People often ask on the forum which charger is best to choose for batteries that are used where the batteries are installed. The most common type of battery is NiMH; chargers most often purchased for them are La Crosse (Technoline) and MAHA. But those who have used these devices are familiar with the inconveniences they cause: the inability to charge batteries without removing them from the device (in models that have this feature), and to charge batteries of other types. Many search engines are switching to Li-Pol, Li-Ion, Pb batteries. The reasons may be different, for example, the desire to extend the operating time of the consuming device by using cheaper power sources. Since MAHA and La Crosse (Technoline) chargers are only suitable for NiMH, they will not charge other types of batteries.
Currently, I use two types of batteries in devices - Pb and NiMH, and I plan to test LiIon in the near future. It is clear that purchasing three chargers is not profitable, and it is inconvenient to use them; it would be much better to get one universal device. It is necessary to find an option that is suitable for all the most famous batteries. In order for expensive batteries to be used effectively over a long period of time, it is necessary to ensure controlled charging and discharging.
It turned out that there really is such a charger that meets all my requirements; airsoft players and modelers have been using it for a long time. This universal microprocessor device is IMAX
B6 SKYR.C.. The most unpleasant moment, of course, is the price. In Russia, the charger is expensive, so I ordered it in China and spent $34 including delivery. Three weeks after placing the order, I received a box containing the charger, cables, and instructions written in English.
Frame IMAX
B6 SKYR.C. high quality, made of anodized aluminum. The device has a two-line backlit screen and buttons (4 pcs.) for programming and control. On the sides there are sockets for connecting a power source, balancing circuits and a battery. In addition, there is a socket for connecting a cable that provides communication with a computer and a temperature sensor.
Consider the advantages of the charger IMAX
B6 SKYR.C.
Box View in box Front panel
Side view Bottom view Side view -2
Jump ahead a little, watch the video review of this charger on the author’s YouTube channel CompsMaster there the author sorted everything out into pieces.
Intelligent Process Control
Each program is controlled by different sensors. There are restrictions on setting options. If any problem occurs, the charging/discharging process stops immediately and a message appears on the screen indicating a problem. The user has the opportunity to configure all settings.
High power
The charger power is high, it can reach up to 50 Watts. The device is capable of charging/discharging up to 15 NiMH/NiCd cells and charging up to 6 lithium cells at a current of up to 5 A.
Built-in voltage balancer for lithium batteries
The charger has a built-in balancer designed to work with lithium batteries, which include from 2 to 6 LiFe/LiPo/LiIo cells.
Separate balancing of each element during discharge
The device is capable of tracking lithium battery cells and balancing them during the discharge process. If the voltage change of one of them occurs incorrectly, the process is suspended and an error message appears on the screen.
Supports major lithium battery types
Charger IMAX
B6 SKYR.C. Suitable for the three main types of lithium batteries: LiFe, LiPo and LiIo.
Ability to select “Storage” and “Fast” modes
By selecting the “Fast” mode, the battery can be charged much faster; using the “Storage” mode, it can be prepared for conservation - long-term storage.
High level of security
The charging process of NiMh/NiCd batteries automatically stops after reaching 100%. This happens thanks to Delta Peak - voltage difference monitoring.
When charging nickel batteries, the current is set automatically
You can set the maximum current that will be automatically reached when charging NiMH or NiCd batteries. The current will not exceed the set value. This action will be useful for NiMH batteries with low internal resistance and capacity.
Limited capacity
In the charger settings, you can set a limited capacity value. After reaching a certain value, the charging process will be interrupted. It can be calculated by multiplying the current by the charging time.
Temperature limit
During the charging process, you can use a thermal sensor. By connecting it, you can control the temperature level. Once the temperature limit is reached, charging will stop.
Limited charging process time
To avoid the formation of various defects, you can set a time limit.
Input voltage control
The input voltage is constantly monitored, it is carried out using a microprocessor and protects the car battery, which is used as a power source for the charger, from severe discharge. If the input voltage drops below a certain limit, the process automatically stops.
To facilitate the use of the charger, 5 cells were created to store data related to the charge and discharge of batteries of various types. The user can view and correct this data at any convenient time.
Cycler
For NiMH/NiCd batteries, it is possible to use sequential charge-discharge operations in any direction. Up to 5 cycles can be performed. Thanks to this function, batteries are trained. Like all devices IMAX
B6 SKYR.C. In addition to the advantages, there are some disadvantages:
The essence of the first of them is that when two or more NiMH/NiCd batteries are placed, the charge and discharge of each of them can occur differently. The device perceives all elements as one battery. This problem is minor if new batteries from the same batch are used. Otherwise, before putting it into operation, each battery must be brought to equal conditions, that is, trained and charged/discharged.
The disadvantages include the need for an external power supply when using the charger at home. However, this disadvantage turns into an advantage when the charger is used in a car. There is also a model IMAX B6ac, the design of which includes a block that allows the device to be brought into operation from the mains at a voltage of 220 V. In extreme cases, the charger can be connected to the computer’s power supply.
There is one more small drawback. Programming of the memory is carried out in English. But user programs for each type of battery must be installed once.
