How many packs?
Work it from cycle time: if a pack flies ~8 minutes and charges in ~10–12 minutes on a fast charger, you need roughly charge time ÷ flight time + 1 packs to run nonstop — about 3 in theory, but real operators carry 6+ because cooling time, partial charges, and a dud pack all eat the margin. Batteries are capacity; skimping here caps your acres/day permanently.
Sizing the generator
Ag drone fast-chargers commonly draw 3–7 kW each. Two chargers on one generator is a 10–12 kW conversation, and inverter generators run cleaner power (better for charger electronics) at the cost of fuel/weight. Undersize it and you'll trip breakers mid-afternoon — exactly when you're behind. Plan fuel: a full spray day can burn 8–15 gallons.
Pack life economics
Expect roughly 200–400 usable cycles before capacity drops enough to retire — many operators retire near 80% of rated. At $700–$1,200 a pack, that's real money per acre; factor it into your cost per acre. To extend life: charge cool, avoid deep discharges, store at ~3.8 V/cell, and skip fast-charging unless you need it.
A field power setup that works
- Generator on level ground, downwind of the crew, grounded per manual
- Chargers on a bench/table, not the dirt; shade over them in summer
- Cooling rack for hot packs — never charge straight off the aircraft
- Fire-safe storage box + extinguisher within reach
- Pack numbering + a cycle log so you retire on data, not vibes
Ranges vary widely by platform — confirm with your manufacturer. Safety: LiPo battery safety.
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