Building out a comprehensive EmComm go-kit and doing deep analysis on power systems. Currently comparing 35Ah LiFePO4 vs 75Ah AGM deep cycle for powering IC-7300 at full power during extended operations.

Initial calculations show the LiFePO4 providing approximately 280Wh useable vs 450Wh from AGM (60% DOD). However, the weight difference is dramatic - 9.5lbs vs 52lbs. For backpack portable operations, this seems like a no-brainer despite the capacity disadvantage.

Has anyone done real-world runtime testing with 100W SSB operation? Looking at continuous 50% duty cycle scenarios, not the typical 20% POTA operation. Solar charging capability during daylight hours would be available via 100W panel.

Also considering the Bioenno BLF-1220A vs Dakota Lithium DL+ 12V35Ah-C - both appear well-regarded in the amateur community.

Switched to LiFePO4 three years ago after lugging lead acid to too many Field Days. The runtime difference isn't as dramatic as the specs suggest - voltage sag under load with AGM kills you.

For EmComm work, I'd go larger capacity LiFePO4 (60Ah minimum) to handle extended nets and digital operations. The voltage stability alone is worth it.

Been using the Bioenno BLF-1220A for two seasons. Excellent performance, built-in protection circuits work flawlessly. However, at continuous 20A draw (100W SSB), you'll get maybe 45 minutes runtime.

Consider paralleling two smaller packs for redundancy - if one fails, you're not completely down. Also enables charging one while using the other.

Why not both? I run a 35Ah LiFePO4 as primary with 75Ah AGM backup in the vehicle. LiFePO4 handles 90% of operations, AGM provides extended runtime for emergency situations.

The charge acceptance rate of LiFePO4 makes solar charging far more effective - you can actually recharge during operation with adequate solar input.