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AIR 403 Land Manual Document #0049 REV D
SOUTHWEST WINDPOWER 8/20/2001 42
Batteries
#28 What kind of batteries should I use with my AIR?
Only batteries intended for power system applications should be used. This means
“deep cycle” type batteries, and not the Marine deep cycle type as these are not
intended for the same application. Typically “true” deep-cycle batteries will be rated
in amp-hours and have some indication of the number of charge-discharge cycles
that are available. Beware of the dubious claims of “deep-cycle” claimed by the
manufacturers of inexpensive batteries.
#29 Why shouldn’t I use automotive batteries in my DC system?
Automotive batteries are meant to discharge a large amount of current in a very brief
time. The lead plates are thinner and often porous to allow rapid discharge. They will
also wear faster and are not intended to be discharged far below their normal
voltage. True deep cycle batteries are intended for more moderate loading and
deeper discharge, and are made with thicker, longer lasting plates. The casing and
construction of batteries intended for renewable energy systems is typically much
tougher and of higher quality than automotive batteries.
#30 Why do you recommend a 400 Amp-hour or greater battery bank?
Very small battery systems have a high resistance value that causes a surface
voltage increase at the batteries. If the battery voltage is already high, and high
current is on the line, then the internal regulator on the 403 may "think" the batteries
are fully charged and will regulate prematurely.
#31 Is lightning protection necessary?
Lightning protection is ALWAYS a good idea when erecting a metal tower. The Delta
Lightning Arrestor (model LA 301-DC) is widely used in outdoor power and antenna
applications. While this is still no guarantee that Mother Nature wont find a way,
these arrestors are not very expensive and may save some very expensive
equipment.
Radio Interference
#32 What effect does radio interference have on my AIR 403?
The internal circuitry of the AIR is shielded and filtered to prevent radio interference,
and has been tested to insure electro-magnetic compatibility.
#33 What effect does my AIR have on radio transmissions?
The AIR normally does not affect radio transmitters. Care should be taken, however,
to route power lines from the AIR away from the power and antenna lines of a radio
transmitter. An old ham radio operator’s trick is to twist positive and negative wires
together to provide an even distribution of EMF noise across both wires, which serves
to cancel out the electrical noise created. This technique can be used on the AIR
power lines, on the radio’s power lines, and on transmission wires. Transmission
lines should always be kept as far from power lines as is practically possible. Proper
grounding of the AIR and other system components must also be observed.
