It's hard to believe I have been a member of this site for over 18 months and have never bought Eneloops batteries.
I'm getting ready to take the plunge but wanted advice on a charger. I see everyone raves about the LaCrosse brand, but they are quite expensive.
Is there anything wrong with this $15 one from eBay?
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/370747389645?ssPageName=STRK:MEWA…
It says it is a 'smart' charger so won't over charge.
Anyone suggest an alternative?
Thanks
I own the charger you have linked. It is a genuine, 4 independent charge-channel smart charger, and does cut off at the appropriate voltage. As a small, portable charger that will charge not just from a 12v source but can, at a pinch, put some juice in via usb, it's a useful unit to own.
Batteries do get much warmer during charging compared to my Maha C-9000 at a matching charge rate, so maybe not ideal for long-term use.
Here is another even cheaper charger that should be fine for your needs: www.fasttech.com/product/1194100-authentic-panasonic-bq-391-…
There is a link on the same page for the 392 model for a couple of dollars more that comes with a cable input. Either way, you'll need an AU plug adapter - a dollar on Ebay.
That's great. Thanks for the link too. Anyone used Fasttech before? Panasonic quality is probably better, but I like the LCD display plus car charger and USB connectors for the eBay product.
Fasttech are excellent. I have placed multiple orders. I believe I was first to champion their cause on OzBargain. Consistently keen prices, and because they ship out of Hong Kong, most gear arrives alot faster than much that is shipped from mainland China sellers.
I would like a Maha MH-C9000 but can't afford it, is this any good?
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Intelligent-EU-Plug-Battery-Charg…
Unknown quantity, but may be perfectly fine.
If you buy it, irrespective of whether the EU plug on the power supply is integral to the plugpack or an adapter over a US plug, with any AU adapter you use ($1 on Ebay if you need one) it's a good idea to unscrew each one you buy - many are lousy - and tweak the contacts with a pair of needlenose pliers so they make good contact with whatever it is you're plugging into it.
Particularly important with substantial plugpacks like the one that will come with this, and other similar chargers.
Incidentally, I notice an auction for a Maha in as new condition on the linked page. It could go for a reasonable price. You might get lucky.
Thanks, I should have some 3~5v 1A plug packs around also saw the Maha and am watching it but as you said it won't be cheap.
Plugpack will be 12Volt, 2Amp, as it is with the Maha.
back of the charger says input voltage 3v, on the description it said 3v 4A. That will be too low to charge 4x 1.2V batteries unless it has a built-in DC-DC converter?
Didn't notice that. Very odd, if true. Multiple similar smart chargers I know of have 12V, 2A power supplies.
Not really an issue as such, but finding a replacement plugpack if necessary down the track may turn out to be a bit of a problem.
The instructions I received with the Panasonic BQ-392 are in Chinese - Here's an english version
What makes it a 'smart' charger?
The auto-off feature will automatically shut off the charger when the batteries are completely charged.
Charging times shown in the table are only indicative and can vary depending on temperature and battery status.
Battery size & Capacity 1-2 pcs 3-4 pcs AA 2600 mAh 145 min 290 min AA 2100 mAh 120 min 240 min AA 1600 mAh 97 min 194 min AAA 800 mAh 90 min na
out of topic.
the original eneloops charger, will it shut down when fully charge? i find the 4 green lights still on after 8 hours charging 4 batteries