On 8 Apr 2005 at 21:09, Keith Wrage wrote: > Only thing missing that I > think many people want is the ability to accept standard AA batteries > in the battery tray. I've started shopping for a marine VHF unit again. This time I'll likely buy one. I've come to the conclusion that some of the newer models that use lithium batteries _almost_ make AA battery trays unnecessary. Since the lithium batteries have a very long shelf life compared to NiMH or NiCd (i.e. they don't self-discharge at a significant rate) they can be relied on to stay charged on a long trip. If you add the capability to recharge on trip (with the charger) using another power source (solar panel, spare AGM battery or other 12V source) keeping AA backups is less necessary. For example, I could recharge a lithium unit from my electric bilge pump battery. This means that I have to be proactive on keeping the charge up, since I haven't seen whether I can get a radio that works _while_ being charged (my cell phone, for example, can be used while charging). Lithium batteries don't solve the problem of running down the battery faster than you planned (like an accidental short circuit). My expected use pattern means that I no longer look for AA compatibility if I get a lithium. Unfortunately, the lithium batteries are only available in the pricier models of marine VHF handhelds. Mike *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Fri Apr 08 2005 - 23:31:00 PDT
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