Best Universal Charger + NiMH D cells?

[Mr. Ouchie]

Hello, I'm a newbie.

I'm looking for a good universal charger, they seem to range from $30 to $65 and up (way up). Is the difference just the charging display? How important is it to get that sort of feedback?

Also, can anyone recommend some D cells? Basically, I'd like to build a battery pack that will run and charge a PDA (Dell Axim) for an extended period of time. My plan is to use 6 D cells and a switching regulator.

Thanks!

PS I just registered but I've been reading some of the forums for quite a while and I carry an E2D daily and I've got a Gladius on a weapon mount.

 

[Papuga]

Welcome to CPF.

I am using a MH-C808M from Maha and it works superbly. It charges my 12000maH 'D' cells in about 6.5 hours (From Flat).

Regarding the Dell Axim, have you considered the USB charger from APC. Pocket sized, LiOn batteries and it can run the Axim for several hours on a single charge. I am using it for my Treo 700wx and I can get at least two recharges of the Treo before I have to charge the APC pack. It lists for about $90.00 but can be found online for slightly less. Nice part of this is that it will work with any device that can be charged by a USB cable. Brookstone stores have them where you can put your hands on it and see exactly what it is.

 

[etc]

I have a Vanson charger (B1C) that I got for $25, and it can charge any 4 cells

It charges D cells in what seems like 10+ hours, and apparently you have to reset the cycle in the middle and plug it in again, and they come out fully charged at 1.4V.

I almost always use AA cells however, very nice for them.

I will probably get a Maha some day.

 

[john2551]

I give another vote for the MH-C808M, it is the best universal charger i've ever used. I too use high capacity 12,000mah D cells & it charges them up in a few hours. I used to use a Radio Shack charger years ago that took days to charge D cells. I'm spoiled now.

 

[john2551]

Forgot to discuss the D cells Some have seen that the Maha Powerex 11,000mah D cells were better than the CTA 12,000mah D cells: http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=149695