Power Supply Amps?

[thercman]

For the mobile Kenwood TM-71A to be used as a base station, how many amps should the power supply be rated for? This thing can pull that much. I was thinking a Tripp Lite 15 Amp....

Edit: Missed it the first time through the instruction manual. It says it pulls less than 13amp at high power. So at least a 15amp supply I am guessing and 20 would probably be better. With that said is there a particular brand people favor? Or does it not really matter so long as it puts out 13.8v?

 

[thercman]

Has anyone used a power supply for RC vehicles? They have multiple connectors available and even USB ports for things like your cell phone or iPod. ProTek R/C "Super Pro 20" Three Output World Edition Power Supply w/USB (13.8V/20A/260W) [PTK-PRO-20A-SP] | Electric Accessories - A Main Hobbies

 

[Moleculo]

You're on the right track with the power supply sizing. 15-20amp will work fine for a radio that draws 13 amps.

Be careful about using switching supplies that aren't designed specifically for use in an RF environment because they can cause plenty of RFI. Stick with brands that are sold at places like HRO or that you know other hams have used successfully.