I built 6 battery boxes for friends and family using modified Minn Kota battery boxes and 100 amp hour ToBattery lifep04 batteries that come shrink wrapped with attached BMS and without battery cases. These are very compact batteries! The 100 amp hour batteries are small enough to fit 2 of them inside your battery box with foam padding! ToBattery also makes a slightly taller and wider 200 amp hour battery which I installed in my personal Minn Kota box. Imagine having 200 amp hours capacity in that box! The other thing I do is to add a BesTek 300 watt inverter on top of the box that gets attached with Velcro strips so that it can be removed for use in the van if needed. I swap out the 10 amp circuit breaker for a 20 amp unit, add bigger wires, retain the 60 amp side terminals. The box gets a LED trouble light, battery isolation switch, USB dual port outlet, standard lighter outlet, and voltmeter. I buy Chinese voltmeters 6 at a time and maybe 2 will read accurately! The other thing I do is to add removable lugs for the side terminals so that jumper cables can be used to recharge the battery somewhat if its raining, no solar charging is available, and I need another 50 amp hours or so stuffed into the battery from the van's alternator. I started building these battery boxes in 2017 to run CPAP units so my friends could sleep thru the night after wildfires caused our outages. PORTS!
That is the exact box I use. I keep two 12V 24Ah batteries in it along with a LOT of Anderson Powerpole cables -- lots of room. The batteries are: TalentCell 12V 24Ah LiFePO4 Battery Pack LF4040, 12.8V 288Wh Deep Cycle Rechargeable Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery I got those because I like the battery check button on them. And, yes, I heard PORTS!
Ports - you need to add a shunt to get correct voltage of lifepo4 battery. They run at nearly full voltage until they are dead. I like the Victron Bluetooth version.
I have had great success with the Renogy $85 shunt and battery meter. I must have 6 or more on my projects. I have the Victron unit but for some reason its Bluetooth does not have the power to send to my cell phone from the garage to the house like the Renogy units will. I now use $45 Amazon ''pet cameras'' to view the Renogy battery display from anywhere I get cell phone reception. The heck with Bluetooth! Regardless....running a Lifep04 battery without a shunt type battery State of Charge meter is like driving a car with a broken gas gauge. I make up copper lugs to attach to my battery boxes such that in an emergency, I can use jumper cables from my running van to put some charge back into the battery pack. It's not ideal but I tried it and it works.
I love all those PORTS and the different options these boxes have. To be honest, I didn't even know how far these things have come. I remember all the old school ones you can put on a boat, but nothing like these. Thanks for another great video, sir!!!
You can never have too many ports. I currently have the Gigaparts Explorer Box(I got it because of your video) with Buddipole Powermini 2 solar charge controller, a Eco-Worthy 20ah Batttery and Harbor Freight Thunderbolt 100w solar panel brief case. Everything works great together. I am looking into upgrading my knowledge and skills with powerpoles and 12v appliances and gadgets to start tent camping with ham radio this spring. I like the battery box from amazon and will consider it into my collection.
Great video! I make my own boxes because no one puts more that 1 12 volt cig plug on them. The reason I need more that one is because I have 2 live bait coolers on my boat and that is how they are wired! I would love to be able to purchase just the empty boxes in your video!
When I found the bigger setup I bought two n now I can link my batteries together at the same time hooked up to solar panels and two inverters all together and theres different types of sizes of batteries so some might not fit, I use 12.8v 100a lithium LiFeP04 in both, love it n worth getting, 808 back out
Word of the video - Ports! Thanks for the video, but I was hoping to get more information on this battery box, which I just ordered on Amazon. I plan to put an old car battery in it, and if this works, buy another box and have a dual setup for my RV. Does it have a charge controller for solar, and how do you charge the battery (I assume with the outside connectors)? Are the Anderson plugs for energy output or can they be used as inputs to charge the battery as well? Sorry if the questions are dumb, and I probably should have waited to get my box, but I wanted to acknowledge your video! Cheers
I also purchased a similar Box from Napa on sale. I added fuses and an AOLithium 100 ah battery. I'm a little dissatisfied with the buckle on the strap as it failed when I 1st picked up my battery Box with my battery inside. I am still working on a solution for a strap I can trust. Other than that I'm very satisfied so far. I think I will keep my PORTS unchanged for now.
Which cables did you fuse??I just picked my Maxi Trac box from NAPA today, on sale for about $45. Had to order it. I’m no expert at all, but I’m thinking since the USB and 12v port are on the 16 amp breaker, I might just fuse the Anderson lines . They will be used for DC to DC charging, eventually fridge and solar charging, although I might just add a fused SAE line to match my Renogy, or an adaptor for the Andersons. Right now it’s primarily for using my CPap for sleeping in my truck with camper shell, charge back up with solar until I get power run to the bed. Or, I could just inline fuse whatever device I have ….Looking to find a budget 100aH LifePo, not worried much about heating in South Texas. I can always add a pad . I avoid cold .
