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21. Battery Charging Methods with the RD60xx
This power supply can be used to charge a wide variety of different battery types and chemistries, and
does so by proposing a large variety of charging strategies. This chapter is meant to group them
together and to find the right settings for your needs.
Please be aware that although the RD60xx has some nice features for battery charging, it is not a
specialist tool for that. High quality dedicated chargers often have more features and built-in
intelligence, allowing for example automatic detection of the battery type, or achieve a higher or a faster
charge, all while better preserving the battery life.
21.1. Battery chemistries
In order to be able to charge your battery, you must first determine the chemistry of your battery, as
many different types exist and that mostly have their own limitations and recommendations on how to
maintain them. Some of the most popular modern types are:
● Lead acid (Pb)
● NiMH
● NiCd
● Lithium-ion
● Lithium Polymer (LiPo)
Many more types exist, and most have sub-types. Some types are more suited for standby use, others
for deep cycle, as there are types that do or do not support fast charging. Some batteries even have
protective circuits in them. This all can be important.
Also, know what you want to achieve. Do you just want a charged battery as fast as possible, do you
want the fullest possible battery, or do you want to find the right optimum for a long life of your battery?
You will have to choose, as it is very unlikely that you can have all of that at the same time.
Ideally, find out the exact type of battery you have, and determine the best charging approach for what
you want to achieve. There are many websites on batteries that can help with determining the best
approach for your use case. Unfortunately there are few with in-depth explanations of all different
chemistries that exist.
NOTE
: The explanations and recommendations here are meant to give an entry level view of the
different charging strategies possible with the RD60xx. They are not complete, and may require
significant adaptations for your use case. It is highly recommended that you get yourself acquainted
with the do’s and don’ts of your battery.
Charging batteries and especially overcharging can be
dangerous
. On some battery types, overcharging can result in fire or even explosions.
As a minimum, find out the battery chemistry. That will quickly rule out certain approaches. Find out
what charging approaches are suitable for that chemistry. Best is if you can find the manufacturer
recommendations for your specific battery.
