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Old September 21st 08, 05:59 PM posted to rec.radio.amateur.equipment
JB[_3_] JB[_3_] is offline
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First recorded activity by RadioBanter: Apr 2008
Posts: 543
Default Using a 230V AC to 13.8V DC in the USA

It has been stated elsewhere in documentation not to hook a battery on the
output for backup.- Hide quoted text -


It is potentially hazardous to float a battery on just any power supply
output. Several issues can and DO arise with ALL power supplies.

1. May interfere with regulation.
2. May exceed the design limits for overvoltage protection circuits.
3. May exceed the design limits for overcurrent protection circuits.
4. May cause damage to the power supply or excessive current drain on the
battery system when the power supply is not energized.
5. Voltage may not be set for proper charge/float operation resulting in
premature failure of battery.
6. Other issues may arise from the modular nature of a complex system
that can be too easily changed or modified without proper consideration,
I.E. simply by hooking up another piece of gear, adding a wire or even
adding
a fuse holder that isn't designed to be used in an explosive and corrosive
environment.
7. Battery float issues not considered or investigated in design, prototype,
product development and marketing phases.
Or fully considered in corporate risk management and policy development,
I.E. it is much safer and simpler to just say no rather than have to deal
with explaining how to do it.

In order to float a battery on a supply, you need to either buy a supply
designed for it or you need to redesign what you use.

There are also other serious potential hazards when dealing with batteries
that need to be addressed.

1. Fire hazard
2. Hazardous Gas and Vapor handling, including burning insulation.
3. Acid containment issues
4. Explosion hazard
5. Mandatory skillful regular maintenance in order to minimize and avert
disaster as well as maximize life expectancy.

As I stated, mine has been modified (redesigned) for battery float
operation. To do this, you need years of training, experience and the
ability to project that knowledge into successful practice. If you have an
ongoing professional need for this please get in touch with me at:
http://infotech.awardspace.com/

Otherwise, DO NOT PROCEED! Because of various risks to Life,
Health and property of yourself AND OTHERS!