Xtar MC4 constantly overcharges!

datumdatzgr

Newly Enlightened
Joined
May 7, 2021
Messages
1
Hi,
I have bought an Xtar MC4 in 2020. I use it for charging unprotected 18650s. End voltage for my cells are mostly around 4.22-4.25V. The charging led remains red sometimes even around 4.27V, then i terminate charging manually. I have tested many old/new 18650 cells, various 5Vdc adapters and different charging slots. I suspected it is fake. As you can see in the images, the branding style is different from packaging. But the build quality is too good to be fake. I have also MC1, it charges exactly to 4.19-4.20V. Do you have any suggestions?
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orbital

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Feb 8, 2007
Messages
4,279
Location
WI
+

Branding & graphics on the unit are different to the graphics on the box and all online pictures.
Quite possibly a fake.



_____________________________________________________

My XTAR chargers are my favorite


Add: if all the sudden you post praising another brand of charger, that'll send red flags to CPF Administrators.
 
Last edited:

Dave_H

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Nov 3, 2009
Messages
1,363
Location
Ottawa Ont. Canada
Looks a bit high. Genuine or not I would not continue to use it. Cell life can be extended a fair bit by terminating lower,
say 4.10v with slightly lower capacity per charge.

A have a cheap 2-bay charger which also terminates a bit high. Opening the charger I found no control circuits;
all of it being in the wall-plug adapter which specified 4.2v but obviously with some tolerance.


Dave
 

Thetasigma

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Nov 10, 2015
Messages
1,197
Location
Michigan, USA
Construction and labeling is off, going with fake or illegitimately repurposed first runs that had an issue with overcharging with a weak power supply or long cable.

Source a legitimate charger from a reputable dealer.
 
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