I would be really interested in the 8 triple A's NiMH with a charge
controller.
This with a an extra backpanel would make it easy to choose between time and
power.
73
Nick
PAØNCV
We've located a 4-AAA cell battery holder that would fit inside the KX1
(one at each end of the bottom cover, as with the present AA holders). 8
cells would provide 10 or 12 volts, giving you significantly more power
output than 6 of the same cells (as much as 4 watts). The tradeoff would
be in battery life. AAA-size NiMH, alkaline and lithium cells provide
around 1000 to 1250 mA-hours, or around half as much as similar
high-capacity AA cells.
Another option would be to use a small lithium polymer battery. 11 volts
at up to 1450 mA-hours or so might be possible, although these batteries
are very expensive. AAAs might be preferable in a pinch because you can
buy them anywhere. In the field, you can borrow triple-As from flashlights
or other portable electronic devices. The difference in weight between 8
triple As and a LiPo battery is probably only couple of ounces, so weight
is not likely to be the primary criteria.
You'd probably get five to eight hours of casual operation with NiMH,
LiPo, or lithium cells, which are preferable to alkalines because of their
flat discharge curve. Of course you could recharge NiMH or LiPo cells in
the field with a small solar panel. (Has anyone tried using 8 AAA cells
with the KX1?)
We could (in theory) create a new bottom cover option for the KX1 that
would include two 4-cell AAA holders or a LiPo battery, plus a charge
controller that would run from the KX1's DC input jack. The battery
holders and charge controller components could be soldered to a thin PCB
module that runs the full length of the bottom cover. In the case of AAAs,
we'd include a switch to select rechargeable or non-rechargeable
batteries. You might be able to recharge while operating, although this
would have to be tested, since some charge controller generate significant
noise.
Any input on such a product would be appreciated. If there were
significant interest, we'd try to have it ready early next year.
73,
Wayne
N6KR
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