Something unimaginable just a couple of weeks ago is reality today. Apparently, there’s a company which believes a more efficient use of its time, is trolling my work on off grid portable power. I would have thought a more efficient use of its time would include developing better tools for field radio operators.
Amateur radio has its roots in bespoke building. Of course we should also support companies who make products meeting our requirements, and we very often do. Unfortunately, portable power for amateur radio field communications is constantly playing catch-up. Operators are searching for safer, more energy-dense battery chemistries, simple off-grid charging with integrated RF quiet charge controllers, high-current draw on relatively small Ah packs, … These obscure requirements are definately a design challenge, but that’s why we bespoke build!
There is absolutely zero chance I’ll stop producing these off-grid portable power tutorials!
Bespoke building design strategy
Bespoke building for functionality only considers the requirements. It doesn’t care how much something costs, or how difficult it is to build, it only solves a problem! Clever manufacturers often look at bespoke solutions, reengineering them into something which can be mass-produced. These two camps actually need each other.
So, here’s the playlist for the Portable Off-Grid Power for Ham Radio series:
Upcoming videos/projects in the series
- PowerFilm 120w FM16-7200
- DIY 35A DC Head unit
- DIY 40Ah LiFePO4 solar generator
- …
Bespoke battery building is not a crime! In fact, we would not have the off-grid capabilities for field comms we have now, without the marriage of commercial products and bespoke projects. With that said, one might find collaboration with the blog and channel on projects, a more profitable use of time.
73
Julian oh8stn
