PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-557
PS, The Preventative Maintenance Monthly
ISSUE 557
APRIL 1999
PS 557
51
APR 99
PS 557
50
AA Alkaline
For most training exercises and everyday use, cheap AA alka-
line batteries are the way to go.
The problem is they don’t last long—about four hours of
tracking with software version 613-9854-002 and eight hours
with version 613-9544-007. They’re also not good for cold-
weather operations, because freezing temperatures reduce their
performance.
To use AAs you need a battery holder, NSN 6160-01-385-
4358. It holds eight AA batteries. The holder fits into the power
battery compartment.
AA Lithium
With the same battery holder, you can also use AA lithium batteries.
Lithiums using software version 613-9854-002 last about seven hours. Those
using version 613-9544-007 last about 13 hours.
The drawback to lithium batteries is the higher cost.
Nickel Cadmium
The nickel cadmium (NiCad) battery, NSN 6140-01-400-2902,
is a good choice for a vehicle-mounted PLGR that is rarely re-
moved for hand-held operation. When the PLGR’s in the mount,
the NiCad is charged by vehicle power.
Under tracking conditions, the NiCad lasts about 2
1
/
2
hours
with software version 613-9854-002. With version 613-9544-007,
you should get five hours before it needs recharging.
The NiCad is heavier than the other batteries and much more
expensive.
BA-5800
The lithium battery lasts much longer than the others, from 10–
15 hours when you’re using software version 613-9854-002. If
you’re using software version 613-9544-007, you should get 20–
25 hours of use. This is important for continuous tracking.
Lithium also gives you an even power output until it dies. The
PLGR’s operation won’t be diminished by a weak battery.
Lithium batteries also have a longer shelf life and withstand
heat and cold better than other batteries. The downside is its high
cost and special disposal requirements.
GPS. . .
hen it comes to powering your AN/PSN-11 precision lightweight global
positioning system receiver (PLGR), you have four battery options:
Battery
NSN
Unit of Issue
Unit Cost
BA-5800 lithium
1
$18.36
AA alkaline
24
$3.63
AA lithium
1
$2.65
Nickel cadmium
1
$77.50
The alkaline
is cheap
The lithium
is expensive
no,
i'm
better
!
pick
me
!
try
us
!
hmmm,
my
mission
will determine
my
choice
.
pick
me
!
The Ni-Cad is
rechargeable
The BA-5800
is long-lasting
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