Use one at a time, or in parallel?

[Deleted User]

Opinions please.

I've got a 17 Amp Hour Jump Starter pack, which I'll be using (via a small inverter) to run an 8W CFL, and my Notebook, when mains power isn't available.

I'm looking to get a second, identical, Jump Starter pack, to use for the same purpose.

Should I run each one in turn, or parallel them?

jaydeeuk1

Id probably run in parallel for 34ah capacity

aerostar

Personally I would use each one in turn.

Inverters are not that efficient taking 12v up to mains and then back to whatever you equipment needs - If your notebook uses 12volt - 19 volts you may do better to get a car computer powerpack that will boost the 12 volt to what you need.

[Deleted User]

Thanks for that aerostar.

Of course, I'd still need to use the inverter, to run the CFL.

epninety

In theory, you'll get slightly more total energy (Watt-hours) delivered if you run them in parallel.

In practice, the difference will be very small, and you won't see it at all unless you run the packs until the lights go out, in which case you'll shorten the service life of the battery packs significantly.

Gloomendoom

Why not just buy a deep cycle leisure battery? They start at around 80 ah for £55ish.

I use one to keep working and connected to the internet during power cuts.