I have built a HAM Radio battery box and it is pricey to buy all the components and a good box. But it was a good learning experience as I now want to build a 2.0 version. PORTS
i got the same box from napa on sale last month. it is still available for 15% off on the site. i do like the ports on the smaller box though. and will be looking into getting one of those for my smaller miadi battery possibly, but if you want to do some wiring you can fit 4 of the miady 20amp hour batteries in the bigger box. i like the idea of putting more power pole ports in it or adding the smaller power poles to the large ones. making it more useable for the ham users.
For me, when it comes to ports, its all about the powerpoles. A usb or 2 are useful, but they can easily be provided by an attachment plugged into a powerpole. Bonus if the box is big enough to store that inside if not in use.
Found one for you with your fav plugs. ATEM POWER Battery Box 12V - with USB/DC Port/CIG Socket/Anderson Plug/Voltage Indicator, Solar Generator Power Charging for RV Camper
I purchased one of these battery box and received it today. The first thing I noticed some wires were disconnected. Second there were no 50 amp fuses for the Anderson connector. Looked at the photo on Amazon it showed fuses. Return to Amazon hope to get replacement by Sunday. Hope it has the fuses
I am using the Explorer box based on the video you did on it. It's got all the "PORTS" I need and holds my 30ah Bioenno battery. I also plan to add solar with a charge controller added inside. Take care!!
Nice Ports Jason! The 75-amp Anderson connectors work best for using a DC-DC converter to charge LIFEPO4 batteries from the truck to the travel trailer as quick disconnects, works great! In ham radio, you would be QRO+ if those fuses were not just 35-amps. I have the Explorer box and have 12-AH of LIFEPO4 batteries Plus the 100-watt solar panel you recommended in a recent video, works GREAT for QRP and I am QRPppppp with my Tuna Tin Transmitters. The Explorer is overkill, but I also bring out my WA3RNC TR-35 when I feel like some 8W QRO, LOL. The Explorer box was great and would have been better if they made it group 31 like your featured box here. Cheers es 72, Dave - KU9L
The smaller box has plenty ports. I have the Explorer ZXP-EXP-PBB box with a LIPO PO4 battery. Mine doesn't have a Car Jack in the corner like yours. It has 2 sets of Anderson plugs. Otherwise it is the same as yours. I use this to power the 705 when we lose power. Thanks for another great video.
Any port(s) in a storm! I built my own battery box. I have a RigRunner 4005 for multiple powerpole options, additional powerpoles for radio input and solar panel charging (with built in solar charge controller), dual usb, 12v (for utilizing an inverter for AC) and mini LEDs on 3 sides. Everything is fused and switched. It's overengineered, and built in a Pelican case. It cost me well over what either of yours did, and it's not for everyone, but it has everything I need, and nothing I don't need.
Yes I like lots of "Ports" I built a small battery box, using a 12 volt, 6 amp Bioenno battery, but then all I run is HT's in the field. I now have a Grecell T300 Solar Charger, and the 100 watt solar panel that goes with it. Its got one 110/120 plug, with a full sine wave inverter. Three USB 3.0 and one USB C. A 12 volt plug and two 5521 plugs, that I picked up cables that end with a 12 volt plugs. So I can add more USB if I need too. It is a tad heavy, but it has the inverter and the solar charger built in. So its all good. Have a good one.
I’m using the Gigaparts orange Megabox with a Bioenno 30AH right now. Plenty of PORTS for me, but, I’ve also always got plenty of typical smaller batteries around for the phone, tablets etc. I also love my rechargeable electric hand warmers which can also charge the phone in a pinch.
in my box i built i do not have any usb ports. i have cigarettes ports instead and if i need a usb i just put a usb adapter into the cig port. i saw a guy do that on his box it seamed pretty smart.
Great PORTS... 🙂 Well connections would I like (USB A QC 3.0, USB C, USB A 1.5A, dual Anderson Power Poles and a direct connection for my Bluetti 200W solar panel....
Ports. I use a Powerwerx battery box, the smaller one with a 35 AH AGM battery (plan to swap out for 21 to 30 AH Lifepo4) and a DIY 18AH Lifepo4 made from a 30 cal ammo box from Harbor Freight. I built it about 2 years ago and it cost me around $150. The battery pack being the largest cost, around $65 from Aliexpress.
Larger cables prevents voltage drop. If you replace the cables on the back of Chinese radio's with thicker cables you can get more wattage out of the radio.
Ports. I'm still trying to figure it out. Not sure if I should get the battery first then try to fine a box or get a box and try to fine a battery. USB and power poles . Seem to be the standard so that's what I probably would like on my battery box
Anderson connectors come in different colors. BUT... they do not interchange! Yellow fits only Yellow, gray to gray, red to red, etc. I found this out the hard way. And the Chinese knockoff ''Anderson type'' don't have quality control. The little spring spades inside the plastic housing are often not long enough to push the contact out far enough for proper engagement when you plug in the other half of the connector. I went through a bunch of the knock off connectors that disengage and snap apart if they are bumped. I ALWAYS jam the spring spades forward when assembling a connector and melt the plastic with a soldering iron to keep the spade locked in place. That way, the contacts engage properly, amps flow as designed (no overheated connectors), and you really have to grip and wiggle the connectors to disengage them.