Despite the shortcomings inherent in the IMAX B6, this device is much better than other chargers designed for group charging of NiMH/NiCd batteries (including 6F22 - “Krona”). When using it, the batteries are charged efficiently, without the need to remove them from the device (if such a possibility is provided), and there is also no need to worry about overcharging or undercharging. Taking advantage IMAX B6 SKYR.C., you can train batteries and perform a forced charge. The device is suitable for use in cars and charging car batteries. IMAX B6 is useful for people who need to charge different types of batteries or group charge batteries. The cost of the device including delivery is $34, I bought it during the discount, here is the link where I got it. IMAX B6 SKYR.C. can be a significant competitor to other chargers.
And why exactly IMAX B6 SKYR.C. there is still just IMAX B6 there are not big differences between them, IMAX B6 SKYR.C. There is a USB connector for connecting it to a PC to update the firmware and monitor the charging process on a PC monitor, although I myself do not use the USB input, only to update the firmware.
SkyRC iMAX B6 mini is not just a smaller version of the legendary charger, as it might seem.
The device is original.
Despite the more compact housing, the power of the B6 mini has increased by 20% to 60 Watts, and the already outstanding functionality has been expanded.
This product is covered preferential delivery within the Russian Federation - 200 rubles.
(see additional information)
note, this is an original product (not a clone or a copy), it has a hologram and a number that can be checked on the manufacturer’s website http://www.skyrc.com/antifake/indexen.php
The new iMAX can be connected to a computer, laptop or smartphone to update firmware and control the charger.
The long-awaited battery testing function has also appeared; the device allows you to measure the voltage and resistance of not only batteries and assemblies, but also each cell in the assembly.
Well, of course, Imax B6 mini can charge and discharge all the most popular types of batteries, and is equipped with a balancer for correct and safe charging of lithium assemblies consisting of 1 to 6 cells.
For nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries, the number of cells in the assembly can reach 15, and for lead - 20. In this case, the charge of each cell is intelligently controlled using a microcontroller, as well as temperature control.
You will get even more features and ease of use by downloading the ChargeMaster program for a PC or device running Android and iOS (you will need to purchase a SkyRC Wi-Fi module).
Well, and of course, iMAX B6 mini is a traditionally high quality of manufacturing of all components and assembly. The case is made of aircraft aluminum, and to protect the electronics from overheating, the device is equipped with an active cooling system.
An interesting feature is also the DC power supply with a voltage of 11-18 Volts, which allows SkyRC B6 mini to work not only from the network when using an adapter, but also, for example, from a car battery.
The package, in addition to the charger itself, also includes power connectors for charging batteries (T-Plug + crocodiles), a balancing connector JST-XH (for 2-6S batteries), connectors for charging on-board batteries with JST (BEC), JR/Futaba connectors /Hitec, filament charging cable, and instructions.
This model is supplied without a power supply.
Voltage supplied to the input: 11-18V, so as a power supply you can use, for example, a power supply from a laptop or any other that has a stabilized voltage in the specified range.
Or you can just buy a branded power supply: .
Please note, included instructions in English . Instructions in Russian can be downloaded from the link below.
Characteristics
SkyRC Imax B6 mini
Input voltage from power supply: 11-18V
Output power: 60W
Charging current: 0.1-6A
Discharge current: 0.1-2A
Battery type: NiMH, NiCd, Li-Ion, Li-Po, Pb
Number of chargeable elements: 1-15 for NiCd, NiMH, 1-6 for Li-Ion, Li-Po, 2-20 for Pb
Size: 102 x 84 x 29mm
Weight: 233g
1 year warranty
I purchased the Imax B6 device for $12.23. The seller sent it at my request by Hong Kong post, for which I had to pay a little extra, but it was worth it, delivery was faster than through logistics companies. During the delivery process, it was tracked by both Hong Kong Post and Russian Post. It took the IMAX B6 only 12 days to reach the post office from the date of payment.
Instructions and settings during operation
The charger-balancer device was purchased to service numerous batteries and rechargeable batteries of different types that I use. According to the description, the charging-balancer device is capable of servicing NICD, NIMN, LIion, LIpol, Pb battery, but in practice it copes well with relatively new types of batteries - NIZN.
Appearance
The charging process is carried out in “AUTO” or manual mode. In the “AUTO” mode, only the maximum current is set; the charging current changes during the cycle according to a pre-programmed algorithm for each type of element, while in manual mode the specified current remains unchanged throughout the entire cycle.
You can test the actual capacity of the elements. Power supply from an external source with a voltage of 12-18 volts. Control is carried out with just four metal buttons. In the settings, you can save 5 operating programs of the device into the memory or set a new operating mode before connecting the battery.
It is possible to disable the charging process when a certain temperature is reached on the battery (when connecting a temperature sensor not included in the kit), after some time has passed (up to 4 hours or do not control the time), when a certain charging current is reached, the sound signal is turned on/off.
During operation, the liquid crystal display displays information about the operating mode, battery voltage, charging/discharging current.
My device is powered from the laptop power supply. During operation, the first thing I did was remake the output cords, since the ones included in the kit are not applicable, there are no such connectors (except for crocodile clips). This is perhaps the only thing I didn’t like, but maybe only me.
I made cords specifically for the equipment that I charge (mainly children’s toys) and adapted them to battery compartments for charging 1-3 AA, AAA batteries.
Click to enlarge
In the NICD and NIMN training mode, it was possible to restore, although not completely, the functionality of 4 of the 12 elements. The balancing program is necessary when operating several LIion, LIpol batteries connected in series, I haven’t used it, I can’t say anything.
