How long can the PowerTank Lithium Pro run my Celestron CGX mount?
A Celestron CGX mount has a typical power draw of around 1.5A during active slewing and tracking. The PowerTank Lithium Pro's 158.72 Wh capacity can power a CGX mount for well over 8 hours of continuous operation, easily lasting through a full night of imaging, even with frequent slewing to new targets.
Can I use the PowerTank Lithium Pro to power dew heaters and a cooled CMOS camera?
Yes. This is precisely what the 12V 10A car battery adapter port is for. A typical dew heater strip and a cooled camera can draw 3-5A combined, a load easily handled by this high-current port, while the separate 5A telescope port continues to power your mount independently.
What makes the LiFePO4 battery in the PowerTank Lithium Pro better than a deep-cycle lead-acid battery?
The LiFePO4 chemistry in the PowerTank Lithium Pro offers several key advantages. It's significantly lighter (4.5 lbs), provides up to 2000 charge cycles compared to a few hundred for lead-acid, and does not need to be kept on a trickle charger. It is also more environmentally friendly and safer, with no risk of acid leaks.
Is the PowerTank Lithium Pro safe to leave out in dewy or humid conditions?
Yes. The unit carries an IP-65 rating, which means it is fully sealed against dust ingress and protected from low-pressure water streams from any angle. This makes it safe to use in typical nighttime conditions where dew formation is heavy, or even in a light drizzle.
Can I travel by air with the PowerTank Lithium Pro?
The PowerTank Lithium Pro has a capacity of 158.72 Wh, which is below the 160 Wh limit for lithium batteries in carry-on luggage set by the FAA. While it meets this regulation, you should always check with your specific airline before traveling to confirm they don't have stricter policies in place.
How long does it take to fully charge the PowerTank Lithium Pro?
From a completely discharged state, the PowerTank Lithium Pro takes approximately 6 hours to reach a full charge using the included AC charger. The charging input is 16VDC at 2000mA.