Through groups like the Amateur Radio Emergency Service and the Radio Amateur Communications Emergency Service, amateur radio operators often support first responders with radio communications during natural disasters and major community events. It's therefore important to mobile hams to use the best batteries on the market to support operation during power outages.

On the Road Again

The minimum rig for remote emergency operations consists of an antenna optimized for specific band plans, a receiver, a transmitter and a microphone. Most portable radios combine the latter three devices into a single unit that runs on direct-current power. These radios also contain the necessary regulators, such as a battery, to efficiently use a DC power source.

Dial It to 11

Mobile rigs don't run on standard batteries you can buy at the supermarket. Many hams connect a larger power source, like a car battery, to supply enough energy over a long period of time. For example, a radio transmitting continuously on the 2-meter band at 5 watts will deplete a standard alkaline AA battery in roughly 15 minutes. A bigger battery supports longer usage times and less downtime from power-source swapping.

Good for the Long Haul

A deep-cycle battery is designed for repetitive deep discharge, whereas a starter battery supports more frequent discharges that eat into comparably little of the battery's total stored power. The battery under your car's hood is a starter battery; it gives you a lot of cranking amps, but if you discharge it a few times -- like when you forget to shut off the headlights -- the battery dies. Boats and RVs, however, use deep-cycle batteries for continuous-use operations; they are designed to draw down and recharge many times, although they provide fewer amps and aren't as effective for engine starting.

Drawing Deep

Deep-cycle batteries, because they provide long-term power at a steady rate, are ideal power sources for amateur radio rigs. This battery type, despite being optimized for outdoor use, such as RVs and boats, runs with less volatility, so there's comparatively less risk of power damage related to power fluctuations. However, make sure to use these batteries in outdoor or well-ventilated environments.

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