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Review on SMAKN® Waterproof DC DC Module Converter by Tim Wadman

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Fits well for a portable ham radio

I used this to power an Elecraft KX3 radio with a 12 volt AGM battery as the radio will not produce full output when running on less than 13 volts is operated. I'm also planning to use it with a LiPo, which might otherwise exceed the radio's maximum supply voltage, but haven't tried it in that mode yet. I'm only taking half the current the converter can supply, so I haven't increased its power, but the converter doesn't even feel warm. I've used a much cheaper (around $10) boost buck converter board in the past and it generated a lot of RFI in the power supply even with a pretty solid capacitor. This is very quiet in comparison and runs directly to the radio without any noticeable interference. It's a bit heavy (10 ounces) for portable use, but it's worth it for its sturdy build and low noise level.

Pros
  • Weight
Cons
  • Some small things