"Eneloop" Charge and Usage Questions

[funkychateau]

OK, I just read through the "why are eneloops special" thread, and I'm thinking about trying a set for my digital camera, which uses 4 AAs. Currently, I keep two sets of NiMH in the case and one in the camera, and rotate/top off every few weeks to keep them fresh. The camera kit stays behind the seat of my truck, always ready.

If the eneloops are a good choice that reduce the periodic maintenance, then I'll be sold. But I'm wondering:

1. Are the eneloops close enough in charge-cycle requirements that I can continue to use my current collection of NiCd/NiMH chargers? In particular, are there different limits to current for "quick charging", and can the eneloops handle a constant 0.1-C trickle charge for several hours without damage?

2. Do the eneloops have the same low-series-R characteristics and capability to supply heavy currents without sacrificing significant capacity? In other words, if I use an AA eneloop in an application such as a single-AA flashlight that draws an amp or more, will the terminal voltage stay "up" as well as my NiMH cells in this high-discharge application?

thanks!

 

[Niconical]

Hello.

Answer 1: Eneloops like a good charge. The recommended for the AA is between 0.5C and 1C, that's 1000ma/2000ma. I'll assume that if you have a very slow charger it's also a 'dumb' charger, either on a timer or just charging non stop until you unplug it. If you're moving on to some good LSD nimh batteries, it would make sense to change charger. It doesn't have to be something fancy, this for example would be a good step up for you.

As for leaving LSD batteries on a constant trickle after they're full, there was a recent thread on that, and the result was no, not a good idea.

Answer 2: Definately yes. In fact, if there's any AA nimh battery you can rely on to supply the load, it's the eneloop.

 

[Marduke]

1) Eneloop are like any other NiMH. That being said, you should be using a decent smart charger for ANY brand NiMH cell. Dumb timed chargers do nothing buy kill your cells.

2) Eneloop actually hold a higher than average voltage under load vs other brands.

 

[funkychateau]

Hello.

Answer 1: Eneloops like a good charge. The recommended for the AA is between 0.5C and 1C, that's 1000ma/2000ma. I'll assume that if you have a very slow charger it's also a 'dumb' charger, either on a timer or just charging non stop until you unplug it. If you're moving on to some good LSD nimh batteries, it would make sense to change charger. It doesn't have to be something fancy, this for example would be a good step up for you.

I have the Vanson V-1000 quick/smart charger with AC and DC adapters. Any reason it would be bad for eneloops?

Yes, I also have a couple of slow chargers - I use them mainly for "topping off" NiMH cells that have sat unused in my camera case for several weeks. I put them on the 0.1-C slow charger for a half-day or so and put them back in the case. I understand you're saying that this would possibly destroy eneloops, as they can't handle any overcharge?

 

[Turbo Guy]

Eneloops can handle an over charge just like other NiMH cells. It is not good for the others or them. fast (15 min) chargers are ruff on any NiMH cells.

I used a set t of Rayovac Hybrids(same type as Eneloops) in an RC Transmitter for 18 months,. they were only charged with a dumb 110 mA rate charger overnight when needed until the cells felt warm. I rand CBA II discharge test of these 8 cells versus 8 new Eneloops after the Eneloops were cycled 3 times and the Hybrids performed just as well as the new Eneloops.

 

[funkychateau]

Eneloops can handle an over charge just like other NiMH cells. It is not good for the others or them. fast (15 min) chargers are ruff on any NiMH cells.

I don't doubt that. The Vanson is more like a 1-hour charger, so I'm assuming I should be OK.

But, from the responses so far, the bottom line seems to be that Eneloops respond "pretty much like regular NiMH" as far as charge and discharge parameters are concerned - the difference being their slower rate of self-discharge. As an Eneloop user, would you agree?

 

[Turbo Guy]

Yes Eneloops respond "pretty much like regular NiMH" as far as charge and discharge parameters are concerned .

The major differences are low self discharge,and lower capacity than is avalable in some NiMH cells. Also they do not need to be cycled every month. It seems that cycling once every 6 months or so is enought to keep them in very good condition.

 

[5.0Trunk]

I just picked up some envelops from Costco which came with the MQN06U Charger. Is this charger OK to use for charging? These batteries are only being used in my LD20 so each set will last awhile in the light.

Thanks

 

[Bones]

I just picked up some envelops from Costco which came with the MQN06U Charger. Is this charger OK to use for charging? These batteries are only being used in my LD20 so each set will last awhile in the light.
...

Here's one take on the MQN06U 5.0Trunk:

http://www.candlepowerforums.com ... post2918950
.