Ciblanc Stirrer eating batteries--fixed

[TopJimmy]

I don't use my stirrer from the TF-PRO test kit much--just a few minutes per day. I've now had to replace the batteries 3 times in less than a year. Testing the voltages of the used batteries reveals all at 1 volt--so they actually are all drained. Decided to wire up a transformer I had from a micro usb device (don't know which device--probably a mobile phone I once had).
The transformer is 5 VDC, 600 mA. Here is the process (30 minutes):
1. Cut the micro USB connector off
2. Take apart the stirrer (5 screws).
3. Drill holes for cable routing
4. Insert cable (I tied a knot so it would have a "stop")
5. Strip the cable leads
6. Tin the leads and solder onto the battery contacts
7. Re-install screws

Works good--lasts long time. Can still use batteries--just don't plug it in with batteries installed.

 

[ajw22]

Nice hack!

 

[mknauss]

My batteries have been in mine for over three years. Odd yours consumed them so fast.

 

[Katodude]

My batteries have been in mine for over three years. Odd yours consumed them so fast.

You should probably be testing more often.

 

[SecoSteve]

Is it possible you left your stirrer on and didn't realize it? Without the magnetic pill and the light in the off position, you would never know it was spinning.

 

[phonedave]

Is it possible you left your stirrer on and didn't realize it? Without the magnetic pill and the light in the off position, you would never know it was spinning.

I suspect that I have done that at times.

My batteries usually last a LEAST a season. But then sometimes they are dead in a month.

 

[Newdude]

I'm starting year 3 on the original batteries but SWG, so I'm only occasionally testing just for fun.

 

[Newdude]

Maybe I should add smart stir batteries to my replacement SWG calculations.......

Cell #2 saves $4213 over 1008 Walmart jugs plus sales tax *AND* $9.61 in smart stir batteries.

Maybe it'll help those on the fence. Everyone has their own breaking point and all.