how do i tell if i got protected or unprotected?

blackbag223

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Feb 1, 2006
Messages
26
how do i tell if i got protected or unprotected cells? they are 18650s from AW.

also, which way is positive? just put them into the charger (DSD) and go? is it possible to over charge?

if these are infact UNpotected, just stop using them as soon as they dim right?
 

AW

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Oct 15, 2004
Messages
33
Location
Hong Kong
blackbag223,

The four 18650s you bought are unprotected. The side with vent holes are +ve.
The DSD charger will stop charging when the batteries are fully charged ( indicate by a green LED ). Yes, remove the cells as soon as they go dim.

AW
 

greenLED

Flashaholic
Joined
Mar 26, 2004
Messages
13,263
Location
La Tiquicia
blackbag223 said:
how do i tell if i got protected or unprotected cells? they are 18650s from AW.

also, which way is positive? just put them into the charger (DSD) and go? is it possible to over charge?

if these are infact UNpotected, just stop using them as soon as they dim right?

Blackbag, may I suggest you read thorough this thread on li-ion safety before going any further? Unprotected li-ions are not for the casual user. Seeing that you can't tell the positve end worries me. I'd like you to continue enjoying the hobby in a safe manner. :)
 
Last edited:

LEDcandle

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Aug 15, 2005
Messages
1,943
Location
Mushroom S'pore
I believe most (or all?) protected batts have a strip of metal running lengthwise the body of the battery (under the wrapper), which is part of the protection system.

This also makes protected batts slightly thicker than unprot ones, and might have fitment issues with some flashlights.

Be careful with those lithiums!
 

wquiles

Flashaholic
Joined
Jan 10, 2005
Messages
8,459
Location
Texas, USA, Earth
LEDcandle said:
I believe most (or all?) protected batts have a strip of metal running lengthwise the body of the battery (under the wrapper), which is part of the protection system.

This also makes protected batts slightly thicker than unprot ones, and might have fitment issues with some flashlights.

Be careful with those lithiums!
Well said. The key is to really be careful while using them. The energy density is pretty high in these cells :aaa:

Will
 
Top