Humminbird Side Imaging Forums
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: FuzzyGrub on November 19, 2010, 06:35:41 AM
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I think it would be nice to compile users experience with SLA batteries and brands.
Battery: 6V 5aH, Battery Mart Brand
A pair runs my 798 for about 4 hours before shutdown. The 2nd pair was the next 4 hours of fishing. ;)
I have had them about 2-3 years, with only a couple of dozen cycles, at most. I lost one battery after inadvertantly leaving discharged for a month.
I also have a used CS3 12V 7.2aH I use in the kayak, but haven't gone to the point of a shutdown discharge. My guess is it would last close to 6 hours.
My portable case size limits me on choices. I can convert to two 12V 5ah, which should get me 8 hours with one switch over. Slight weight savings, but no need for 2nd container of batteries. I would like to hear about brands that have gone through a good many cycles and still holding up.
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Fuzzy, we use motorcycle batteries. They are small (as compared to a vehicle battery) and provide the needed amperage. They last years. Of course you want to use the sealed type. They should be stored and used with the terminals oriented as they would be in the bike.
We keep them on a trickle charger so they are always full. Trickle chargers , usually 1 amp output, recharge the battery and then stop the charging cycle unless the battery drops below a preset value.
Motorcycle batteries are reliable if purchased thru a cycle dealer.
There are several brands but if the motorcycle guys are happy so are we.
Chuck
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I have used a motorcycle battery in the past. Worked well, and lasted a long time. It was a standard LA w/vents, so had to make sure it was fastened upright. I had it in a plastic container and a cord to plug into the ff base.
Are new motorcycle batteries SLA, Gel, or just maintenance free (sealed). The latter still requires being upright in a certain position so the plates are not exposed to air, correct???
I still have, and occasionally use, the patch cord to tie into a 12V battery. Most of the time, thats when a trolling motor is present. Also have a cigerette lighter adapter. The extra battery and cord does become a pain for some uses. I wouldn't think they make any motorcycle batteries as small as I need to fit the current case. Max size is 2.75"W X 4"L X 4.5"H
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Here is a list of one company's SLA battery inventory. For the longest use time, just get the largest Ahr capacity you have room for.
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The largest pair of 12V I can fit is the 5aH. The price range, depending on brand for the same form, fit, function goes from $12 to $30. Not sure what the extra $ buys you (maybe additional charge cycles?), if anything, so was looking for some user input. They also seem to play some games with the specs. I have found numerous ones listed at 5aH, but a close-up of the battery shows it labeled at 4.5aH.