More about XTAR chargers’ 0V activation function

XTAR Light

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You may use xtar chargers' 0V activation function to bring some over-discharged batteries back to life. So how does this 0V activation function work? Is it so powerful? More details as below.

A Li-ion battery might fall asleep due to over-discharge. And the sleep condition can occur when storing the battery in a discharged state, in which self-discharge brings the voltage to the cut-off point. The internal voltage of the battery is low enough so that the protection circuit won't allow the battery to be charged. With the protection circuit tripped, it even reads 0 volts. Many chargers couldn't charge this battery that is below a certain voltage, often in the 2.5V-2.8V range, because it will overheat the battery. It either further damages the battery or causes it to vent because of high internal resistance, and leading to overheating.

But some well designed smart chargers with 0V activation function, can revive the over-discharged batteries again. This kind of charger can gently charge the battery at a reduced rate, often 1/10th the charging rate, until the cell voltage has risen above a certain threshold. And the chance of overheating during this trickle charging is also reduced. Once above this threshold, often in the 2.5V-2.8V range, the cell will be charged at normal rate until it's fully charged. In short, the trickle charge mode is engaged by the charger, so as to sneak the voltage higher till the protection circuit allows normal operation .

For most over-discharged batteries, it can be activated by the 0V activation function of the XTAR chargers. If it's not activating, it's because the cell may be faulty and cannot be repaired. This battery is not recommended to continue using it.
 
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