Nizn
Charging NIZN cells in the Imax B6 is not provided, but is possible. The voltage of these elements is 1.6 V, which is slightly higher than the voltage of NICD, NIMN (1.2 V). The charging algorithm is identical. To connect, I use a battery compartment for 2 AA batteries; in the device I set the voltage to 3.6 V (3 cells). Charges, doesn't swear.
Car batteries
Use as a charger for lead batteries...
I charged and am charging a child’s electric car with two 6-volt batteries; in winter I charged a car battery with a current of 5 A. It is very convenient to notify about errors, not some code that needs to be looked for in a table, but a text message, albeit in good English.
Also, in the cold winter, I helped my Priora’s standard generator a little by charging the car’s battery in the garage. I have no heating in my garage, but the Imax withstood the cold well and didn’t act up.
Review
Overall, very pleased. I already wrote about NIZN batteries above and this is also a big plus! Outwardly it looks high quality, but I couldn’t take it apart. It has been working without failures or breakdowns for several months now, and in capable hands it provides a whole range of possibilities! All error messages, end of working cycle and other messages are accompanied by a sound signal.
Where can I buy
You can purchase it on the Aliexpress website. Please note: you should only buy the original iMax B6 product, for which we look at the product title. If it says “ORIGINAL”, then everything is fine. The fact is that the very rules of Aliexpress for sellers and stores prohibit them from selling counterfeits indicating the originality, thereby deceiving buyers.
If this rule is violated, they will pay a large fine or completely lose their account with all unpaid funds. So sellers of fakes simply usually do not write anything about the origin of the product, but sellers of original products will definitely note this in the title and description!
Comparison of original and fake
Video review
I purchased the original version. In others, either the build quality or the price tag suffers. The kit includes a large number of adapters for batteries, but there is no power supply. Which is generally logical: the charger is intended to “charge anything in any conditions.” So don’t put all possible voltage converters into the box, thereby only increasing the price. But buying the necessary power supply is not a problem - any with an output voltage of 11 - 18V and a maximum load current of at least 5.5A will do.
N and the photo is my power supply. This is a power supply for LED panels, for placement indoors. Since the workshop requires 12 volts not only for the charger, the characteristics are also slightly higher (two lines for 16.5A in total).But finding the same one for 6A will not be difficult.
The charger itself has a metal case with passive cooling. If you do not plan to drive it for days at maximum conditions, then this is quite enough. The battery is charged through a power connector with balancing through a special balancing connector. The following accessories may also be useful:
Peculiarities:
- Microprocessor controlled
- Separate balancing of each bank
- Compatible with Li-ion, LiPo and LiFe batteries
- Compatible with Ni-Cd and NiMH batteries
- Wide charging current range
- Charge/discharge to battery storage voltage
- Charging time limit function
- Input Voltage Monitoring (Protecting your vehicle's battery in the field)
- Storing Battery Parameters (Store up to 5 sets of battery parameters in memory)
- Storage of battery commissioning date and service life.
Specifications:
- Input voltage: 11~18v (60W)
- Maximum charging power: 50W
- Charge current range: 0.1~5.0A
- Discharge current range: 0.1~1.0A
- Ni-MH/NiCd: 1~15 cans
- Li-ion/LiPo: 1~6 cans
- Pb battery voltage: 2~20v
- Weight: 277g
- Dimensions: 133x87x33mm
Some tips for using the charger:
1. Using the charger in the car
2. How to charge LiPo/LiFe
3. How to charge NiCd/NiMh
Charging batteries in the field from a car.
Firstly, it is worth remembering that the charger consumes current up to 6A and does this for quite a long time. 6A is not that much... but not that little either. Considering that the charging process can last several hours, we get a fairly significant load on the car’s electrical network. Therefore, the first thing you should do is look for an outlet in your car with this marking (12V / 20A):
You should not connect the charger to the cigarette lighter. In most machines it is designed for 5A continuous and 10A short-term. If there is no such outlet, it is better to open the hood and connect directly to the car battery. Fortunately, the “crocodiles” are included in the charger kit.
Secondly, you should not start the charging process with the engine turned off. Because This is a long process, then by charging the model’s battery you risk draining the car’s battery. Then the latter will turn into real estate for some time, and you will go home on foot. At the same time, starting the engine in the car’s electrical network creates quite serious voltage drops. By the way, the “brains” of the machine have a circuit ala UPS, but your charger does not have one. Therefore, when the engine starts, the charger can easily reboot, and in the worst case, burn out.
Well, perhaps the last piece of advice on the topic of cars. Do not charge batteries directly in the car. Why? There are a huge number of videos on YouTube showing how a car burns out due to a lithium battery. And don’t think that this will definitely not happen to you. It is better to make a charger power extension cord and charge the batteries a few meters from the car.
Charging LiPo/LiFe batteries
For example, let's take the Rhino 3S 25C battery.
You can find out what 3S and 25C are. But in this case we will be interested in one more parameter - charging current. Information about it can sometimes be found on the back of the battery:
"NEVER charge above 2C" is exactly what we need. The maximum charging current is two capacities.
But if nothing like that is written on the battery, it’s okay. In this case, there is a simple rule - you can charge the battery with a current numerically equal to its capacity (1C). In general, the lower the charging current, the longer the battery will live. But the longer it will take to charge. If there is no hurry, set it to 0.5C.
In our example we will do just that. 1350Ah * 0.5C = 0.7A We calculate the value approximately to the nearest tenth, because You simply cannot enter greater accuracy into the charger.
We figured out the battery parameters - connect....
