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In some of my past portable radio rigs I’ve used generic charge controllers due to their affordable price point.  However, I’ve discovered that some charge controllers can contribute to RFI during radio operations.  When attempting to troubleshoot interference, some of the first procedures one may start with would be proper grounding.  Ground helps ensure RF noise is conducted away to the ground, as opposed to being emitted as radiation.  Aside from grounding, shielding and filtering are also good solutions in preventing radio interference in your equipment.  

Out of the many solar charging technologies available, one solution I use on a regular basis are Genasun change controllers.  These charge controllers are a popular among many amateur radio enthusiasts for RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) free charging.

If you’re new to integrating solar charge controllers into your radio rig, from a high level, this device regulates output from the panel to the battery.  Another reason the Genasun charge controllers are popular is their form factor which is complimentary for reducing weight in portable amateur radio applications.  The Genasun charge controllers do not have a Heat Sink because they are extremely efficient, and they have a reputation for not getting hot and going into thermal shutdown.  

Specifications:

  • Max. Recomm. Panel Power: 65 W
  • Rated Battery (Output) Current: 5 A
  • Continuous Rated Load Current: 5 A
  • Max Panel Voltage: 27 V
  • Max. Recomm. Panel Voc at STC: 22 V
  • Min. Battery Voltage for Operation: 7.2 V
  • Trickle Charge to Recover Dead (0V) Battery: Yes
  • Charge Voltage CC/CV 14.2V (3.55 V per cell)
  • Load Disconnect/Reconnect Voltage: 11 V / 12 V
  • Operating Temp. Range: -40 °C – 85 °C
  • Electrical Efficiency: 96-99% typical
  • Operating consumption: 0.150 mA
  • Night Consumption: 0.125 mA
  • Environmental Protection: IP40, Conformal Coating, Nickel-Plated Brass & Stainless Hardware
  • Connection: 4-position terminal block for 12-30 AWG wire
  • Weight: 2.8 oz., 80 g
  • Dimensions: 4.3″ x 2.2″ x 0.9″
  • Certifications: CE, FCC, RoHS

Features:

  • MPPT BUCK technology
  • DC Output Load with Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD)
  • LED indicator for battery state of charge
  • 99.85% Peak Efficiency
  • High-speed MPPT Tracking (15 times per sec)
  • Advanced electronic protection (over-temperature, panel overload, battery and panel switched, reverse battery polarity, reverse panel polarity, load short circuit)
  • Advanced 2-stage charge profile for 4S LiFePO4
  • Tiny self-consumption
  • Radio Silence, HAM Radio friendly
  • Made in the USA
  • 10-Year Warranty

Another popular tool for radio enthusasists seeking to assemble a lightweight portable rig are lithium batteries.  The benefits of these batteries are light weight, and the technology of a lithium battery is generally considered superior to that of a lead acid battery due to its efficiency and reliability.  For comparison, a lead-acid batteries typically provide less usable energy with higher rates of discharge, and are usually limited to 50% of the rated capacity to prevent diminished life. 

Note: depending on the type of battery you’re attempting to charge, you’ll want to match the correct type of charge controller with that battery.  For example, if you have a Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery, or a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), you’ll want to ensure the charge controller you’re using is compatible with the battery and charge setting recommendations. 

  • The battery is a 12.8 volt 4.5 AH (58 Watt hour) LiFePo4 bank.
  • The internal three stage charge controller will accept up to a 60 watt solar panel.
  • The included wall charger will charge the system in 4 hours or less.
  • The internal Battery Protection Circuit prevents overcharge, over-discharge, and short circuits.
  • The USB drivers are independent, switched, and are 3 amps each.
  • The volt meter continuously displays the system voltage, and reacts to confirm solar or AC charging.
  • The case is high-impact ABS and thick rubber.
  • Four rubber feet protect the rear and allow the ReVolt to stand vertically.
  • All hardware is stainless steel.

Anyone who has put a portable radio rig together has likely had to consider how to manage the wiring of the rig in conjunction with the solar accessories.  Hardened Power Systems offers a bundle of Anderson power and USB cables for managing components.   

If you’re looking into setting up a turn-key wiring bundle, this accessory bundle is a good start.  However, depending on the type of radio rig and other needs you have, you may need to source other wiring harnesses and connectors from other retailers.  Powerwerx.com is a great website for sourcing power supplies, wiring, connectors, and other odds and ends to complete your rig. 

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