Abstract: A method of gapping a ferrite core by coating the core with a stabilizing material, fracturing the core with a laser beam thereby creating one or more gaps in the core's magnetic field, optionally opening the fracture to obtain a desire inductance, and then sealing the core.

Abstract: A battery drain limitation circuit for use in engine powered vehicles and equipment which rely upon a battery to start the engine and also to operate accessories. When the engine is not running, the circuit disconnects the battery from all loads when battery charge, as measured by either one of two complementary means responsive to high and low drain rates, respectively, falls to a level below which the battery charge may not be sufficient to start the engine. High drain rates exaggerate battery voltage reduction below no load voltage levels, and are detected by a low cutoff voltage level after which the battery voltage recovers to reflect sufficient charge to start the engine. Battery dissipation from low drain rates is prevented by a long timing delay following detection of a high cutoff voltage level. The circuit is rendered inoperable if the engine is running, by means of a microphone which detects engine noise. The device is simple to install at the battery.