First of all, we connect all the connectors except the power to the charger.
Next we connect the battery
To attach the temperature sensor we use a rubber band
Connect the power and first look for the User Set Program menu
Here we set the cut-off temperature
It is better not to set it more than 60 degrees. Mine costs 45.
Set a timer. This is one of the security features. To do this, you need to roughly estimate the battery charging time based on its capacity, charging current and residual charge.
Select the type of lithium battery. If we charge not LiPo, but LiFe, then we need to select the appropriate value. The charger will set the voltage automatically depending on the selected battery type.
Now go to the top menu and find the item Program Select LiPo BATT (or LiFe BATT)
We go into it and look for the LiPo Balance item
Here we set the charging parameters for our battery and press Enter (the button will need to be held down for 3-4 seconds).
The charger will check the correspondence between the set number of cans and what is actually connected to it. If everything is correct, a confirmation message will appear.
Press Enter - the charging process begins. Next, wait for the sound signal about the end of charging.
During charging, you can use the right/left buttons to monitor the current battery temperature and the voltage on each bank.
Charging NiCd/NiMh batteries
Unlike LiPo, NiMh batteries must be discharged before charging. This is done in order not to fill the threshold.
Let's look at the charging process using the example of a NiMh 7.2V 1100mAh battery assembly
We connect it to the charger and select Programm Select NiMh Batt in the menu. Before doing this, you should set the Safety Timer to a higher number - NiMh takes a very long time to charge.
Here we find NiMH CHARGE CURRENT - charging current. Because If you need to charge the battery 0.3-0.6 times the nominal Ah, then we calculate it as 0.5A * 1.1Ah = 0.55A. Let's round up to 0.6A.
Now we find NiMH DISCHARGE. Here we set the discharge current and voltage. The smaller it is, the better. Typically the range of values is from 0.3A to 0.5A. The discharge voltage is set according to the following formula V=1.25*(N-1), where N is the number of cans. For my battery V=1.25*(6-1)=6.25V.
Now press the Enter button for 3-4 seconds - charging has begun. It won't be over very soon. The charger will notify you of the end with a sound signal.
2014-08-26T03:49:39+00:00
If you have ever been faced with the question of purchasing a universal charger that can charge all major types of batteries, then you have probably come across the legendary iMax B6 charger.
Today we are pleased to present you a new reincarnation of this charger, which has significantly decreased in size, but has acquired modern functionality that will be appreciated by both old and new fans of the B6 series chargers. So, let's meet the baby -...
SkyRC B6 mini is the new version of the world's best-selling iMax B6 universal charger.
Charger control and monitoring via smartphones
With the optional WiFi module, which is purchased separately and can be connected to the charger, you can control the charger and monitor battery status in real time
Specifications iMax B6 mini
- DC supply voltage: 11-18V
- Maximum charge power: 60W
- Maximum discharge power: 5W
- Charge current range: 0.1-6A
- Discharge current range: 0.1-2A
- Charge voltage:
- for Ni-MH/NiCd - detected automatically
- for Li-Po - 4.18-4.3V/element
- for Li-Ion - 4.08-4.2V/element
- for Li-Fe - 3.58-3.7V/element
- Charge interruption voltage in the range:
- Ni-MH/NiCd: 0.85-1.0V/cell
- Li-Po: 3.0V/cell
- Li-ion: 2.5V/cell
- Li-Fe: 2.0V/cell
- Pb: 1.75V
- Lithium cell balancing current: 300mA per cell
- Delta Peak sensitivity for NiCd and Ni-MH cells: adjustable from 3-15mV per cell
- Charge/discharge interruption temperature setting: 20-80ºC
- Dimensions: 102 x 84 x 29 mm
- Weight: 233 g.
EQUIPMENT
- Charger
- Power connectors for charging batteries (T-Plug + crocodiles)
- Connectors for charging on-board batteries with JST (BEC), JR/Futaba/Hitec connectors
- Balancing connector JST-XH (for 2-6S batteries)
- Filament charging wire
Hitec has announced an updated version of the Hitec X1 universal charger. The new product has a new abbreviation MF in its name and now...
Not long ago, the world-famous company Apple surprised the world with a device unusual for the apple electronics giant - a charger for NiMH batteries under...
Back in June of this year, Sanyo in its press release announced the start of production of new “lightweight” batteries from the ENELOOP series...
Large, informative color touchscreen screens are gradually beginning to replace conventional analog buttons and single-color multi-line liquid crystal screens from the bodies of universal chargers....
Not long ago, on a Chinese website, I bought myself a universal IMAX B6 mini charger (there is also a regular version, but I’m still leaning towards the compact one). The original ones are produced by the SKYRC company. Many of my regular readers or viewers began to write to me - why did I take it, because it is not suitable for charging car batteries, but is only suitable for RC (Radio Controlled - radio-controlled models) batteries. Guys, this is not so, this “charger” has great functionality and I bought it deliberately, namely for large starter batteries. However, there are some subtleties and nuances. Today I will provide you with step-by-step instructions - what to do and how to do it, and there will also be a video version at the end...
At the very beginning, I want to say that today we will not talk about charging the various types of batteries with which it can work, but there are actually a lot of them (for example, LiPo, LiFe, LiHV, etc.). We are interested in “Pb”, that is, acid-lead variants.
Due to numerous requests, I leave a link to a verified seller on ALIEXPRESS - , at least just come in and take a look.
Can it charge car batteries?
