[VHFcontesting] Battery Question

[Mark Adams]

Hi Austin,

The custom designed charge circuit we were using was essentially the same as
the PWRGate unit. Turns out that given cable losses, max alternator output,
etc, we were getting about 9-10 amps peak charge current. By hooking it up
directly, we only gained an amp or two. So, we're not overtaxing the
vehicle. I do agree that the PWRGate is the safest way to go.

Looks like, from the replies that the Optima batteries are getting super
reviews. It these prices, I wonder whether I should simply go with one
battery and a Honda EU2000i.

Yes, we use PowerPoles for all DC connections. The higher current ones are
crimped and soldered.

73,
Mark K2QO
FN03ra



On Wed, Sep 15, 2010 at 2:58 PM, Austin <austin at k4amk.us> wrote:

> Mark,
>
> I asked this same question over on the VHF Reflector a little over a
> week ago.
>
> As a result of the advice that I got, I went with #6 gauge wire directly
> from the battery (with fuses right there) to the back of my SUV.  There
> I plugged into a West Mountain PWRGate on the "PS" Post, and then I
> connected my bank of my batteries into the "Battery" post (both with
> Anderson Poles).  The PWRGate offers you fusing, but it also limits the
> charging to 10amps.  I connected all of my radio's and amplifier's
> directly to the bank of batteries.
>
> For batteries, I went with the Optima YellowTop D31 series.  I got them
> from a local dealer here for just under $200 each plus tax.  For the
> rover station, I went with a bank of four of these Optima's.  Probably
> overkill but didn't want to be stuck out somewhere and no power to
> operate.
>
> Good luck!
>
> 73,
>
> Austin
> K4AMK
>