>My first PB100 has entered my life (right behind my first 190) and I'd >sure like to make the thing usable. Are there any sources for the main >batteries internals? Alternatively, how about replacing the L-A cells >with NiCads?
NiCds are not as forgiving regarding recharging than lead-acid, and can't equal lead-acid's energy density either. If you can deal with the weight of em, lead-acid is a better battery for most users than NiCd or NiMH. The only thing better, is Lithium-Ion. Lead-acid cells have the virtue of being safely rechargeable from any point of discharge without so-called "memory" problems, and are the still best value for the dollar. Lithium-Ion is expensive, but ideal if a small, light battery is required. I don't know the power requirements of the PB100, but I can say that ANY sealed lead-acid battery or batteries from any source, may be used to supply the needed current. If, for instance, the machine requires 12V DC at say, 3 Amp/hours then any combination of 12V gel cells (ie the type used for emergency lighting) which come in a variety of mostly rectangular packages, may be used, provided that their amperage or combined amperage be greater or equal to 3 Amp/hours. It's perfectly safe, even desirable, to supply 6, 7 or 20 Amp/hours if you have room for it (it'll take longer to recharge though!). If you want to explore this, contact me off-list and I'll be happy to walk you through it. I've been messing around with power supplies and battery rebuilding for a long time, and can save you some headaches. I'd be happy to help out :) -- PowerBooks is sponsored by <http://lowendmac.com/> and... Small Dog Electronics http://www.smalldog.com | Enter To Win A | -- Canon PowerShot Digital Cameras start at $299 | Free iBook! | Support Low End Mac <http://lowendmac.com/lists/support.html> PowerBooks list info: <http://lowendmac.com/lists/powerbooks.shtml> --> AOL users, remove "mailto:"; Send list messages to: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To unsubscribe, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> For digest mode, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subscription questions: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Archive: <http://www.mail-archive.com/powerbooks%40mail.maclaunch.com/> Using a Mac? Free email & more at Applelinks! http://www.applelinks.com