Friends, of course it can, but I don’t understand why such a question arises. Even the box itself has the inscription Pb 2-20V (that is, lead options from 2 to 20V). Moreover, there is no connection to capacity, that is, hypothetically, at least 200A batteries can be charged (I’m already silent about the usual 50 - 60Ah).
Many may say - yes, it will warm up and melt from prolonged operation, but no. The charging currents are not so large (more about them below), there is also a cooler for cooling the entire system, even if heating has begun, all this is leveled out by forced cooling.
So the IMAX B6 mini is perfect for preventative charging of car batteries, take it - you won’t regret it.
Plus, it has several cool features that other chargers simply don’t have (or if they do, they will cost much more).
So, of course everything is fine, but now I want to tell you about the pros and cons of this gadget, so here we go.
Charge currents
Some are trying to squeeze 5 or even 6 Amperes of charge current out of the IMAX B6. But this doesn’t always work out, and how do you know what current to set?
I would like to note that the “charger” itself may not include a power supply, or rather it is purchased separately (there is an original one from the same company SKYRC). I took the complete set, that is, gadget + power
Why am I saying this, there are several approaches:
- You take the original power supply. Then we look at its characteristics, we are interested in such indicators as V-4 A . That is, the maximum current with which you can recharge the battery only 4A (and even then ideally) , YOU CANNOT give more current than the “charger” can pull.
- You are using a third party block. I saw on the Internet that some people connect it from a computer, ideally it can output up to 8-10A.
- The limitation in the “B6 MINI” itself is only 6A, so it will not output more (even if a third-party source allows it)
Charging from another battery
There is one undeniable advantage of this device: you can take a charge from one battery and transfer it to another. Tell me – “sounds cool, but how”? YES very simple.
IMAX has a special wire in front of the power input, that is, instead of a power supply, you can connect a battery with special “crocodile clips” (this will be the donor), and on the other side put an already charging battery (recipient). And charge will flow from one to another.
How many times have we tried it - it works very cool and simple. For example, you can take a battery from a UPS (12V), use it as a donor, and power a large car battery. It will transfer some kind of capacity (albeit small, but sufficient for starting, say in winter).
Big crocodiles
The kit does not include large “crocodiles” for the car battery (only small crocodiles) - THIS IS A MINUS. They cannot be connected in any way, they can even be broken! What is the solution, it’s all very simple - we go either to a hardware store or to a car store and buy crocodile clips (clips) for chargers (or for cigarette lighter wires). There are expensive copper (brass) ones, and there are also cheap metal ones. We don’t need expensive ones, after all, we don’t have starting currents (only 4A), ordinary metal ones are also suitable for us. The cost is approximately 30 - 50 rubles.
Now we can connect to the current terminals of a large battery and charge it normally.
Charging instructions
Well, now what’s most interesting is the instructions for properly charging a car battery via IMAX B6 mini (there will be no translation, but everything is clear in English).
WE connected the terminals, supplied power to the device itself, and our display lit up.
Usually it is on LiPo (or some other types), we need it, so we press “STOP” and by searching (right and left keys) we find the subheading “Pb” (lead)
Press ENTER and find yourself in the charge menu for lead types
Here we can set the current and voltage (press “ENTER” once to enter the parameter, use the arrows to scroll to the desired value). You need to know that the voltage here ranges from 2V (1 bank – “1P”) and to 14V (7 banks – “7P”). Of course we need to select 12V (6P). The current strength, as I said, is recommended from 1 to 3A (but the settings allow you to set it to 0.1A).
Next, according to the instructions, you need to start charging, just press START and hold, the process will begin automatically. As the charge progresses, the amperes will drop, that is, if you set it to 2A, they will go to zero towards the end of the charge (the process will automatically stop). Moreover, in the lower right corner you will see how much charge the battery has taken (measurements in milliamps, that is, 1A = 1000 mA). The voltage during the process is 14.4V (for 12V mode).
It is worth noting that the IMAX B6 has the following functions: measuring the voltage at the current terminals (if you don’t have a multimeter), and you can also measure the battery resistance, the lower it is, the better.
Deep battery discharge
There is one more disadvantage that I want to tell you. More precisely, this is a minor inconvenience, if, say, up to 7V, then it will not be possible to charge it in the 12V mode (an error will be displayed). This mode works for discharges only up to 10V, if lower - THEN IT DOESN'T WORK.
The SkyRC company produces balanced chargers for charging lithium-polymer batteries from radio-controlled toys and is familiar to all modellers. Balanced chargers allow you to charge/discharge several “cans” of the same type at once, connected in series.
SkyRC iMax B6 mini is the manufacturer's most popular model. In addition to its compact size, it attracts with its variety of functions and the ability to automatically select current parameters for the connected battery.
Appearance
The charger is a small blue box with an LCD screen and four buttons. With their help, the settings and charging process are controlled. All the necessary connectors are located at the ends of the device. On the left is a port for connecting external power, microUSB for synchronizing with a computer, and a three-pin connector for connecting a temperature sensor.
On the right there are two banana inputs (plus and minus), as well as five connectors for balanced connection of 2–6 batteries or cells.
Dimensions and light weight distinguish the iMax B6 mini from similar devices. You can even put it in your pocket if you want.
Characteristics
Possibilities
SkyRC iMax B6 mini - smart charger. Unlike many cheap devices, it charges batteries from several cells through two inputs - balanced and power. The balanced one does not work separately. This is more difficult than using conventional chargers, but you can connect to the battery directly, bypassing the control elements, which allows you to speed up the charging process. For example, a quadcopter battery takes six hours to charge from its original charger, but only an hour from an iMax B6 mini.
