[Paddlewise] batteries for electric pumps and VHF's

I have 2 6V lantern batteries connected in series inside a tupperware
box.  

I chose dry batteries instead of the alkaline model because
of the power curve--alkaline batteries sustain the same power output
a long time, and then drop suddenly, while dry batteries from the
very beginning drop slowly to the end.

That way, if my batteries are low, I can tell before I set up for
long trip. The alkaline batteries would fool me by giving  a high power
output, and drop when I needed them the most.

The time span of the power curve of the NiCad batteries shortens
with time, so they will last shorter time the longer they are used.

VHF radios, on the other side, do not work well with low voltages, so
it is important to maintain hight voltage to the end. That is why
VHF radios work better with Alkaline batteries.

something to consider,
- Julio

in response to:
>         NiCds can produce very strong current flow, and that's what's
> important for this application.  How about trying 8 Alkaline C or D cells?
> They too can push out the current and have a longer life than the
> carbon/zinc cells.
> 

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