Yes you can make it cheaper yourself, all sourced from Amazon & Harbor freight. In all with the 18AH LIPO4 battery cost me just a little over $100. The part that was enjoyable was building it myself.
That Explorer box looks like a good match for my Bioenno 20AH battery. I like the PORTS on the box over the larger one. More useful. I also have no need for the "cigarette lighter" socket either. Great video. Thanks KJ6DQ
The accessory plug sections are powered through the rocker switch... but since it has "reset" written on it, it's probably actually a 16A circuit breaker.
Ports - While I agree that to build either battery box would be almost just as expensive when compared to buying them, I am a DIY guy and so I will be constructing my own battery box when I have the necessary components. I think either option would be a winner, but I really like K8MRD's box and if I were to buy one pre-made, I would purchase from him.
I got the GP battery box and 24ah battery from Santa. I charged the battery that day put it in the box now it says 87% remaining that is a lot of discharge for a lithium battery in 12 days. The switch has been off the whole time. I’ll keep an eye on it maybe it needs to cycle a few times. I need to ham harder probably.🤣
Oh man Dem Ports! Yeah i made one of these and modified it a bit. Went your route with the power poles but i replaced the volt meter with a qc3/2x usb-c socket. I have a renogy battery monitor on it as well for accurate readings (major overkill). I have my miady 100ah lifepo4 battery in it right now and it's just the perfect size. I'll post photos in the discord
Ports!! I am going to build a "primitive" box using either a 275AMP lawnmower battery or a 1000 amp car battery I salvaged from a car that was totaled by a hit and run driver. It was my primary vehicle. The box I have in mind will have room for an EFHW HF antenna for field use. If I can work it out, there will be a mount for a QRP radio. If I can see how to build a line of boxes, I may get into the high dollar HAM radio accessory line. Yes, I can be delusional from time to time.
I just checked the prices on this box, Napa has one for $72.99 locally, called Max Trac has 2 regular usb ports, Autodunk may be better depending on what type of usb ports you need, Amazon $89.97 called All Top with 2 regular usb ports, get it from napa. Autodunk on amazon is $84.99 with 1 QC usb and usb c port, May be the best choice depending on usb ports needed. all look identical. Nice box, definitely useful, but the Dr prepare 100 ah battery with the 12-volt module may be better since it has a 100-watt charge controller in it.
Port this!!!!! :)) Good timing on the video - just bought a 50ah lifpo that doesn't fit in my old homemade simple box with anderson PP's, meter and switch. The new batt is too tall so I'm looking at converting the old box to new box reusing my power poles and stuff. Looking at "NOCO Snap-Top HM306BKS Battery Box, 6V Outdoor Waterproof Battery Box" or the "Camco Heavy Duty Battery Box with Straps and Hardware - Group 24" on Amazon. I have the parts so I didn't want to buy the $80 box.
I have several AGM batteries with 45A power pole connectors to run my QRP rigs and ac inverter for the fridge. I'm in the process of selecting boxes and matching lithium batteries. I don't smoke. No need for a cigarette lighter port. I prefer dual 45A Anderson power pole. 73 DE WA4OSH
The "Ports" I want on my battery box are of course powerpoles, with specially colored (yellow positive/black negative) for my solar panels. I also want a cigarette lighter so I can plug in my laptop power adapter that steps up voltage. I built one of these boxes back at the beginning of COVID, but I wish that I had put my solar charge controller in the box and put a shunted meter like Mike has on Big Geek.
USB ports. Lots. And powerpoles for ham stuff, though I wish hams would change to XT60s. I'm lousy with them from playing with drones, and they have the advantage of only plugging in one way, so you can connect them in the dark and not worry about reverse polarity.
@@HamRadio2 thanks for that. I've never actually attempted to plug my powerpoles in backwards; I'd just heard that you could. I feel better about them now.
Very nice box. It would be nice if they made an LED light with a cigarette lighter plug for a base where it could just plug in without wiring and be able to swivel. They do have some pretty nice corded ones.
That's a really big battery box. Would probably be good for QRO work. My battery box is just a standard orange waterproof "ammo can" with a 12aH Bioenno battery and all of my FT-897D accessories (antennas, microphone, DigiRig, etc.). I haven't wired any ports but may do that this winter to add some USB charging capabilities. Oh and before I forget PORTS.
I was going to DIY a box until I saw the sub $50 NAPA deal a few weeks ago and grabbed one. I plan to add the power poles like Ham Radio 2.0 plans to. Since it can contain a rather large battery I’d like to use a provided connection or add one for Solar charging. Anyone do this yet? What’s the easiest way?
Question... I'm looking to use this setup with a 100ah LiFePO4 to run my fridge full-time. (Dometic CFX3 35) What connector do I need to run my fridge to it? I plan to start with charging it off the 12v of my Tacoma on those terminals but eventually run a Hood-Mounted Solar panel to power it full-time instead. Thoughts on this working for that?
Just curious when hooking a solar panel to the Anderson connections there's no charge controller in the box are you using a solar panel with a built-in charge controller?
