but the fine
charging should be something like a 'battery minder' programmed for the
battery type (flooded, sealed, gel, metals).

Many solar chargers have this smarts and can be used as charging
controllers.  They have a wide range of input voltages and can maximize what
is available for correct charging.  HOWEVER: Some radiate copious amounts of
RF noise (compare MPPT to PWM types) so buy carefully.

Short version:  If battery costs don't impact your budget (are free) then a
power supply used as a charger is fine.  But if you want them to last longer
than a year or two, treat (charge) them with respect.

Happy New Year!
Rick wa6nhc


-----Original Message-----
From: WD8ARZ

A  standard ham 100 watt rig power supply will easily charge such a 
system when your on the base and portable (you probably already have 
that supply left over from some other ham rig), and the vehicle battery 
is used for charging on the road. Solar could be a source as well.