Q: How do I get the most out of my battery?

A: Don't overcharge! Follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Remove from the charger after completely charged. Try to use your battery until the "low battery" signal occurs. Recharge immediately after you get the "low signal" warning.

Q: How far can I talk on my radios?

A: Range is based on your antenna height NOT on the power of the radios. Geographic location greatly affects the range.

• Portable to Portable up to 3 miles
• Portable to 300 foot tower up to 25 miles
• Mobile to Mobile up to 10 miles
• Mobile to 100 foot base up to 20 miles
  
  
  • Calculations are estimates.
  • *Not to be used to design a system*

Q: What do I need to know about my battery?

A:It is common practice that manufacturers test their products under ideal circumstances, using perfect equipment, a new battery and moderate operating temperatures. This leaves a user to wonder why their unit is an exception to the rule when these optimistic run time specifications can never be achieved.

The largest energy loss occurs in the first 24 hours after charge. As a rule of thumb, a nickel- based battery discharges 10 to 15 percent of its capacity in the first 24 hours after charge, followed by 10 to 15 percent every month thereafter.

Self-Discharge on all battery chemistries increases at higher temperatures. Typically, the rate doubles with every 10 degree centigrade (18 degree farenheit). Large energy losses occur if a battery is left in a hot vehicle. Problems arise if the stored energy is lost during the course of the day through self-discharge rather than actual use. This phenomenon is quite common on older packs.

The self-discharge of a battery increases with age and usage. for example, a NiMH battery is good for 300 to 400 cycles, whereas a NiCd adequately performs over 1,000 cycles before high self-discharge renders the battery unserviceable.