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View Full Version : How do you charge/discharge your battery?


Silviac
11-20-2007, 03:30 AM
I have some new Nicd and Nimh batteries and want to maximise its life and performance.

I think I have to do cycling first? If so, what method and what rate do I need to set?

Is slow charger the best way to start with? 0.1C

SteveM
11-20-2007, 05:41 AM
An initial slow charge is usually the best although there are some conflicting views on this issue. You don't say what cells or how many so it's impossible to be specific.

I have some 5-cell IB1200 NiMH 2/3A cells and I like to charge at 1.2amps with a delta of 3-4mV. Once I've run a pack, I let it sit and cool down and try not to use it again that day. I don't discharge these packs at all.

I also use some 5-cell CBP650 NiMH 2/3AA cells and I treat these the same but use a slightly lower amp setting on charge. Again, I do not discharge these packs.

NiCad cells have been known to develop a memory and these cells can be discharged to help reduce this effect. I use the same basic amp settings on charge but use a higher delta of 8-12mV. I don't have any NiCad micro packs so I cannot offer too much advice.

Roelof
11-21-2007, 04:05 PM
If it is a side-by-side pack it is wise to use a discharge tray to equalise the cells before charging.

Thomas P
12-01-2007, 04:07 AM
Im running GP1300ds, Charge@ 2.0-2.3 A, disc on 6A, tray down to 0.8 with Tekin mini Dr.. Delta @ 3-4

My IB cells (1400) spec the LRP im charging 2.5A, disc 8A.