Quick Answer
A car battery can power a ham radio, but it's essential to consider the battery's capacity, the radio's power requirements, and the duration of use.
Choosing the Right Battery
To power a ham radio, you’ll need a deep cycle battery with a high amp-hour (Ah) rating. A 12V, 100Ah battery is a good starting point, but consider a 200Ah or larger battery for longer operation. For example, a Yaesu FT-60R ham radio draws around 1A of current, so a 100Ah battery can last for around 100 hours of continuous use.
Managing Battery Power
To get the most out of your car battery, use a switching regulator or a DC-DC converter to step down the voltage to 12V. This will prevent over-discharging the battery and prolong its lifespan. Additionally, use a low-drain mode on your ham radio to conserve energy. For example, the Yaesu FT-60R has a low-drain mode that consumes around 0.1A of current.
Powering Your Ham Radio in an Emergency
In an emergency situation, it’s crucial to have a reliable power source for your ham radio. By using a deep cycle car battery and a switching regulator or DC-DC converter, you can power your ham radio for an extended period. Remember to store your battery in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from heat sources to prolong its lifespan.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.