Comparative Economic and Performance Analysis of Indigenous Fuel Power Systems

An analysis is made of power sources available in undeveloped areas for portable radio communication and strategic village needs. In both instances reliability, simple operation, minimum maintenance, and low cost are prime considerations determining power source usage.

For short missions, a rechargeable battery is most useful whereas for missions of longer duration a foot-powered generator with rechargeable battery is more attractive. For remote undeveloped areas the optimum power system is the foot pedalled generator charging a lead-acid battery through a modified automotive generator.