On Mon, 06 Jan 2014 23:05:00 +0000, Tim Newport-Peace wrote:

There are meters which will measure battery capacity, but cost more than
6 batteries, so probably not an option. I have used one for many years,
but I bought it as a work tool where it pays for itself.

Tim,

Battery checkers are cheaper that you may think if you look in the right
places. I think that means model shops.

I have a Pro-Peak Prodigy II that charges and cycles NiCd, NiMH, Li-poly/
ion and SLA batteries. It runs off 12v and but can charge and cycle cell
stacks of up to 18v. You get to set the chemistry, charge and discharge
rates and, after the cycle is complete, it gives a read-out of both
charge and discharge capacity. The current Pro-Peak model has similar
capabilities and sells for just under £55.

Pure capacity checkers run £15-£20 though you'd have to hunt round
because most only deal with Li-poly/ion or LiFe batteries. However,
you'd want one that can deal with NiCd, NiMH or SLA because the per-cell
cut-off point for Li-poly/ion is normally 3.1v/cell.

I prefer to use Yuasa NP7-12L SLA batteries. The current cost is £16.80
including VAT and shipping, so the price of model flying cyclers and
testers doesn't look all that far out of line with the price of these
batteries.



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martin@ | Martin Gregorie
gregorie. | Essex, UK
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