Batteries and Power for Portable Operation

Power Options

Your radio needs DC power. Here are your options and what to know about each.

Handheld Battery Packs

Most handhelds use lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs. Key facts:

• Typical capacity: 1500-3200 mAh
• At 5W transmit, expect 4-8 hours of moderate use (listening mostly, occasional transmit)
• Heavy transmitting drains batteries fast — carrying a spare is wise
• Many handhelds can use an AA battery case as a backup — heavier but easily replaced in the field

13.8V Power Supplies (Home Use)

Mobile and base station radios need 13.8V DC. Two types:

• Linear supply: Heavy, simple, very clean (no RF noise). Traditional choice for HF.
• Switch-mode supply: Lighter, more efficient, but can create RF noise. Modern designs are usually fine, but cheap ones can interfere with HF reception.

Sizing: Check your radio's manual for maximum current draw. A 10W HF radio might draw 4-5 amps on transmit. Get a supply rated for at least 20% more than the maximum draw.

Portable Power — SOTA and Field Days

For portable HF operation, popular options include:

• Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries: 12.8V nominal — perfect for radios expecting 13.8V. Safe, lightweight, long-lasting. A 4.5 Ah LiFePO4 battery can power a 10W HF radio for hours.
• Sealed lead-acid (SLA): Cheap but heavy. Fine for the car boot, not great for carrying up a mountain.
• USB power banks: Some QRP radios can run from USB-C PD power banks — extremely lightweight for portable operation.