KX3 Ordered - Battery/Power Questions

[Todd Atkins]

Greetings Elecraft group, Todd Atkins K4MSW here.  I've been QRT for some
time but recently ordered the KX3 kit loaded up with all options and about
to jump back in the hobby again.  I am needing to place an order for some
power options and wanted to run this by you guys, first.  I did attempt to
search the reflector for battery info but a lot of it looks old/outdated
and I'm getting older too, so I need some guidance/advice.

1.  As for internal batteries, seems that a good deal is the Sanyo Eneloop
XX 2500mAh LSDs.  I can get 8 of these on Amazon for $30.24 shipped.  Are
these adequate?  Also, the internal battery charger on the KX3 will charge
these just fine (probably overnight) so I don't need a separate charger,
correct?

2.  I'd like to have a power cord/wall cord just in case I'm outta
batteries or need to operate at home.  I want the full 10-12 watts out of
the rig, so I realize I need a proper 13v+ clean supply.  I found one on
Allelectronics for $16.00

http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/PS-154/15VDC-4A-SWITCHING-POWER-SUPPLY/1.html

and the specs are: Model # SPU-45. Input: 100-240V 50/60Hz, 1.2A Max.
Output: 15Vdc, 4A. 6' cord with right-angle 2.1mm coax power plug, center
positive. Would this one be ok?

3.  I do want to be able to get the 10-12W portable as well, so I'm hunting
for reasonably priced LIPO, LiFePO4, or A123 but I'd rather not have to
mess with a voltage limiter, etc.  I've looked at the A123's sold on the
Buddipole site but they are a bit expensive.  The 4S1P and the Cellpro
Multi4 Charger combined are about $175.  Can anyone comment on this brand?
I know Buddipole puts APP connectors on the battery and charger which is
nice.  Any other more cost effective options you guys have used
successfully?

4.  Anyone have link for an appropriate power cable that plugs into a car
cigarette lighter?  Would it be safe to go straight into the KX3 from the
cigarette lighter, or maybe fuse is needed?

Many thanks in advance guys.  Sorry if I've asked for information already
covered.  Links and references to previous threads, sources, and articles
would be great, and of course your replies/advice are appreciated.

73 de Todd, K4MSW
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[k5oai]

  I do not have a KX3 myself so can only refer to the following thread:

in the thread "Re: [Elecraft] Kx3 (Battery thread)"
Jim W0EB said:

<quote>

The Eneloop batteries have been in my KX3 since it was built and I've
NEVER had
them self-discharge enough to cause the KX3 to shut down and I use it
often.  I
don't usually charge them until the pack's indicated voltage gets down to
around 9.3 volts under load and then an 8 hour charge puts things back
to where
it was.

You DO have to have at least 13 volts of external power to be able to
charge
them with the KXBC3.  Any less and they may not charge properly.  Even a
big 12
volt external battery pack simply won't provide proper operation of the
charger.

Jim - W0EB
</quote>

http://www.mail-archive.com/elecraft@.../msg160836.html

maybe that will help with the info you need?
On 11/9/2013 4:42 PM, Todd Atkins wrote:
> 1.  As for internal batteries, seems that a good deal is the Sanyo Eneloop
> XX 2500mAh LSDs.  I can get 8 of these on Amazon for $30.24 shipped.  Are
> these adequate?  Also, the internal battery charger on the KX3 will charge
> these just fine (probably overnight) so I don't need a separate charger,
> correct?

--

GB & 73
K5OAI
Sam Morgan
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[Tex]

I use the Eneloop XX 2500 and am very pleased.  The internal charger charges then just fine.  Can't comment on the power supply.  I use the Gamma Research HPS-1A which is overkill for only 12 watts but it will also power my K3 at 100 watts and KX3 with the 100 watt amp when I get one.  It is probably as small as the supply you are looking at.  It is a very good supply for its size, nothing else in its class.

Welcome back....

73 Tex
ka5y