Charging lithium ion battery

[CriDe]

So here's a rookie question that popped into my head, when it comes to lithium ion batteries, is there any actual reason to stick with a charger made specifically for them, or will any decent charger do the trick?

 

[wc cornysh]

Lithium ion batteries need a charger that fits their voltage and charging style. If the charger gives too much or too little power, it can hurt the battery or be unsafe. What voltage and amps are you using?

 

[Alan]

Yep, good point. I'd also mention that Li-ion chargers have circuits that stop charging when full and keep the cells balanced, which you don't normally see in generic chargers. That protection is super importnat for safety and keeping your battery going for longer.

 

[Fahn_EM3ev]

Spot on advice above. The specific cut-off voltage and the balancing phase at the end of the charge are exactly why you need a dedicated Li-ion charger. Generic chargers will either undercharge your pack (costing you range) or overcharge it (costing you your battery... or your garage). Always match the charger chemistry to the battery chemistry.

 

[Alan]

Spot on advice above. The specific cut-off voltage and the balancing phase at the end of the charge are exactly why you need a dedicated Li-ion charger. Generic chargers will either undercharge your pack (costing you range) or overcharge it (costing you your battery... or your garage). Always match the charger chemistry to the battery chemistry.

and definitely avoid those cheap chargers ...