The FT-60 looks like I might be interested for one big reason alone.
They have a 6 AA cell case, which, if 1.2 volt rechargeable were used,
would give you the same 5-Watts out. In addition using
akaline's should even give you more - except in the 5 watt power
position, the current draw would probably lower the cells to where I
suspect you might only get the 5 or so watts.
This is a great feature, as I like to have a radio ready to go in an
emergency that uses AA cells.
The Fire service more or less adopted the use of AA Akaline's for all
strike teams etc years ago.
My question is: Has anybody tried both 1.2 volt rechargables and 1.5
volt akaline's ?
Does anybody have the results as to the power output using these cells
in the battery case?
Thanks
Tom Seabury - KI6O

开云体育

----- Original Message -----

From: ki6o

To: FT-60@...

Sent: Thursday, October 07, 2004 3:23 PM

Subject: [FT-60] Six Cell Battery Case Question

Tom,

?

I have used alkaline cells from time to time in my vx150 which has the same form factor as the '60.

In the EMA that I work for we use nickle-metal in the summer and ni-cad in the winter.? When the temp gets below freezing, the ni-cads work better.? If a lithium pack us available for a particular radio we definitely will use it.? There is a lithium available for the vx150 and should also work in the '60.? It works fine but needs a charger that will charge that type of battery.

In regards to alkaline cells, don't forget that they drop voltage during their lifetime.? The rechargeables-regardless of their type usually hold the voltage until at least 80% of the capacity is used.? Therefore you will experience a power drop gradually during usage of alkalines.

?

In the Chicago area the fire services still use rechargeable batteries for the most part.

?

In closing, I would say to you, try the alkalines and see where they take you.? In your situation they may be what works best.? I keep an extra case with alkalines near by just in case.

?

Art Vidmar

N9AOP--