• The charger may be operated via a mains voltage or DC voltage. The device can
be operated at 100 - 240 V/AC and 9 - 32 V/DC. Ensure the correct setting of the
mains voltage and set the correct input voltage on the charger. Always ensure the
correct polarity.
• Never leave the product unattended during use. Although there is a wide range of
comprehensive safety mechanisms on the device, it is impossible to exclude the
possibility of malfunctions or problems occurring while charging.
• When connecting the battery packs, ensure that the input and output are connec-
ted with the correct polarity.
• Never wear metal or conductive objects (e.g. jewellery such as necklaces, brace-
lets or rings) when handling the charger. This may result in a short circuit, which
can cause a fire or explosion.
• Only use the product in temperate climates. It is not suitable for use in tropical
climates.
• Do not use the product in the immediate vicinity of strong magnetic or electroma-
gnetic fields, transmitter aerials or HF generators. These may affect the electronic
control system.
• Do not place the product directly next to devices with strong electrical or magnetic
fields (e.g. transformers, motors, cordless telephones and wireless devices), as
these can prevent the product from working properly.
• Never use the product immediately after it has been brought from a cold room
into a warm one. This may generate condensation, which can cause the product
to malfunction or damage the interior components. This may cause a fatal electric
shock! Allow the product to reach room temperature before using it. This may take
several hours.
• Always observe the safety information and operating instructions of any other de-
vices which are connected to the product.
• If the product is not going to be used for a prolonged period of time (e.g. storage),
disconnect it from the power supply by removing the power cable from the mains
socket.
• Trained personnel must supervise the use of electrical appliances in schools, trai-
ning facilities and DIY workshops.
• For installations in industrial facilities, follow the accident prevention regulations
for electrical systems and equipment issued by the government safety organisati-
on or the corresponding authority for your country.
f) Electrical safety
• Before connecting the product to the mains, check that your local AC mains volta-
ge matches the specifications on the nameplate.
• Only use an earthed mains socket (230 V/AC, 50 Hz) connected to the public grid
to power the product.
• The mains socket must be located near to the device and be easily accessible.
• For safety reasons, unplug the mains plug from the mains socket during thun-
derstorms.
• Never plug in or unplug the mains plug when your hands are wet.
Information about charging parameters
Rechargeable batteries consist of two electrodes that are placed into an electrolyte. Batteries
are therefore classed as a chemical element. Chemical reactions take place inside this ele-
ment. These reactions are reversible, which makes it possible to recharge the battery.
A charging voltage is required to recharge batteries. This voltage must be higher than the cell
voltage. Moreover, the energy (mAh) supplied during the charging process must be higher than
that which can be drawn afterwards. This ratio of the energy supplied to the energy drawn is
called efficiency.
The capacity that can be drawn mainly depends on the discharging current and has a decisive
impact on the condition of the battery. The supplied charge cannot be used as a measure,
because some of it will be lost during charging (e.g. converted into heat).
The capacity data given by the manufacturer is the maximum theoretical quantity of current
which can be delivered by the battery. This means that a 2000 mAh battery can, for example,
theoretically deliver a current of 1000 mA (= 1 A) for two hours. This value depends heavily on
numerous factors (e.g. condition of the battery, discharging current and temperature).
a) Selecting the charging parameters
All parameters must be set correctly before each charge. Using incorrect settings
can cause a fire and injury as well as damage to property.
b) Selecting the charging current
Excessive charging currents greatly reduce the battery lifespan and, in extreme cases, can
cause a fire or explosions. Selecting the appropriate charging current for a battery type is there
-
fore very important. The charging and discharging current are determined by the C-coefficient
of a battery pack. Most conventional battery packs have the C-coefficient indicated on the type
plate.
The requisite charging current for a battery is calculated according to the following formula:
Capacity in mA x C-coefficient = charging current
Example:
1000 x 5 = 5000 mA
A 1000 mAh battery with a coefficient of 5C requires a charging current of approx. 5 A.
If you can’t determine the C-coefficient of a battery pack, always use a coefficient of 1C and
calculate the charging current accordingly. This is always a safe charging current. However,
bear in mind that the charging times can vary according to the actual (but not verified) battery
specifications.
c) Characteristics of suitable battery types
NiCd /
NiMH
Pb
LiFe
LiIon
LiPo
LiHV
Rated voltage
1.2 V
2 V
3.2 V
3.6 V
3.7 V
3.8 V
Final charging
voltage
1.4 V
2.4 V
3.6 V
4.1 V
4.2 V
4.35 V
Storage
voltage
Not sup-
ported
Not sup-
ported
3.3 V
3.7 V
3.8 V
3.9 V
Discharging
voltage
0.5 - 1.1 V
1.8 - 2 V
2.6 -
2.9 V
2.9 -
3.2 V
3 - 3.3 V
3.1 -
3.4 V
Before char-
ging voltage
/
2 V
2.9 V
3.1 V
3.2 V
3.2 V
Balancer
charging
Not sup-
ported
Not sup-
ported
Suppor-
ted
Suppor-
ted
Suppor-
ted
Suppor-
ted
Charging wit-
hout balancer
Supported Supported
Suppor-
ted
Suppor-
ted
Suppor-
ted
Suppor-
ted
Number of
cells
1-16S
1-12S
1-6S
1-6S
1-6S
1-6S
Charging
current (max.)
10 A
10 A
10 A
10 A
10 A
10 A