The More Ports the better I say, you know "Ports" "PORTS", haha. Anderson Power Pole stuff has gotten pretty expensive, especially the accessory port type stuff. Must be a lot of people buying them. Thanks for the video. 73.
I don’t care for the large Amazon box because it just doesn’t have enough ports. I want to build my own version so it has the amount of ports and connections that I want to have. Should be a fairly easy and fun project. 73s WB5NOE
@@HamRadio2 You ever see those 12v heated lunchboxes and stuff like that they sell at truck stops? I put one on there for stuff like that too. I wasn't hurting for space so I figured why not. It might be handy in the deer stand.
Im.kind of new to color and battery setup I have a question on box. Why do you need 2 charging ports on top of box in my thinking folks only to one port to charge? I think I'm miss understanding something
Ports- Depends on how much you want to run at the same time. I can help but wonder if you could get 2 of the 40 amp hour batteries in the small box. Keep up the great videos.
Adapt out to a cigarette plug from power pole connector but not on the PS -- multiple power pole connectors up to 45 amp should cover all needs if the 45's are wired to 12 gauge -- change out one of the larger power pole connectors for more smaller power pole connections I can see a need for one of those for maybe connecting to another battery or for fast charging from a vehicle or maybe jump start another vehicle -- fuse everything going to the outside of the box not just to the ring terminals -- maybe add another high powered USB connection -- I would not have the ring terminals on my box but then might be useful can always remove the fuse for safety sake
For $90 (at Amazon) I don’t want to have to add standard (15/30/45 amp) powerpoles or fuses to ground. I have my OH8STN inspired solar generator that has _everything_ I want/need since I did all of the work myself. 🤷♂️
It's odd that you are fine with building an entire solar generator but are adverse to adding a couple of powerpole ports. But to each his own. That is the great thing about Ham Radio - multiple choices to do whatever you wish!
@@HamRadio2 Well if I’m spending the money I may as well have exactly what I want instead of having to buy & modify something already built for me. Not fusing those external connections is poor design!
I built 6 battery boxes for friends and family using modified Minn Kota battery boxes and 100 amp hour ToBattery lifep04 batteries that come shrink wrapped with attached BMS and without battery cases. These are very compact batteries! The 100 amp hour batteries are small enough to fit 2 of them inside your battery box with foam padding! ToBattery also makes a slightly taller and wider 200 amp hour battery which I installed in my personal Minn Kota box.
Imagine having 200 amp hours capacity in that box! The other thing I do is to add a BesTek 300 watt inverter on top of the box that gets attached with Velcro strips so that it can be removed for use in the van if needed. I swap out the 10 amp circuit breaker for a 20 amp unit, add bigger wires, retain the 60 amp side terminals. The box gets a LED trouble light, battery isolation switch, USB dual port outlet, standard lighter outlet, and voltmeter. I buy Chinese voltmeters 6 at a time and maybe 2 will read accurately!
The other thing I do is to add removable lugs for the side terminals so that jumper cables can be used to recharge the battery somewhat if its raining, no solar charging is available, and I need another 50 amp hours or so stuffed into the battery from the van's alternator. I started building these battery boxes in 2017 to run CPAP units so my friends could sleep thru the night after wildfires caused our outages. PORTS!
I just bought this with a 12v 100ah renogy battery. This is cheaper than a jackery for my truck frig. $300 all in parts.
That is the exact box I use. I keep two 12V 24Ah batteries in it along with a LOT of Anderson Powerpole cables -- lots of room. The batteries are:
TalentCell 12V 24Ah LiFePO4 Battery Pack LF4040, 12.8V 288Wh Deep Cycle Rechargeable Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
I got those because I like the battery check button on them. And, yes, I heard PORTS!
Thanks for sharing
Ports - you need to add a shunt to get correct voltage of lifepo4 battery. They run at nearly full voltage until they are dead. I like the Victron Bluetooth version.
I have had great success with the Renogy $85 shunt and battery meter. I must have 6 or more on my projects. I have the Victron unit but for some reason its Bluetooth does not have the power to send to my cell phone from the garage to the house like the Renogy units will. I now use $45 Amazon ''pet cameras'' to view the Renogy battery display from anywhere I get cell phone reception. The heck with Bluetooth! Regardless....running a Lifep04 battery without a shunt type battery State of Charge meter is like driving a car with a broken gas gauge. I make up copper lugs to attach to my battery boxes such that in an emergency, I can use jumper cables from my running van to put some charge back into the battery pack. It's not ideal but I tried it and it works.
I love all those PORTS and the different options these boxes have. To be honest, I didn't even know how far these things have come. I remember all the old school ones you can put on a boat, but nothing like these. Thanks for another great video, sir!!!
You can never have too many ports. I currently have the Gigaparts Explorer Box(I got it because of your video) with Buddipole Powermini 2 solar charge controller, a Eco-Worthy 20ah Batttery and Harbor Freight Thunderbolt 100w solar panel brief case. Everything works great together. I am looking into upgrading my knowledge and skills with powerpoles and 12v appliances and gadgets to start tent camping with ham radio this spring. I like the battery box from amazon and will consider it into my collection.