This connection option is necessary for uniform cyclic charging/discharging of the battery (when capacity is restored). Also, the balanced type of charging is useful for charging several batteries at once or working with lithium-ion (lithium-polymer) cells.
Power outputs can operate without balanced outputs. So, lead-acid car batteries or third-party devices are connected to the iMax B6 mini, then the charger works as a regulated power supply. Consuming an average of 16 V and 2 A, the device can deliver up to 20 V and 2 A in 0.1 increments.
Free setting only works for power wires. To avoid incorrect charging/discharging and damaging the cells, there are setting profiles for balanced charging. They can be selected directly in the system menu using mechanical keys or from a drop-down list when connected to a computer. To set the required values, you need to either manually enter the current parameters, or specify the number of elements and their relative capacity. If you select incorrectly, the device will display an error and refuse to operate until the correct values are specified.
Connection via microUSB is another plus of the iMax B6 mini. By installing the appropriate software from your computer, you can update the charger’s firmware, set the required operating profile, and view detailed statistics.
If you include a temperature sensor in the appropriate port, the charger allows you to monitor the temperature of the element being charged. When the value is critical, a shutdown occurs.
Results
The original SkyRC iMax B6 mini costs $40 plus the cost of the power supply. The most suitable for home use may be universal power supplies or laptop units. The price of similar ones in the nearest underground passage is 500 rubles (8 dollars). A universal one, like mine, may be more expensive.
Thus, a universal home device for all rechargeable batteries will cost $50. For comparison, you can see how many different chargers you have to keep and calculate their total cost. I'm sure it will be bigger. But if you only have USB devices at hand, then it’s better to buy something
Many modern electronic devices run on rechargeable batteries. The most common power source is NiMH batteries, for which special chargers like MAHA and La Crosse are purchased. Unfortunately, such devices have certain disadvantages: when charging batteries, they must be removed from the devices; they do not charge other types of batteries, since they are only suitable for NiMH batteries. In this regard, many users try to purchase additional chargers or batteries of other types - Pb, Li-Pol, Li-Ion.
Using several chargers at once is inconvenient and impractical, so it is advisable to get one, but a universal one. The selected device must be suitable for all modern batteries. Their efficient and long-lasting performance is ensured by controlled charge and discharge. The IMAX B6 universal charger is a microprocessor device that can support the performance of different types of batteries.
Price
The main disadvantage of the IMAX B6 charger is, unfortunately, its cost. In domestic markets, the price of the device is too high; when ordering from China, you will have to pay about $34.
Equipment
The IMAX B6 charger comes in a branded box. Inside are:
- Charger;
- cables;
- instructions for the IMAX B6 charger in English.
Appearance
The device body is made of high quality anodized aluminum. The charger is equipped with a two-line backlit screen and four programmable keys, with which all control is carried out. Sockets for connecting the battery, power supply and balancing circuits are located on the side faces. for batteries IMAX B6 can be connected to a personal computer using a special cable through a connector located on one of the side panels. Next to it is a temperature sensor.
IMAX B6 Benefits: Intelligent Control
The IMAX charger has undeniable advantages, thanks to which it significantly outperforms existing analogues on the market.
Charger sensors monitor each of the programs. have certain restrictions. The occurrence of any malfunction is accompanied by automatic termination of the battery charging process and the appearance of a problem message on the device display. All settings can be changed by the user. The controls are easy and intuitive, all the necessary information is displayed on the device display.
Power
The maximum power of the IMAX B6 charger is 50 Watts, which is a very good indicator. Using this gadget, you can simultaneously charge and discharge up to 15 NiCd/NiMH batteries and up to 6 lithium batteries at a current of up to 5 A.
Voltage balancer
For lithium power supplies, a voltage balancer is built into the gadget. It is necessary for correct and efficient operation with batteries containing from 2 to 6 LiFe/LiIo/LiPo cells.
Balancing each element during discharge
The lithium cells are monitored by the IMAX B6 charger and balanced during discharge. The process stops if the voltage of at least one of the elements changes incorrectly. An error about a malfunction is displayed on the gadget screen.
Lithium battery support
Today, there are three main types of lithium batteries: LiFe, LiIo and LiPo. Each of them can be charged using the IMAX B6 device.
Multiple operating modes
Charging the power supply in Fast mode is much faster than in Storage mode, since the latter is designed to prepare the battery for long-term storage.
Safety and reliability
Once the charge level reaches 100%, the battery charging process automatically stops. The Delta Peak voltage difference monitoring feature allows you to monitor the entire process. The current strength when charging nickel batteries is set automatically.
The user can set the maximum current in the settings that will be achieved when charging NiCd or NiMH batteries. This function is most useful for NiMH batteries with low capacity and internal resistance.
Capacity limitation
The battery capacity can be limited in the charger settings. The charging process will automatically stop when a certain value is reached, which is calculated by multiplying the charging time and current.
Temperature restrictions
The IMAX B6 Charger's built-in temperature sensor allows you to monitor your temperature. In the settings you can also set the charging process to automatically turn off after reaching a certain temperature.
Charging time limitation
In the device settings, you can set the time during which the battery will be charged.
Input voltage control
The gadget's microprocessor regulates the device's input voltage, which protects the car battery, which is often used as a power source for the IMAX B6. Charging of batteries stops automatically when the input voltage decreases below the set limit.
