How to use variable power supply for charging

I think you either use the automatic computerized chargers as designed, or you use your lab supply in 'manual operator supervised' mode. Read up on the charging schedule for nimh cells and simullate that by adjusting the supply. If the cells get too hot to touch, they are too hot.

There's no problem turning the power supply on with no load. I would hookup everything then turn the power supply on, but it probably makes no difference. Lab power supplies like that one are generally pretty well protected and will witrhstand a great deal of abuse. The ad for one of those chargers indicates an input voltage range of 11-15v, so set your power supply voltage within that range. Same goes for the other charger, set the voltage within the proper range. Set the current to a little more than you expect the charger to draw. The charger might get confused if the input power shuts down because the current is set too low.

Mike

"Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue."

Hi, I'm reposting this here, my previous attempt was probably in an

Charles,

If I were in your shoes I would post your question in,

rec.models.rc.air

news group.

They deal with the RC Chargers and Batteries and constantly. I do not see why they won't be able to help.

Wayne

That looks like a nice unit. You will find lots of uses for it.

No, zero load is no problem. The normal way to use it, would be to power it up, then set the voltage and current settings, and then connect your load.

Yes, that will work. However, I recommend you set the voltage on the power supply before you even connect the charger. That way, you don't risk damaging the charger because the voltage knob was accidentally turned too high.

As mentioned above, it would be safer to switch on the power supply and set the voltage, and then connect the charger. You will need to check the manual for the charger for battery connection sequence. Usually, they output nothing at all in their startup state, so you can connect the battery and then select the charge program. In some cases, however, you must press one button, then connect the battery, and then press another button.

Thank you all very much. Everything is working well now, and I think I understand better how to use things.

The rc airplane newsgroup is unfortunately pretty dead. There are some RC forums online though, I think RCGroups has thousands online simultaneously at times. Unfortunately, power supplies and electronics are only covered within a limited scope, and I came here to ask more basic electronics questions.

Thanks again everyone for the help.....

Jim