This course covers the different types of batteries, including acid batteries, GEL batteries, AGM batteries and the newer Li-on batteries. It also covers different types of chargers and what to be aware of when charging.

Batteries: The batteries must solve many different tasks, for example, thruster, engine start, supply power for navigation equipment, lights, and radio for an entire trip. Not all battery types are equally suitable for all tasks. In this course, you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of the different battery types and where the individual types can be used with an advantage. You will also learn good practice about charging, resting voltage and how to prolong battery life.

Chargers: The charger must fit the size of the battery bank. In this course you will learn how to calculate power consumption and how to choose the right charger. One is to use the power optimally, but something else is to get recharged as quickly and efficiently as possible. Also, you will learn why it pays to invest in a charger with bulk, absorption and float modes.

Anchor windlass and bow thruster: Batteries are closely connected to anchor winches and bow thrusters. These are two of the largest electricity consumers on board. In this course, you will get an overview of a typical electrical setup of a windlass and a bow thruster. Also, you will learn why the batteries should be placed close to the bow thruster.

Topics in this Course

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Course Author

My Boat Electronics

My Boat Electronics is run by Lars Doktor Kristensen in collaboration with his family. We have emerged as an extension to many years of electronics servicing on many hundreds of different boats and boat types. Moreover, Lars has held numerous of local lectures on that same topic via the company Prokyon. Now is the desire to reach out to boaters with more knowledge about how care should be taken when changing the power system. One mistake can have major consequences and endanger boat owners themselves and other people on board, which not many realize. Myboatelectronics.com will primarily be a platform for online education in electricity and electronics on board the boats.

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