Batteries are largely used in the cable industry in backup applications. Both lead acid and gell cell batteries are used. Under normal circumstances, the batteries are not being discharged as part of the cable operation, but have to be able to perform when required. Batteries in this industry are situated outdoors in pedestals mounted on the ground or on a pole. These pedestals are not climate controlled, therefore the batteries have to function in a wide range of temperatures. Also situated within these pedestals are a variety of electronic components which generate heat.

When the batteries are called upon to perform, there is not a high current requirement. The batteries are required to provide power to the electronic components for as long a time as possible. Cable companies generally have a specification of a minimum number of hours during which the batteries have to be able to perform. During use, the rate of discharge will be relatively slow.

In cable operations the batteries are normally automatically monitored either by the power supply or by a separate status monitoring system. Generally the power supply incorporates a float or trickle charger. If the batteries do not meet a threshold level of voltage or current when periodically monitored, either a charging process or a discharge/charge cycle is automatically initiated. Some monitoring systems also have a timer which can be programmed to either charge or initiate a discharge/charge cycle at regular intervals.

In most cable operations, there is a maintenance program which involves physical inspection of battery capacity. If it is deemed necessary that any battery requires replacement, then all the batteries in the string are replaced.

Sulfation is the leading cause of premature failure of lead acid batteries including gell cells. Batteries which are under a constant float or trickle charge still sulfate. The sulfation is an insulating film which covers the plates. The sulfur molecules which form the sulfation are now absent from the electrolyte, causing the electrolyte to become weak and inefficient. A battery relies on clean plates and strong electrolyte to both receive charging current and offer adequate discharge current. A sulfated battery can do neither.

The sulfation process occurs more rapidly in warm temperatures, meaning that battery deterioration will occur faster when there is a high ambient temperature. In cold temperatures, sulfated batteries with weak electrolyte are prone to freezing and other physical damage related to the cold temperature.

Charging of sulfated batteries is inefficient and heat is generated during the charging process. Pressure builds up inside the battery and a pressure relief vent opens to release the pressure to the atmosphere. When the vent opens, moisture also escapes. Many lead acid and gel cell batteries are eventually discarded because the electrolyte, which is essential for the electrochemical reaction within the battery, has essentially dried up.

Traditional battery maintenance offers two methods to reduce sulfation - either an equalization charge or deep discharge followed by a vigorous recharge. In the case of sealed batteries, equalization is not recommended as it can cause loss of the electrolyte. The other method of deep discharge followed by vigorous recharge will typically offer two to three years of battery life in a cable pedestal application.

There is now an alternative to traditional battery maintenance - Can-PULSE Stationary Battery Maintenance products. These products put a very energetic electronic pulse into the battery several thousand times per second. This will prevent buildup of sulfate allowing the batteries to maintain peak voltages and maximum amperage. Without the sulfation accumulation, battery electrolyte will be strong and battery plates will be clean. The result will be greatly extended battery life.

There is also an environmental benefit to use of Can-PULSE products. The cable industry is a growing consumer of batteries, and introduces substantial volumes of spent batteries into the waste stream. Lead acid batteries are hazardous materials, and there are negative environmental effects as a result of the recycling and smelting of discarded batteries. Avoiding premature battery disposal by keeping batteries in service with available Can-PULSE technology is yet another way the cable industry can make a positive contribution to the environment.

The cable industry is changing. Not only is it the infrastructure dedicated to the delivery of home entertainment services, it now supports two way services and data communications for home consumers and businesses alike. Today battery backup is even more critical to maintain the reliability of the cable network. Using Can-PULSE technology to maintain your batteries at full capacity will ensure that you have full backup capability available in the event of power interruption.

Use of Can-PULSE products is a cost effective solution to reduce time-consuming battery maintenance and replacement. You will be able to extend the time between maintenance checks and battery replacements. You will use fewer batteries, and reduce your consumption of power as your batteries will be charged much more efficiently and with less current once they are no longer in a sulfated condition. With all your batteries functioning in like new condition, you will avoid replacing or recycling an entire string of batteries when one battery in the string shows diminishing capacity. The energetic pulses of energy will travel through the entire string of batteries, keeping each battery in the string in optimum condition.

Batteries maintained at optimum condition will be much more resistant to adverse reactions from temperature extremes. Even though sulfation occurs more rapidly in the heat of summer, the pulsing action of Can-PULSE products will be continually removing the sulfation as it forms. Because batteries treated with Can-PULSE products will enter the harsh winter months with strong electrolyte, they will be resistant to freezing and physical damage to the battery.

Telonix is our distributor for customers using stationary batteries in the cable TV, cable TV contractor and telecommunications industry. To visit them, click their logo.

If you have any questions regarding Can-PULSE products, or require more information, please do not hesitate to call Solartech Products at (204) 885-4652 or Fax us at (204) 888-2046 e-mail to info@solartech.com.