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In the section "Specifications" of the Elecraft K2 Manual, Elecraft limits the supply voltage to the range 9-15 Volts.
Especially for field operation (Rucksack transport!) it is attractive to save weight using rechargeable Lithium
batteries instead of lead or nickel batteries.
The useful voltage range delivered by a single lithium cell is from 4.2 V to 3 V. Connecting 4 cells in series, this battery pack delivers from 16.8 V (max) to 12 V (min). With a load connected, the 16.8 V will, however, rapidly drop to a lower voltage. The plateau voltage for such a pack is from about 14 V to 14.8 V, a very useful range for operation with the K2.
The question is: Keeping the power rating of the K2 below the nominal, say 12 -15 W (max), is it possible to apply a voltage of slightly over 16 V to the K2 without producing a failure in the electronics?
The alternative possibility with lithium batteries (and without protecting the upper voltage limit f.i. with Zener diodes) would be to use 3 cells in series. This leads to a voltage range from 12.8 V to 9 V. Certainly within Elecrafts supply voltage specifications, but too low for practical operation.
I appreciate any answer with this issue. It also might be of interest to other K2 users.
73, Rolf, DL3AO
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