So you like the buddipole mini charge controller?
Is the eco worthy a lithium battery?
I currently don't have a battery box but I have a 36 amp hr Mighty Max gel battery. Works great but will definitely need to get a box sooner or later.
Great video! I make my own boxes because no one puts more that 1 12 volt cig plug on them. The reason I need more that one is because I have 2 live bait coolers on my boat and that is how they are wired! I would love to be able to purchase just the empty boxes in your video!
When I found the bigger setup I bought two n now I can link my batteries together at the same time hooked up to solar panels and two inverters all together and theres different types of sizes of batteries so some might not fit, I use 12.8v 100a lithium LiFeP04 in both, love it n worth getting, 808 back out
Word of the video - Ports! Thanks for the video, but I was hoping to get more information on this battery box, which I just ordered on Amazon. I plan to put an old car battery in it, and if this works, buy another box and have a dual setup for my RV. Does it have a charge controller for solar, and how do you charge the battery (I assume with the outside connectors)? Are the Anderson plugs for energy output or can they be used as inputs to charge the battery as well? Sorry if the questions are dumb, and I probably should have waited to get my box, but I wanted to acknowledge your video! Cheers
No charge controller
Yes you can charge with the APP connections, they are input and output.
I also purchased a similar Box from Napa on sale. I added fuses and an AOLithium 100 ah battery. I'm a little dissatisfied with the buckle on the strap as it failed when I 1st picked up my battery Box with my battery inside. I am still working on a solution for a strap I can trust. Other than that I'm very satisfied so far. I think I will keep my PORTS unchanged for now.
Turn the strap upside down, that is what I did. It holds pretty well that way. I also have a 100AH AOLithium battery that I am testing.
Which cables did you fuse??I just picked my Maxi Trac box from
NAPA today, on sale for about $45. Had to order it. I’m no expert at all, but I’m thinking since the USB and 12v port are on the 16 amp breaker, I might just fuse the Anderson lines . They will be used for DC to DC charging, eventually fridge and solar charging, although I might just add a fused SAE line to match my Renogy, or an adaptor for the Andersons. Right now it’s primarily for using my CPap for sleeping in my truck with camper shell, charge back up with solar until I get power run to the bed. Or, I could just inline fuse whatever device I have ….Looking to find a budget 100aH LifePo, not worried much about heating in South Texas. I can always add a pad . I avoid cold .
I have built a HAM Radio battery box and it is pricey to buy all the components and a good box.
But it was a good learning experience as I now want to build a 2.0 version.
PORTS
PORTS, I have a diy box with 2 12amp bioenno batteries. I just purchased a 100amp lipo4 and I'm going to build a box for the new battery.
i got the same box from napa on sale last month. it is still available for 15% off on the site. i do like the ports on the smaller box though. and will be looking into getting one of those for my smaller miadi battery possibly, but if you want to do some wiring you can fit 4 of the miady 20amp hour batteries in the bigger box. i like the idea of putting more power pole ports in it or adding the smaller power poles to the large ones. making it more useable for the ham users.
For me, when it comes to ports, its all about the powerpoles. A usb or 2 are useful, but they can easily be provided by an attachment plugged into a powerpole. Bonus if the box is big enough to store that inside if not in use.
Found one for you with your fav plugs.
ATEM POWER Battery Box 12V - with USB/DC Port/CIG Socket/Anderson Plug/Voltage Indicator, Solar Generator Power Charging for RV Camper
I purchased one of these battery box and received it today. The first thing I noticed some wires were disconnected. Second there were no 50 amp fuses for the Anderson connector. Looked at the photo on Amazon it showed fuses. Return to Amazon hope to get replacement by Sunday. Hope it has the fuses
Good luck
I'm just doing continuing research on battery boxes and DIY ideas for solar chargers with plenty of _ports_ .
I’m using the black Powerwerks box and 20a battery to power the “Ports” on top.
I am using the Explorer box based on the video you did on it. It's got all the "PORTS" I need and holds my 30ah Bioenno battery. I also plan to add solar with a charge controller added inside. Take care!!
That 30ah Bioenno is perfect for that box
@@HamRadio2 Yes sir!!!
Ports are important.. usb/usb-c, and one lighter style plus several power pole are what I have in my homebuilt toolbox style battery box ..
Nice Ports Jason! The 75-amp Anderson connectors work best for using a DC-DC converter to charge LIFEPO4 batteries from the truck to the travel trailer as quick disconnects, works great! In ham radio, you would be QRO+ if those fuses were not just 35-amps. I have the Explorer box and have 12-AH of LIFEPO4 batteries Plus the 100-watt solar panel you recommended in a recent video, works GREAT for QRP and I am QRPppppp with my Tuna Tin Transmitters. The Explorer is overkill, but I also bring out my WA3RNC TR-35 when I feel like some 8W QRO, LOL. The Explorer box was great and would have been better if they made it group 31 like your featured box here. Cheers es 72, Dave - KU9L
I have been using, for years, the battery and radio boxes from Hardened Power. Ports
I've always wanted to try one of those
The smaller box has plenty ports. I have the Explorer ZXP-EXP-PBB box with a LIPO PO4 battery. Mine doesn't have a Car Jack in the corner like yours. It has 2 sets of Anderson plugs. Otherwise it is the same as yours. I use this to power the 705 when we lose power. Thanks for another great video.
