SDS100/SDS200: 3D Print an AA Battery Pack...

[Neutrino222]

I was examining the battery compartment of the SDS100, and noticed that it would quite comfortably fit four AA cells. Having done a little research, one argument that popped up was the AA cells would run down faster. As far as I can deduce - with my layman approach - and according to the the Mh readings on both the Uniden battery pack and four AA batteries, four AA batteries would give roughly 16 Mh compared to 19.98 Mh. I can't see that as a massive setback, unless, in my infantile ignorance, I've missed some fundamental calculations along the way.

If there is anyone learned in electronics, a comparison between the Uniden battery pack and four AA batteries would be helpful, but please provide the calculations in your reply.

If this is plausible, it might be possible for someone to 3D print a battery back that would accommodate 4 AA batteries. I would be willing to part fund the project, if others are interested. The convenience of accessing AA batteries is worth a small compromise in running time.

4 AA batteries would fit into the block with enough space for the terminals.

 

[pro92b]

The Uniden battery specs are 3.7VDC, 5400mAh and 19.98Wh. Note that 3.7 multiplied times 5.4 is 19.98.

AA cells are rated at 1.2 volts so to try and approximately match the 3.7 volt Uniden battery three AA cells would be connected in series. Then 3.6 volts multiplied times 2Ah yields 7.2Wh, about 36% of the capacity of the Uniden battery.

 

[hiegtx]

My concern on this is whether the voltage of 4 AA's in the pack, versus the normal voltage of the original, Uniden battery would be a problem.

As pro92b noted, the AA's would normally be about ~1.2 volts each (for rechargeable batteries), or 1.5 volts for non-rechargeable AA's. If the rechargeables are in the 1.2 to 1.3 volt range, then the output voltage would be at, or slightly above, 5 volts. Since the external power, via USB, is in the 5 volt range, that might not be an issue. However, if using 4 alkaline AA's, the output voltage would be in the six volt, or slightly higher, range. No idea as to whether the scanner could shrug off the voltage difference and operate without a problem.

 

[hunterca]

This is why it is a lithium-ion pack that is housed by metal and plastic to Unidens' specs only.
At least they sourced a company (TOCOS) for the volume encoders.

 

[fxdscon]

If there is anyone learned in electronics, a comparison between the Uniden battery pack and four AA batteries would be helpful, but please provide the calculations in your reply.

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The subject comes up fairly often, and others have done the math...

My wishlist for the next "flagship" model...

I will not enter the debate about a myriad of options on the next flagship model. I just want a 996P2 with an SDR to do simulcast. I don't use all of the features I have on my P2 now. Just add the SDR (and maybe a bit more room for programming more sites/systems).

forums.radioreference.com

SDS100/SDS200: - Proprietary Battery Packs

I've finally resigned myself to not getting the SDS-100, in part due to my battery needs for a handheld and this battery clip cover circus. I think I might, just maybe, buy the SDS-200 - no proprietorial batteries and no lame clip. We might be able to pick up eastern Maricopa SO traffic off Ord...

forums.radioreference.com

sds 100 battery options

Was just wondering if any addition battery options have been discussed? I do understand ill be getting a little bit bigger battery in the mail around August. But what i would like to do is purchase 3-4 more battery packs and have a stand alone charger or 2 for them so i dont have the charge...

forums.radioreference.com

 

[RFI-EMI-GUY]

AA batteries have a high effective series resistance (ESR) and may not perform as well with high current draw. Test the idea first with a mockup.