I've heard of using wheel chair batteries to power robotic total stations. I have a Spectra Precision Focus 10 (basically the old Trimble 5600)It uses the Trimble three battery pack. What kind of battery and charging system do I need and how do you configure the power cord to hook up to the robot?
Its been awhile since I used the 5600 but as I recall we got a cord from trimble that used alligator clips to connect to the battery. And we just charged it on a regular car battery charger.
Our local Batteries Plus or whatever it's called has 35Ah gell batteries that are made for those Hoveround chairs for $72; I believe that they also have boxes for them, and they should have chargers as well but any standard 12V charger should work.
Your Trimble dealer should have the cable but if not NEI in LA does - (800)949-1446.
This is a far better solution than the triple NiCd pack.
Here is a great place to get the cable you need. It is a LOT better quality than the more expensive one from Trimble...
http://www.wscable.com/20083m-power-cable-5600-geodimeter/
Right now I'm just using a $50 12v lawnmower battery. We once used some rather large gel batteries that weighed in at 65lbs each. (Kelly, if your reading this, thanks for the backaches!!)
I picked up a small Craftsman tool bag at Sears that makes a great bag to carry the small battery.
Thanks. I checked on Allen Precision's web site and they have a power cable with alligator clips that will connect to my Focus 10. Just need to find a battery now.
I used a cable with the cigarette lighter connector (1st see link) with a vehicle jump starting battery similar to the one in the 2nd link. It was great for setups close to the truck. I saved the three battery pack for remote setups.
http://www.martininstrument.com/store/product/power-cord-5600-cigarette-style/
http://www.cloreautomotive.com/JNC.php
I can't vouch for this brand (GPAC), but I've have battery pack similar to these for my Geo600 and they are very nice. This company seems to be make all sorts of "bag batteries" for various equipment. The Geo600/Trim5600 should work for a Focus 10.
Aloha, I use Shorai motorcycle battery with my 5603 gun. Very, very light and small. However, they are a bit pricey.:-(
I don't use my setup for long hours like most of you--professionals do. So the 4 amp/hr battery works great for me. It lasts me close to 4 hour--full robotic mood. It also powers my Parani bluetooth setup at the same time. I am very happy with it.