Loading and saving data
The charger's memory has five separate cells, in each of which you can store data on the charge and discharge of certain types of batteries. The saved information can be viewed and adjusted by the user at any time.
Cycler
NiCd/NiMH rechargeable batteries can be charged and discharged sequentially using the IMAX B6 charger. The maximum number of such cycles is 5, which allows you to increase the battery capacity.
Flaws
In addition to its advantages, the IMAX B6 device also has some disadvantages. One of them is uneven charge and discharge of two or more NiCd/NiMH batteries when they are connected simultaneously. All connected elements are perceived by the charger as a single battery. This disadvantage does not play a special role if new batteries from the same batch are charged. Otherwise, all batteries have to be charged or discharged to the same level.
Users in their reviews of the IMAX B6 charger note such a disadvantage as the need to use an external power supply when working with the gadget at home. However, the disadvantage turns into an advantage when using the memory in a car. In the IMAX B6 AC model, the charger can be connected to a standard 220 V network using an additional unit. In addition, the charger can be connected to a computer power supply.
Another drawback of the IMAX B6 charger is the English-language menu and, accordingly, the programming process. Moreover, for each type of battery there are separate user programs that are installed once.
Despite the fact that the IMAX B6 has certain disadvantages, it will give odds to many similar chargers designed to charge NiMH/NiCd drives. A huge advantage is that there is no need to remove it from the gadget. An additional plus is safety and automatic shutdown after reaching 100% charge level. The use of IMAX allows for forced charging and training of batteries, charging car batteries. The gadget can be used in a car - it connects to the vehicle’s on-board network and runs on its battery. The protection system protects the car battery from short circuits and overloads. The IMAX B6 charger is an ideal option for those who need to charge various types of batteries on a regular basis.
Some other models of IMAX chargers - for example, B6 SKYRC - are equipped with USB connectors for connecting to a personal computer. This function allows you to update the gadget’s software and monitor the battery charging process in real time.
The average cost of an IMAX B6 charger is $34 including delivery, while the price for the original device is much higher. Despite the presence of some shortcomings, the gadget can provide significant competition to similar devices.
Microprocessor charger
(NiCd/NiMH/Lithium/Pb)
with built-in balancer
Introduction
Specification
Operating voltage |
11.0 - 18.0 Volts DC |
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Maximum power consumption in charging mode |
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Maximum power consumption in discharge mode |
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Charge current range |
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Discharge current range |
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Pumping current for lithium battery balancer |
300 mAh per cell |
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Number of NiCd/NiMH elements in the assembly |
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Number of LiIon/Polymer elements in the assembly |
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Voltage for operation with lead (Pb) batteries |
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Dimensions (DxWxH) |
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Peculiarities
Intelligent Process Control
The charger has a function for automatically setting the voltage during battery charging/discharging. This is especially important for lithium batteries, where parameters incorrectly set by the user can lead to overcharging and possible fire of the battery. Each program in the memory is controlled by limiting setting parameters and various sensors, so if a problem occurs, the charge/discharge process is immediately interrupted and a fault message is displayed on the screen. All this allows you to achieve maximum safety when using this memory. All settings can also be configured by the user.
High power
The charger has a high output power of 50 Watts, and as a result, it can charge/discharge up to 15 NiCd/NiMH cells, as well as charge up to 6 lithium cells with a maximum current of 5 amperes.
Built-in voltage balancer for lithium batteries
There is no need to purchase a separate balancer. This charger has a built-in balancer for working with lithium batteries consisting of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 LiIo/LiPo/LiFe cells.
Balancing each element individually during discharge
The charger can also monitor and balance each lithium battery cell as it discharges. If the voltage of one of the elements changes incorrectly, the process is interrupted and an error message is displayed.
Supports all major lithium battery types
The charger works with three main types of lithium batteries: LiIo, LiPo and also with promising LiFe batteries. All types have different chemical compositions, so before working with the charger, correctly set the type of chemical composition of the battery being charged in the settings.
Modes for lithium batteries “FAST“ and “STORAGE“
You can charge lithium batteries in special modes. The “FAST“ mode allows you to reduce the battery charging time, and the “STORAGE“ mode allows you to prepare the battery for long-term storage (preservation).
Maximum safety with Delta Peak
The charger automatically interrupts the charging process (for NiCd/NiMh batteries) when the battery reaches 100% full. The operating principle is based on voltage difference monitoring, called Delta Peak.
Automatically set current during charging of nickel batteries
You can set the upper limit of the charging current when charging NiCd or NiMH batteries (“AUTO” mode). This is useful for NiMH batteries with low internal resistance and capacity.
Peculiarities
Capacity limit
In the charger settings, you can set a capacity limit, upon reaching which the charging process will be interrupted. The value of the capacitance parameter can be calculated using the formula: charge current multiplied by charge time.
Temperature limit*
The charging process can also be additionally controlled by a thermal sensor (or temperature sensor). The internal chemical reaction of the battery when charging causes the temperature of the battery to rise. If the temperature limit is reached, the process will be automatically interrupted.
* This function is available with a temperature sensor included.
Time limit:
You can also limit the process time to avoid any possible defects.
Input voltage control
To protect the car battery used as a power source for the charger from severe discharge, the microprocessor constantly monitors the input voltage. If it drops below a certain limit, the process will end automatically.
