The transponder would be the last thing I turn off, no matter where I was.

Mike Schumann

"Marc Ramsey" wrote in message
m...
Robert Backer wrote:
I just don't buy this power argument. My panel includes 302, Ipaq,
becker transponder (with encoder)and becker radio all of which run for at
least 6 hours on a single 8.5 ah powersonic battery (exactly the same
dimensions as the typical 7 ah battery). I also carry a backup 8.5 ah
battery which I have never had to switch to.

You don't have to buy it, but there are a lot of variables involved,
including the precise mix of equipment (in particular, the current draw of
the encoder at altitude), frequency of interrogation, sensitivity of the
radio to marginal voltage, whether the PDA is charging, age and
temperature of the battery, etc.

I have a transponder and a single 12 ah battery (and currently no room for
another, or for two 7/8.5 ah batteries), usually I can count on around 5
hours before I start losing the radio. Yes, things would be better with a
backup battery, and before Kinsell comes out of the woodwork, yes I could
go longer with a 14V system. But, I fly with the electrical system I
have, not the one I might want, so the transponder usually goes off in the
boonies...

Marc