TO: ALL WOOD COUNTY ARES MEMBERS (OFFICIAL)
ALL ARES AND NON-ARES AMATEURS ANYWHERE (INFORMATION)
FROM: KEN HARRIS WA8LLM ARRL DISTRICT 3
EMERGENCY COORDINATOR WOOD COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS INC.
WOOD COUNTY ARES BULLETIN NR 21.17 DATE: April 25, 2021
SUBJECT: IS 1000 WATTS ENOUGH?
I've been asked several times if a 1000 Watt generator is enough to be used for a small to medium size mobile communications vehicle. I think the answer is YES. Most mobile communications vehicles are not built for pleasure, or as a recreational vehicle, the primary objective is communications.
The communications vehicle should have batteries for back-up power so that if the generator needs to be stopped for fueling, communications can still go on. The battery capacity should be enough to operate the computers, radios, and lights for a period of at least twelve hours without any outside charging source.
Since the vehicle is not a pleasure or recreational vehicle, then comfort is not the main concern. A 1000 Watt portable generator should be able to supply enough current to the Power Supply that powers the communications equipment, and keeps the batteries charged.
Since communications is the main objective, then having a generator that has enough capacity to operate an Air conditioner shouldn't be a concern. Even on the hottest days of Summer, such as Field Day, a fan placed in the right location, and the windows opened, will keep the vehicle cool enough to allow the operators to be comfortable.
In the winter time, if the communications vehicle needs to be deployed, a small kerosene, or propane, heater should be enough to keep the vehicle warm and comfortable for the operators. So when asked if a 1000 Watt generator is enough to operate a small to medium size communications vehicle, I think the answer would be yes.
Ken Harris WA8LLM
WCEC
Wood County WV