Need a new charger/analyzer. Reviews are helpful, BUT...need help.

[t76turbo]

I unfortunately misplaced my Pila charger I use for my 18650's and need to buy a new charger so I am not without until I find my Pila.

Anyone have a source for the version 2.2 of the Opus BT-C3400???? I found a source for the charger on amazon but in an answer posted by the seller, they shouldn't have the newer version until June.

 

[markr6]

I'm still looking at the Foxnovo F-4S for $39 and wondering why it's not more popular. Looks like a good one.

 

[ChrisGarrett]

I'm still looking at the Foxnovo F-4S for $39 and wondering why it's not more popular. Looks like a good one.

It's got a chintzy name much like TrustFire, so on that basis alone, people might be spooked until we see some test data proving that it's actually a quality charger.

As I'm fond of preaching, when it comes to li-ion cells and chargers, stick with known and proven brands, even if they cost a bit more.

Chris

 

[ko4nrbs]

What makes a hobby charger different than any other charger?

Hobby Chargers are a lot easier to set up for individual batteries than most think. I use a Reaktor 250 watt and a SkyRC B6 Mini 60 watt with a 4 cell holder connecting the cells in series (4S). It was a piece of cake and gives me many options on how I want to charge my batteries.

I have a few threads on this forum with pics showing how I set them up. I also have an XTAR VC4 that I like but use the Hobby Chargers more. I also use the Reaktor 250 watt to help some of my local RC beginners charge their small battery packs.

Here's one of them:
I have the SkyRc Imax B6 Mini charger set up the same as the Reaktor 250 Watt. This charger is a 60 watt and I use the same charging cradle and power with it that I use with the Reaktor 250 watt. This is a very nice little charger that does it all as well.
Check out all it's functions.
http://www.skyrc.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=200
I bought mine here and it checked out as Authentic on the SkyRc web site.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T959Z12/ref=pe_385040_128020140_TE_3p_dp_1" target="_blank"

SkyRc Imax B6 Mini 60 Watt charger

Reaktor 250 watt set up for comparison.

Modifying the Computer Server power supply was also very easy and gives me 14vdc at 47 amps max!!

I needed a good power supply for my Reaktor Hobby Charger so I settled on a new Computer Server Power Supply. By doing a couple of simple modifications it can be used as a table top power supply with high amp outputs.
Here is the supply. I went for a new one since the cost was low.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/151568861342?_trks...K%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Mods:
http://www.tjinguytech.com/my-projects/server-ps
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.ph...p;postcount=513

Note that there is a simple mod so the voltage can be increased to around 14vdc.
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.ph...;postcount=1592

The Server Power supplies are made for 24/7 service so I expect mine will outlast me by a long shot!!
Bill

 

[markr6]

SkyRc Imax B6 Mini 60 Watt charger

This looks nice, something I would like to have. But is there a simple plug I can get? That Dell thing...have no idea what's going on here!!

 

[tatasal]

I unfortunately misplaced my Pila charger I use for my 18650's and need to buy a new charger so I am not without until I find my Pila.

Anyone have a source for the version 2.2 of the Opus BT-C3400???? I found a source for the charger on amazon but in an answer posted by the seller, they shouldn't have the newer version until June.

The Opus BT-C3100 v2.2 (re-labeled 3400 for an Amazon dealer) newest version 2.2, is available at gearbest.com at less than $39, shipped.

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb...on-(update-continually)&p=4651335#post4651335

 

[PhotonWrangler]

Will the 3100 take the slightly longer 3400mah 18650s?

 

[ko4nrbs]

This looks nice, something I would like to have. But is there a simple plug I can get? That Dell thing...have no idea what's going on here!!

All you need is a DC power supply capable of 11 to 18vdc at around 10 amps or so. Charge current is 6 amps but I would want a little cushion. You can charge a maximum of 6 cells at a time. You can only Balance charge them if they are connected in series.

If you need any help setting something up let me know via a PM.
Bill

 

[tatasal]

Yes, cells up to 70.5mm in length

Edit: just tested, it's up to 73mm

 

[PhotonWrangler]

Yes, cells up to 70.5mm in length

Thanks. My cell squeaks in at 68.5mm so it looks like it will fit. :thumbsup:

 

[curlysir]

The Opus BT-C3100 v2.2 (re-labeled 3400 for an Amazon dealer) newest version 2.2, is available at gearbest.com at less than $39, shipped.

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb...on-(update-continually)&p=4651335#post4651335

I unfortunately misplaced my Pila charger I use for my 18650's and need to buy a new charger so I am not without until I find my Pila.

Anyone have a source for the version 2.2 of the Opus BT-C3400???? I found a source for the charger on amazon but in an answer posted by the seller, they shouldn't have the newer version until June.

Direct from the vendor, it was $39.95 when I ordered mine: http://www.datalucis.com/fulldetails.php?prodid=29

 

[PhotonWrangler]

Well I've ordered the Opus BT-3400 v2.2. I'll post my impressions when I receive it and try it out. Thanks for the advice on this. lovecpf

 

[PapaLumen]

Hobby Chargers are a lot easier to set up for individual batteries than most think. I use a Reaktor 250 watt and a SkyRC B6 Mini 60 watt with a 4 cell holder connecting the cells in series (4S). It was a piece of cake and gives me many options on how I want to charge my batteries.

I have a few threads on this forum with pics showing how I set them up. I also have an XTAR VC4 that I like but use the Hobby Chargers more. I also use the Reaktor 250 watt to help some of my local RC beginners charge their small battery packs.

Here's one of them:
I have the SkyRc Imax B6 Mini charger set up the same as the Reaktor 250 Watt. This charger is a 60 watt and I use the same charging cradle and power with it that I use with the Reaktor 250 watt. This is a very nice little charger that does it all as well.
Check out all it's functions.
http://www.skyrc.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=200
I bought mine here and it checked out as Authentic on the SkyRc web site.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T959Z12/ref=pe_385040_128020140_TE_3p_dp_1" target="_blank"

Modifying the Computer Server power supply was also very easy and gives me 14vdc at 47 amps max!!

I needed a good power supply for my Reaktor Hobby Charger so I settled on a new Computer Server Power Supply. By doing a couple of simple modifications it can be used as a table top power supply with high amp outputs.
Here is the supply. I went for a new one since the cost was low.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/151568861342?_trks...K%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Mods:
http://www.tjinguytech.com/my-projects/server-ps
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.ph...p;postcount=513

Note that there is a simple mod so the voltage can be increased to around 14vdc.
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.ph...;postcount=1592

The Server Power supplies are made for 24/7 service so I expect mine will outlast me by a long shot!!
Bill

Can you tell us which parts your 18650 cradle is made from please.
Thanks. I made one with a cut-up AA holder but the contacts don't seem to be able to handle the current.

 

[PhotonWrangler]

Just got my Opus BT-C3100 v2.2 . It does take my longer 3400mah Fenix cell with a few millimeters to spare. Charging that cell now.

Update -

I've learned that for the first few times you use this charger, use it in a well ventilated area. It outgasses a strong plastic odor when it warms up.