Portable battery for telescope and laptop

[AstroTom]

Hi Everyone,

Could anyone recommend a portable battery pack that would enable me to run a laptop and other devices such as a CCD camera. I already have a celestron power tank which will keep my telescope motoring but need more power for the other items.

Regards,

Tom

[jenchris]

I have a 110 a/h deep cycle battery for long weekend use- it's a bit heavy, but I only need to move it to set up!
I also have a power converter to charge my laptop at 17volts - which eliminates the need to use a power thirsty inverter.
Above that I have a 2kva inverter generator. But I don't expect to use that without dire need.
Power packs are overrated... my small battery is a 7ah gel cell from a scooter.

[Marios]

Hi Tom

There have been many threads on this topic with some great home solution's. I think the best way to judge your needs is to research the max amps drawn by your equipment per hour. Then purchase a battery that is at double that requirement over a 10 hour period.

This will insure a long battery life as you will not exceed 50% battery capacity and still have room to add more load in the future ie. Dew heaters.
Also AGM battery's are highly regarded for these types of tasks given there great shelf life and deep discharge up to 70%.

5amps x 10hours = 50AH = 100AH Battery at 50% capacity.

I recommend this Brand of AGM. http://www.batterybusiness.com.au/store/product_detail/fullriver-dc105-12b-105ah-deep-cycle-agm-battery

[AstroTom]

Thanks Marios, JenChris, your information is very helpful. The AGM battery sounds like the way to go. I will have a look more into this battery.

Thanks again,

Tom