In a message dated 21/06/2010 17:27:29 GMT Standard Time, tjjapha@earthlink.net writes:
I use 2 FT817s for portable ops, and have been disappointed in the battery performance. Last year, I bought replacement batteries from Batteries America, the FNB-72xe, rated at 9.6v. at 2000mAh. There's no noticable difference between these new batteries and the originals.
The batteries charge to just over 11.0 volts, but quickly drop through 10 volts, as indicated by the voltage reading that appears when the rigs are turned on. Maybe this is just normal behavior for a 9.6 v. battery. Is this what you would expect? Has anyone found a battery with a higher voltage rating and/or one that will maintain a higher voltage for an appreciable period--and fits into the 817? Every bit of power helps!
Many tnx and 73, Tony, N2UN LM 183
Hi Tony.
Not sure about fitting in the FT817....But there are a lot of people over here participating in "summits on the air" driving / walking / climbing to the top of a peak and making some QSOs. The FT817 is very popular and they all seem to be using 3 series Lithium polymer cells. According to the hype, the lithium polymers weigh nothing hold nearly infinate charge and finally discharge within a few seconds of the natural lifespan of the operators radio.
Whatever the reality, they may be worth investigating.
Regards
David G0MRF