[Al Skierkiewicz]

mikets,
I would like to remind your team that the AGM batteries we use are slightly different than a typical lead acid cell and may yield some misleading results. Double check the battery spec sheets from the manufacturer.

Chris
Summer would be a great time to get your Ham license. There are a variety of small kits for ham transmitters and simple receivers. Check out Ramsey kits or just search the internet. Ham clubs have classes and hamfests (ham flea markets) run license tests and are a great source of cheap parts and used equipment. The Colorado QRP club (that is for low power users) has a website and list local fests here http://www.cqc.org/swapm.htm