I have experimented with LiFePo4 batteries feeding KX3/KXPA100 in contest
environment where duty cycle is about 50% for TX. For SSB the current draw
is a bit higher then for CW. 25Ah battery lasted 4 to 4.5 hour with 100 W in
the beginning and dropping to 50-60W out in the end of the cycle. For SLA of
the same capacity you will probably have half of that time. With 2x 60W
solar panels added to the mix I get between 6 to 8 hours in semi sunny
weather. I have ended up with a pair of LiFePo4 25Ah each (about 2 Kg each)
which allow full day of operation. Again if you use SLA instead of LiFePo4
you will need at least 100 Ah.
73, Igor UA9CDC
----- Original Message -----
From: "Esquer Dave" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 1:41 AM
Subject: [Elecraft] Battery requirements for NPOTA activation
withKX3/KXPA100
Hi folks,
I know this has been asked and discussed before but I can’t seem to get a
handle on a clear-cut answer …
I am going to do a SSB NPOTA (National Parks on the Air) activation with
my KX3/KXPA100/PX3 on battery power. It has been in the works for a while
with a special use permit required by the NPS.
How much battery capacity do I need if I want to run full 100 watts? For
planning purposes, I am assuming a 6 hour activation with a (highly
optimistic I know) 60 QSOs per hour.
The PX3 will be powered by a separate LiFePo 4.8 aH battery, it will do
just fine. My concern is the amount of draw I will need to last the 6
hours. With an inline (Hobby King) HK-010 Power Analyzer, I see a max
current (KX3/KXPA100 combo) of about 8 amps and about 80 watts during a
QSO. The QSOs varies between 50-80 watts on transmit.
I also know that once I am spotted, I can drop the power down to maybe
75-50 watts to save some battery juice.
I have 2 12v-18aH SLA batteries at the ready, am I woefully underpowered?
If you have any real-world experience or tips, it is most valuable and
appreciated. You can contact me offline at dave dot esquer AT gmail as
well.
Thanks,
Dave, K6WDE
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