Topic: External Power option / AA sled problem with PMD670/PMD671

[datbrad]

Just to clarify and not get replys with links to old threads, I need to mention that I have read through all the team threads and others written on this topic, and I just want to get a fresh 2009 update on issues and external powering options for the PMD670/671 in a new thread from Marantz users.

In just the last year or so, I have had some of the same issues others have reported with Nimh rechargable AAs in the sled and having false battery failures where simply resetting the sled seems to fix it, and returns the display to showing full charge. I tried to grab the deck and clamping down on the battery door when it started failing last Sunday, and this just shut off the deck as others have experienced.

Now, I am thinking that giving up on the internals is the best option. I have seen references to different outboard solutions, both custom made and simply purchased at retail.

My questions are:

1. The recorder is labeled to accept DC from 13-15v, so does this mean a outboard battery must be in the same range?

2. Is it necessary to still have internals inside the recorder as a backup, or is this not needed with the right outboard power supply?

3. Is there a retail option like Radio Shack, where I can purchase a battery and a way to connect it off the shelf, no soldering?

Thanks in advance for your help !!!

[leehookem]

I haven't had internal batteries in my 671 in over a year.  I simply rely on a Walmart DVD battery, 9V/5400 mAh.  It is around three years old or so.  Not sure on hours available, but I was able to record WSP (around three hours) plus the opener (45 minutes or so) in New Orleans.  Phantom on the entire time.  So in reality, recording time, plus the time between sets and acts, it was on for around five hours.  I still had a green bar lit on the battery when the show was over.

pretty soon I am gonna buy a new battery to be on the safe side:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/480307-REG/Impact_BPD8000_BPD_8000_Universal_Portable_Li_Ion.html

[datbrad]

I haven't had internal batteries in my 671 in over a year.  I simply rely on a Walmart DVD battery, 9V/5400 mAh.  It is around three years old or so.  Not sure on hours available, but I was able to record WSP (around three hours) plus the opener (45 minutes or so) in New Orleans.  Phantom on the entire time.  So in reality, recording time, plus the time between sets and acts, it was on for around five hours.  I still had a green bar lit on the battery when the show was over.

pretty soon I am gonna buy a new battery to be on the safe side:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/480307-REG/Impact_BPD8000_BPD_8000_Universal_Portable_Li_Ion.html

This could be my answer. What about the voltage? The deck calls for 13-15v, but you are saying a 9v will do the job? Thanks for your help !!

[leehookem]

It works fine for me.

[Jhurlbs81]

I know a 671 user that runs his off a 9v Wally batt too.  No issues as far as I know.

[avmonkey]

leehookem do you use the right angle tip that came with the wal-mart battery? Have you ever drained it?

I just got 2, I have a www.batterygeek.com battery that I use now that is 10-14V 8000mAh - I plan on sticking with that one for the 671. But festival season is upon us, so the wal-mart battery will be my back up.

DATBRAD - when I got my 671 I really did not want to worry about a battery sled power issue or lack of run time with AA's. So I purchased a 10-14-88 battery from batterygeek; the one I mentioned above.
I never had to worry about power I can tape 10 hrs with phantom and only drop one bar out of four on the charge meter. It also fits perfect in the porta brace bag made for the 671



Thanks

[sam]

Brad I was like you and wanted a good way for a clean power external power solution. I have done the following.

1. Ordered a 9v Wally DVD battery here cost 15.50 with shipping here:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250376582469
Just look for more items by the same seller and you will see a current listing.

2. You will need a cable with a Ratshack "B" and "M" ends you can order the following from Radioshack*.
"Model: Adaptaplug M  |  Catalog #: 273-1716 - 6.99
"Model: Adaptaplug B  |  Catalog #: 273-1705 - 6.99
"Female-to-Female Adaptaplug™ Socket Cable | Catalog #: 273-1740 - 9.49
*Make sure the tip is positive.

Total with state tax 40.14

I will do some tests and post the results.

[caymanreview]

im doing the same thing, except i had Nickspicks make me a hot swappable cable so i can have 2 wally world batts at once

getting ready to order my wally world batts, cant wait to do some tests!

[sam]

I hooked up the battery today for a test it ran 6:56 before i stopped it. I ran 30 minutes with the light on and when I stopped it one light still lit. I had the 480's, CK63 Phantom on. This with the internal should get me close to 10 hours.

Nick does good work and I got a price to have the cable done was more than fair, and it a great solution.