I know this may be old hat to many of you but I just wanted to share my
latest joy here. For several years I have typically used either
available AC outlets and extension cords or small 18aH batteries for
all of my scoping needs. Of course a small battery precludes the use of
a laptop and dew heater so I always felt limited somehow.

I recently found 115aH deep cycle marine batteries on sale at Wal-Mart
and decided to take the plunge. I built a power distribution box which
houses my inverter, 12V outlet bar and LX200 AC-DC connverter. Put a V
meter on it to keep track of the battery. Man does this thing kick
butt! It's (the battery) massive and quite heavy but I shore do luv it!
I tinkered around with it quite a bit this week in anticipation of the
great skies and upcoming Astronomer Night at our local observing site.
I hooked up the laptop, dew heater, scope and even GPS unit. Ran them
all together for an hour or so while slewing around willy-nilly at a
slew rate of 8.

Afterwards I hooked the battery up to the automatic charger and in less
than 20 minutes it was already full again. I had barely touched it with
an hour of heavy use. Granted, the charger starts out with higher
current and diminishes as the battery achieves charge, but still...

I love this thing. I find myself sitting in the garage (or GA-rage
short 'A' for your Brits) just looking at my setup. I absolutely
cannot wait for tonight. Everyone will be quite intimidated to be
sure. No one would dare challenge my supremacy on the field.

Thanks for listening.
-Al A.
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