For user convenience, it is possible to use 5 cells to store data on charging/discharging different types of batteries. The user can recall/correct this data at any time.
For nickel batteries it is possible to use sequential charge/discharge operations in any direction (up to 5 cycles). This is especially useful for training Ni-Cd and Ni-MH batteries.
Appearance
Connecting the battery to the balancer
The figure on the left shows the correct way to connect the battery to the charger when using the battery cell voltage balancing program.
Menu structure
Initial parameters ( installed by the user)
When you turn on the charger for the first time, all parameters are set to default. After turning on the charger, a sound signal is heard and a greeting is displayed on the screen.
All four buttons must be used to select programs and change parameters.
If you need to change a parameter in the current program, press the “START/ENTER“ button, then the selected parameter will start flashing. Using the “DEC” and “INC” keys, change the parameter to the required value. To confirm the selection, press “START/ENTER“ again, to cancel the selection and return to the old value, press “STOP“.
This screen displays the rated voltage for the lithium battery. The charger works with three types of batteries
And each type has its own voltage:
Li-Fe (3.3 V)
Li-Ion (3.6 V)
Li-Po (3.7 V)
TO AVOID BATTERY FIRE, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO CORRECTLY SET THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF THE BATTERY YOU CHARGE.
The memory automatically recognizes the number of elements
V lithium battery before starting the charging/discharging process. This is done to check the configuration and after user settings. If the battery is very low, automatic detection will not work correctly. To prevent such an error, you can set a time for the microprocessor to check the number of elements. Usually enough 10 minutes (this value is set by default). For large capacity batteries, this parameter needs to be increased. If the battery capacity is small and the time parameter is too long, this may cause an erroneous result when determining the number of elements. If the processor still incorrectly recognized the battery voltage, it is necessary to increase the auto-detection time,
V otherwise, the default setting should be used.
Delta-Peak sensitivity. This parameter shows the Delta Peak voltage to automatically complete charging for Ni-MH and NiCd batteries. The parameter varies from 5 to 20 millivolts per element. Setting this parameter to a high value risks overcharging the battery (reducing sensitivity), while decreasing the parameter threatens to terminate the charge prematurely (increasing sensitivity). If you adjust this parameter, please refer to the battery technical specification.
Default values: NiCd: 12mV, NiMH: 7mV
USB port / Temperature sensor. The Imax B6 charger has a universal 3 pin port used as a USB interface or temperature sensor port. (On the G.T. Power model, these ports are separate.) If the screen shows the temperature setting (as shown in the picture on the left), you can use additional temperature control. Here you can set the cut-off temperature. The charging process will be completed automatically to protect the battery once the battery temperature reaches the set temperature. The temperature can also be set during the charging process.
If the parameter is set as a USB port, you can connect the charger to your PC via an additional USB cable to monitor the charging process on the monitor screen.
Cooling time. The battery heats up during the discharge/charge process, so it is necessary to give it time to cool down. The program sets a time delay after each charge/discharge cycle to allow the battery to cool before the next cycle begins. The parameter can take a value from 1 to 60 minutes.
Time Timer. After the set time has elapsed, the charging/discharging process will be stopped. The timer can be set from 0 to 720 minutes. The timer can also be disabled, in which case the charge/discharge process will be uncontrolled in time.
Capacity cut-off (when charging) . Here you can set the capacity cutoff (up to 5000 mAh), this will allow you to interrupt the charging process when the specified capacity is reached. This limitation can be disabled, which will allow you to charge a battery of any capacity.
Setting up sounds . Here you can enable or disable event signals, as well as the sound of button presses.
Car battery voltage monitoring . Here you can set the cutoff for the input voltage (within 10.0 - 11.5 V), this will allow you to avoid deep discharge of the car battery when working with the charger.
Lithium battery programs
These programs are intended only for charging/discharging lithium batteries with a nominal voltage of 3.3V, 3.6V, 3.7V per cell. Each type of battery has its own charge current.
On this screen, the type of battery being charged is displayed at the top left, and the current charge current is displayed below. Set the charging current, then the number of elements connected in series (the number of elements determines what voltage the charger will supply to the battery, so it is VERY IMPORTANT to set this parameter correctly. On the charger screen, the number of elements is indicated by S. In the figure on the left, the charge is set for 3 elements (3S) After setting the current and voltage parameters, press the “START/ENTER“ button and hold it pressed for 3 seconds until the melody sounds.
If the charging process has started, the real-time charging progress screen will be displayed. The charging process can always be interrupted manually by pressing the button
Charging lithium batteries using a balancer
This function is designed to balance the voltage of LiPo batteries during charging. During balancing, the battery, in addition to the connected power connector, must be connected to the charger with an additional balancing cable. Balancing ports of various sizes are located on the right end side of the charger. The charging process with a balancer is somewhat different from the normal charging mode. In this case, the microprocessor looks at each cell of the battery individually and controls the supply of voltage to it to equalize to the rated voltage.
This screen displays the type of battery being charged at the top left, and the current charge current below. After setting the current and voltage parameters, press the “START/ENTER“ button and hold it pressed for 3 seconds until the melody sounds.
This screen shows the parameters for the number of elements selected by the user and the specific microprocessor.
“R“ - number of elements automatically determined by the microprocessor of the memory.
“S“ - number of elements set by the user in the previous screen.
If both numbers match, you can start charging by pressing the “START/ENTER“ button. Otherwise, press the “STOP” button to return to the previous screen to correct the data.
