I have a Xantrex powered inverter.  It uses a 1500 watt inverter and 3 17 
amphour jel cells in it to power the inverter.  It also has a charger that 
comes with it and you can plug into 110 volts or connect to the two 3/8 inch 
terminals on the unit for direct 12 volt output.  The charger plugs into the 
Cigarette lighter to charge the unit, and I always leave it connected to 
keep the unit floating at 13.1 volts.  I regularly cycle the battery to keep 
it working properly.  Gerry
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Kevin Minor" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, August 14, 2011 3:14 PM
Subject: What's a good battery backup for an apartment?


> Hi.
>
>
>
> I'm looking for a way to run ham gear in my apartment when the power goes
> out.  I figure a battery backup is the way to go.  I need to run a desktop
> computer on it as well.  I can use an inverter to run the PC, and I'll 
> hook
> the radio directly to the backup.  I was hoping that UPS units would do 
> the
> job, but the ones I got only lasted about 10 to 15 minutes.  I know a
> generator would be ideal, but I don't think the complex would let me put 
> one
> outside, plus the fumes wouldn't be the healthiest thing if I ran it 
> inside
> the apartment. <grin>
>
>
>
> Thanks for any ideas.
>
>
>
> Kevin Minor, Lexington, KY
>
> [log in to unmask]