[AusNOG] Mixing tech stuff

[Ross Wheeler]

> My next property will be semi-rural.

We're on the edge of town, 3300m from the exchange but 100% offgrid. (Not 
by choice, but at the end of the day probably works to our advantage in 
many regards)


> Off grid at this stage looks like a winner if its going to cost more than 
> $10k to get the power connected (which isn't much of a run) in that it should 
> pay for itself very quickly.

Been offgrid almost 10 years now. Home + two home offices. Not many 
compromises were acceptable - needed "decent" computers, lights, typical 
appliances, power tools (lathe, welder, grinders) etc.

Have recently replaced our old 48V/1500AH AGM with LiFePO4 and so far 
(only 2.5 months) they're performing to (or exceeding) expectations.

Most on here are used to designing for reliability, 24/7/365 uptime, and 
it can be achieved with your home power systems too (without spending a 
fortune) if you do your research and think about it.

Some of the (frequently forgotten) considerations include:
  * how much battery capacity do you need
  * how much PV capacity is required to service that size battery
  * how much can you downsize your battery with intelligent use
    of a generator for peak-demand and poor-solar days
  * how big (or small) does your generator really need to be

Also, awareness that conserving a watt beats having to make an extra watt.

R.