Re: [Paddlewise] NiCads in a VHF

pbaum_at_ix.netcom.com wrote:

> [Snip] ... the number 1 buying criteria
> I used the last time to buy a VHF radio was that it should feed on akaline
> batteries so I could carry a replacement set.  I've "had it" with NI-CD
> battery operated cell phones and laptops that become increasingly unreliable
> (as the battery gets used) and "self-discharge", sometimes in as little as
> 2-3 days.

[snip]  

You have hit on my pet peeve for handheld VHF units.  I used to fly RC
models, and learned many times not to trust NiCads.  Many unanticipated
failures, even though I cycled and tested the batteries regularly.  The
insidious thing about NiCads with a VHF is that the degradation is very
subtle, especially if you do NOT regularly use the battery to
exhaustion.  Then, one fine day when you REALLY need that VHF, you find
that it only lasts for 10 minutes of transmission instead of the
expected (and rated) 30 minutes.  I think NiCads are good for someone
who can always recharge *every night*  (forget solar recharge), and who
can carry a spare pack.
 
> For some reason, the manufacturers don't seem to make alkaline powered
> handheld radios in the "waterproof" radios.  [snip]  I
> have recently ordered a second VHF radio, the ICOM M10A, from Defender
> Industries, on the WEB for $135.  Very compact and lightweight with 2.5 watt
> power.  Not waterproof so I'll keep it in a baggy.
> 
> By the way, some vendors apparently make auxiliary battery packs, some of
> which use akaline batteries, I don't have much detail on them.

I own two of the ICOM M10A units, and swear by 'em.  Wish they came with
another alkaline pack variant to boost the output on TX to 5W  (there is
a NiCad pack option which will do that).  However, I've never (yet) had
a situation where I felt the 3W (or, 2.5W) hurt me.  Might be in my
future, though.  I've made contact off the beach 8 miles to an 8 ft VHF
whip (shore-based, maybe 10 feet off the water), and I think that's
close to the practical range for a 5W under similar conditions.

(Yesterday I was on the River for several hours and monitored shipping
traffic on Ch 13 -- which was really yapping up a storm -- and I could
easily hear their ONE WATT transmissions over a distance of 5 miles,
with broken reception at 8 miles, and probably nothing at 10 miles.  Of
course, all those units were using tall antennas, some from a freighter
mast, and most off tugs.)

Even though the M10A is not a "submersible" unit, I believe the thicker
plastic radio bags give good protection, if you do not abuse them.

I have punctured two bags.  One was at a seam because I sat on the bag
and popped it from over-pressurizing the interior!  The other occurred
due to a "hard edge" from the radio (was not an M10A) wearing through. 
Both punctures were easily (and permanently) fixed with vinyl repair
fluid from REI.  Neither puncture resulted in water infiltration, so I
never lost a radio.  A guy I know from Corvallis, OR, who regularly uses
a handheld VHF replaces his radio bag every 12 months.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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