Due to the development of 8ID UHF-Linked Repeater System, the capability of HH radios that has been the most effective way of short distance communication has improved and can now be used in communicating at greater distance. This innovation has situated our HH radios to be the most commonly used communication equipment between operating troops and higher Headquarters. In this manner, the demand and utilization of HH Radios has beefed up predominantly in the Battalion level down to its line Companies.

However, there were difficulties encountered along the way. Among the significant problems encountered was the working condition of the batteries as it goes with time. It has been observed with actual test and evaluation that the capability of Nickel-Cadmium Battery of our Motorola Radio will deteriorate in a specific period of time, more rapidly if proper charging procedure is not observed. Another problem is the increased abrasion rate. Since Motorola Radios were issued to users (Infantry Divisions, Battalions, etc.) in considerably long period of time, this Headquarters is receiving complaints from the users of this command with regards to the malfunctioning of their equipment (HH Radios), and it was later found out that the problem was due to its worn out battery.

Though it is our desire to maximize the use of this equipment, procurement of new battery packs of same specification/brand to replace the old ones will cost a great amount to the Philippine Army. It will become a burden since procurement of such will become regular due to the short lifespan of the Nickel Cadmium battery. Fortunately, the Army doesn't need to be tied down to this short-term solution. There are batteries of better quality, with relatively higher capacity (in terms of Amp-hour rating) yet do not develop "battery memory effect" due to improper charging. An example of which is the Nickel-Metal Hydride battery with 2,300mAh. This type of battery is far above the Nickel Cadmium battery with only 800 to 1200mAh capacity. The 8th Signal Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division has initiated a new test and experiment in order to examine the performance and eventually produced a more effective battery pack for handheld radios, a battery pack that can last at least 48 hours of continuous normal operation and 3-5 days if it is to be used only during time of regular contacts. Production of this battery pack can be done through unpacking the old and unserviceable battery packs and replacing it with a nickel-metal hydride battery rather than its original type, the nickel cadmium battery.

This test and evaluation has signaled the birth of a new innovation- the Low -cost, High Capacity Battery Pack for Motorola HH Radios.

COMPARATIVE COST ANALYSIS.

Based on the high inflation rate that our country is experiencing, cross-cutting has became a traditional solution, thus it is indeed necessary that we find a way getting our systems up in such a low expenditure. This innovation made by MAJ NOEL "BIDA" LONTOC is the best way out to support the government on its campaign on lessening its overheads. More so, this proves that "innovation" has found its way home… the 8th Signal Battalion…