I've found several boxes that are very similar to this one. Thanks for commenting.
PORTS. I dont have a battery box yet, looking at ideas. Both boxes are great but the smaller one looks good to me.
Hi again…. Quick question…. Where do you connect a charger when it comes time to charge up the battery? Thanks in advance
So whats the best way of changing this box up? Ports!
Any port(s) in a storm!
I built my own battery box. I have a RigRunner 4005 for multiple powerpole options, additional powerpoles for radio input and solar panel charging (with built in solar charge controller), dual usb, 12v (for utilizing an inverter for AC) and mini LEDs on 3 sides. Everything is fused and switched. It's overengineered, and built in a Pelican case. It cost me well over what either of yours did, and it's not for everyone, but it has everything I need, and nothing I don't need.
Great idea. I'm thinking about doing the same
Yes I like lots of "Ports" I built a small battery box, using a 12 volt, 6 amp Bioenno battery, but then all I run is HT's in the field. I now have a Grecell T300 Solar Charger, and the 100 watt solar panel that goes with it. Its got one 110/120 plug, with a full sine wave inverter. Three USB 3.0 and one USB C. A 12 volt plug and two 5521 plugs, that I picked up cables that end with a 12 volt plugs. So I can add more USB if I need too. It is a tad heavy, but it has the inverter and the solar charger built in. So its all good. Have a good one.
Hi. Great video and demo. Question. What is the exact name and/size of plug that mates with the two 75 amp power pole plugs. Thanks in advance. Ron
I’m using the Gigaparts orange Megabox with a Bioenno 30AH right now. Plenty of PORTS for me, but, I’ve also always got plenty of typical smaller batteries around for the phone, tablets etc. I also love my rechargeable electric hand warmers which can also charge the phone in a pinch.
in my box i built i do not have any usb ports. i have cigarettes ports instead and if i need a usb i just put a usb adapter into the cig port. i saw a guy do that on his box it seamed pretty smart.
That certainly works, nothing wrong with doing that.
Ports…new to the hobby. You put out great info for us new hams. Enjoy every video.
Thanks!
I think there need to be used the Peltier elements in case off solar panels, battery.
I always love seeing a good battery box.
Thanks Dennis!
Great PORTS... 🙂 Well connections would I like (USB A QC 3.0, USB C, USB A 1.5A, dual Anderson Power Poles and a direct connection for my Bluetti 200W solar panel....
Ports. I use a Powerwerx battery box, the smaller one with a 35 AH AGM battery (plan to swap out for 21 to 30 AH Lifepo4) and a DIY 18AH Lifepo4 made from a 30 cal ammo box from Harbor Freight. I built it about 2 years ago and it cost me around $150. The battery pack being the largest cost, around $65 from Aliexpress.
Larger cables prevents voltage drop. If you replace the cables on the back of Chinese radio's with thicker cables you can get more wattage out of the radio.
Im wanting to make a battery box, and seeing all the variations of PORTS is a help trying to decide what i want and need out of my box.
Yep
Ports. I'm still trying to figure it out. Not sure if I should get the battery first then try to fine a box or get a box and try to fine a battery. USB and power poles . Seem to be the standard so that's what I probably would like on my battery box
Ports. I have the GigaParts box with a 30 amp battery in it. I’ve had to modify it a bit but I do like it.
i need to see about getting the anderson PORTS, just getting into the hobby..
Anderson connectors come in different colors. BUT... they do not interchange! Yellow fits only Yellow, gray to gray, red to red, etc. I found this out the hard way.
And the Chinese knockoff ''Anderson type'' don't have quality control. The little spring spades inside the plastic housing are often not long enough to push the contact out far enough for proper engagement when you plug in the other half of the connector. I went through a bunch of the knock off connectors that disengage and snap apart if they are bumped.
I ALWAYS jam the spring spades forward when assembling a connector and melt the plastic with a soldering iron to keep the spade locked in place. That way, the contacts engage properly, amps flow as designed
(no overheated connectors), and you really have to grip and wiggle the connectors to disengage them.
Yes you can make it cheaper yourself, all sourced from Amazon & Harbor freight. In all with the 18AH LIPO4 battery cost me just a little over $100. The part that was enjoyable was building it myself.
03:18 Thats a "Power delivery" port. Thats why its labeled "PD"
Interested in your friends set up! Has he come out with the boxes for sale yet?
That Explorer box looks like a good match for my Bioenno 20AH battery. I like the PORTS on the box over the larger one. More useful. I also have no need for the "cigarette lighter" socket either. Great video. Thanks KJ6DQ
When Walmart closes out 12V game feeder batteries in the spring, I buy and install in my boxes.
