Noob... Capacity test Lithium Ion cells?

kramer5150

Flashaholic
Joined
Sep 6, 2005
Messages
6,328
Location
Palo Alto, CA
I have a bunch of cells (18650, 17670 and 16340). I would like to cycle charge and discharge them to test for capacity, so I can best match them in pairs.

What equipment do I need to do this?

thanks!!
 

supergravy

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Oct 26, 2008
Messages
92
Location
Oregon
Unless doing a rough estimate with timer and flashlight you will need a device.

I notice the more authoritative posts here are usually using the CBA II. A google search shows it to be a dedicated analyzer that also allows connection to your pc.

The other option is to buy a hobby charger with discharge capability. Many of them have this capability, although the specs vary a lot on the discharge side. For this purpose I really like the Duratrax ICE as it gives a lot of options like cut-off voltage and high discharge rates. I am currently using a Hyperion 606i, which is a great charger, but it limits discharges to 1A or under with a set cut off voltage of 3 volts for lithium batts. I like the hobby chargers as you can get a rock solid charger AND have some battery testing capability.
 
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