The accessory plug sections are powered through the rocker switch... but since it has "reset" written on it, it's probably actually a 16A circuit breaker.
That’s what is in my NAPA /Maxi Trac version. I just picked up. Looks identical except the gray connectors aren’t fused
16 amp breaker switch
Ports - While I agree that to build either battery box would be almost just as expensive when compared to buying them, I am a DIY guy and so I will be constructing my own battery box when I have the necessary components. I think either option would be a winner, but I really like K8MRD's box and if I were to buy one pre-made, I would purchase from him.
His boxes are nice. He's building me one
I got the GP battery box and 24ah battery from Santa. I charged the battery that day put it in the box now it says 87% remaining that is a lot of discharge for a lithium battery in 12 days. The switch has been off the whole time. I’ll keep an eye on it maybe it needs to cycle a few times. I need to ham harder probably.🤣
Great setup
I seen a battery box Amazon add for $15.99 I didn't get a chance to check it out tho.
Oh man Dem Ports! Yeah i made one of these and modified it a bit. Went your route with the power poles but i replaced the volt meter with a qc3/2x usb-c socket. I have a renogy battery monitor on it as well for accurate readings (major overkill). I have my miady 100ah lifepo4 battery in it right now and it's just the perfect size.
I'll post photos in the discord
I like that battery monitor
@@HamRadio2 thanks man, yeah it's pretty nice and really not to bad on the price either
Ports!! I am going to build a "primitive" box using either a 275AMP lawnmower battery or a 1000 amp car battery I salvaged from a car that was totaled by a hit and run driver. It was my primary vehicle. The box I have in mind will have room for an EFHW HF antenna for field use. If I can work it out, there will be a mount for a QRP radio. If I can see how to build a line of boxes, I may get into the high dollar HAM radio accessory line. Yes, I can be delusional from time to time.
LOL, sounds like a fun project
I just checked the prices on this box, Napa has one for $72.99 locally, called Max Trac has 2 regular usb ports, Autodunk may be better depending on what type of usb ports you need, Amazon $89.97 called All Top with 2 regular usb ports, get it from napa. Autodunk on amazon is $84.99 with 1 QC usb and usb c port, May be the best choice depending on usb ports needed. all look identical. Nice box, definitely useful, but the Dr prepare 100 ah battery with the 12-volt module may be better since it has a 100-watt charge controller in it.
Folks say that Napa sometimes has them for $40 or so. I'm watching for those prices again
Not sure if you'll see this or not, but the new "mini" 100AH batteries would very likely fit inside that larger case.
Yes they do, already tried, lol
@@HamRadio2 - Sweet! New video coming or no real point?
PORTS. I made my own box since nothing was available at the time to use my 35 Ah Miady battery.
Making your own is certainly a worthy goal
We boought several bottles of port. Guess that's ports!
Lol.
Port this!!!!! :)) Good timing on the video - just bought a 50ah lifpo that doesn't fit in my old homemade simple box with anderson PP's, meter and switch. The new batt is too tall so I'm looking at converting the old box to new box reusing my power poles and stuff. Looking at "NOCO Snap-Top HM306BKS Battery Box, 6V Outdoor Waterproof Battery Box" or the "Camco Heavy Duty Battery Box with Straps and Hardware - Group 24" on Amazon. I have the parts so I didn't want to buy the $80 box.
I have several AGM batteries with 45A power pole connectors to run my QRP rigs and ac inverter for the fridge. I'm in the process of selecting boxes and matching lithium batteries. I don't smoke. No need for a cigarette lighter port. I prefer dual 45A Anderson power pole. 73 DE WA4OSH
The connectors on the battery box are SB-50, not the 75 amp powerpole.
The "Ports" I want on my battery box are of course powerpoles, with specially colored (yellow positive/black negative) for my solar panels. I also want a cigarette lighter so I can plug in my laptop power adapter that steps up voltage. I built one of these boxes back at the beginning of COVID, but I wish that I had put my solar charge controller in the box and put a shunted meter like Mike has on Big Geek.
Yep
I bought one of these at Napa too. Just be careful carrying it cause the handle pops out. Could easily break your foot.
Thanks
Could I use this as a battery box to run my camping trailer?
Yes
Ports. I like them both, even at retail.
USB ports. Lots. And powerpoles for ham stuff, though I wish hams would change to XT60s. I'm lousy with them from playing with drones, and they have the advantage of only plugging in one way, so you can connect them in the dark and not worry about reverse polarity.
Powerpoles properly installed will also only plug-in one way. But yes, XT60s are nice too
@@HamRadio2 thanks for that. I've never actually attempted to plug my powerpoles in backwards; I'd just heard that you could. I feel better about them now.
I am not a ham radio person,but I am intrigued by this video on these boxes!! THANKS FOR YOUR INPUT!
Thanks for watching!
Very nice box. It would be nice if they made an LED light with a cigarette lighter plug for a base where it could just plug in without wiring and be able to swivel. They do have some pretty nice corded ones.
Ports. I use a commercial 750ah power station for portable operation. 100 watt solar panel to charge.
THAT'S QRO
I got one of those for a 100ah gel battery
That's a really big battery box. Would probably be good for QRO work. My battery box is just a standard orange waterproof "ammo can" with a 12aH Bioenno battery and all of my FT-897D accessories (antennas, microphone, DigiRig, etc.). I haven't wired any ports but may do that this winter to add some USB charging capabilities. Oh and before I forget PORTS.
Power works makes a Lighter plug with Anderson power poles FYI very handy Attachment Jason.
I'll check that out
I have the same type of box from Amazon with a different name. Very neat.
The PORTS are very cool. I'm just getting started with this, so to me, the GigaPORTS box looks better. I'll be looking for that sale.
Agreed, the Gigaparts box does have more port options
Just found the channel...loving it. Like that box. Need that for my camper
Welcome aboard!
I was going to DIY a box until I saw the sub $50 NAPA deal a few weeks ago and grabbed one. I plan to add the power poles like Ham Radio 2.0 plans to. Since it can contain a rather large battery I’d like to use a provided connection or add one for Solar charging. Anyone do this yet? What’s the easiest way?
I need to find some of those sub $50 boxes...
Question... I'm looking to use this setup with a 100ah LiFePO4 to run my fridge full-time. (Dometic CFX3 35) What connector do I need to run my fridge to it? I plan to start with charging it off the 12v of my Tacoma on those terminals but eventually run a Hood-Mounted Solar panel to power it full-time instead. Thoughts on this working for that?
Just curious when hooking a solar panel to the Anderson connections there's no charge controller in the box are you using a solar panel with a built-in charge controller?
That or I connect the controller to the Anderson on the outside of the box, then the solar panel after that
What do you run for charging?
The More Ports the better I say, you know "Ports" "PORTS", haha. Anderson Power Pole stuff has gotten pretty expensive, especially the accessory port type stuff. Must be a lot of people buying them. Thanks for the video. 73.
I don’t care for the large Amazon box because it just doesn’t have enough ports. I want to build my own version so it has the amount of ports and connections that I want to have. Should be a fairly easy and fun project. 73s WB5NOE
Indeed
Harbor! I put a cig lighter port on my build in case I need to run a portable air compressor.
Nice
@@HamRadio2 You ever see those 12v heated lunchboxes and stuff like that they sell at truck stops? I put one on there for stuff like that too. I wasn't hurting for space so I figured why not. It might be handy in the deer stand.
power pole and usb ports are more flexible
Im.kind of new to color and battery setup I have a question on box. Why do you need 2 charging ports on top of box in my thinking folks only to one port to charge? I think I'm miss understanding something
PORTS, got to love them.
Ports- Depends on how much you want to run at the same time. I can help but wonder if you could get 2 of the 40 amp hour batteries in the small box. Keep up the great videos.
Possibly
Nice battery boxes, Greetings from Jamaica.
I want minimum 50 amp battery the big box is available at Giga parts??
The gigaparts battery box won't hold their 50ah battery that they make, but they are working on some larger boxes for 50ah and bigger.
Ordered. Thanks for the heads up Jason.
Happy New year Jason did you get port's for Christmas.
Using my other account now so might get the courage to do a video.
Motters M7TRS 73 👍🏻
Built something like this for my trolling motor on my kayak.
Ports. Another option for a battery box. Now to decide which one to get some day.
Why not both?
@@HamRadio2 🤷♂
Ports, great info! Love the channel, thanks.
Adapt out to a cigarette plug from power pole connector but not on the PS -- multiple power pole connectors up to 45 amp should cover all needs if the 45's are wired to 12 gauge -- change out one of the larger power pole connectors for more smaller power pole connections I can see a need for one of those for maybe connecting to another battery or for fast charging from a vehicle or maybe jump start another vehicle -- fuse everything going to the outside of the box not just to the ring terminals -- maybe add another high powered USB connection -- I would not have the ring terminals on my box but then might be useful can always remove the fuse for safety sake
Interesting comparison! Thanks!
Ports: I don’t have a battery box yet. As I am just a new ham and only have the AT-D878UVii+.
yes that battery box has plenty of Ports!
For $90 (at Amazon) I don’t want to have to add standard (15/30/45 amp) powerpoles or fuses to ground. I have my OH8STN inspired solar generator that has _everything_ I want/need since I did all of the work myself. 🤷♂️
It's odd that you are fine with building an entire solar generator but are adverse to adding a couple of powerpole ports. But to each his own. That is the great thing about Ham Radio - multiple choices to do whatever you wish!
@@HamRadio2 Well if I’m spending the money I may as well have exactly what I want instead of having to buy & modify something already built for me. Not fusing those external connections is poor design!
Would I be able to fit a LifePo4 100 AH battery in that bigger box?
Yes that is what I have in mine
Please forgive my lack of understanding but how did you power refrigerator with that thing I thought the two big white cables were so it can charge
My fridge runs from 12V - those 2 big cables can be input or output
Will either of those boxes fit 2 20ah miady batteries?
Even 1 with more usable ports usb and power pole 30amp would be better.
I think they'll both fit 2 of those batteries. Especially the AutoDunk box