NiMH and NiCad batteries are some of the most challenging to charge.If you don't know the proper charging methods for nickel batteries, overcharging can happen.You can avoid potential charging problems by learning how to charge NiMH batteries.
Step 1: It's possible to get a smart charger for NiMH batteries.
Since you could accidentally over charge them, avoid using chargers that aren't specifically made for NiMH batteries.If you want a smart charger that can detect the battery's capacity and temperature, look for one that has a microprocessor and thermistor.You can get a set of outputs.If you want to see what the stores have available, you can check local electronics stores.NiMH battery charges cost between $20 and $30USD.
Step 2: The device's battery needs to be removed.
The battery or battery pack can be found in the slot or compartment on the device.Simply remove the batteries from the compartment by hand if they are standard sizes.If you have a bigger battery pack, you may need to remove wires from the device.Depending on the device, you may need a screwdriver to get into the battery compartment.Check the instruction manual if you don't know how to access the battery.
Step 3: The capacity can be found on the battery.
When you are going to charge the device, take the battery out.To find your battery's total capacity, check the battery for a number.If you can't find the capacity listed on the battery, check the packaging or search online for the brand and size you want.The more batteries you use, the less capacity they have.
Step 4: Plug the batteries into the charger if you want to.
If you have standard size batteries, such as AA, you should be able to find the same slot on the charger.The positive terminal should be pressed against the other side of the slot.Plug the battery pack into the port on the side of the charger.
Step 5: The safest and fastest option is to charge the battery at C/10.
To find the safest C-rate, divide the battery's capacity by 10.The buttons can be used to adjust the output level or to set the energy output.The battery should be left alone overnight.Since there isn't a strong current flowing through it, it's less likely to break than if it did.If you have a battery with a 2,400 mAh capacity, then you would use a 240 mA C-rate to charge it.If you charge your batteries in parallel, the current won't be distributed evenly.
Step 6: A fully discharged battery can be discharged at a C/3.33 rate.
The timer will run for a set amount of time before it shuts off.Divide the capacity by 3.33 to find the optimal output setting.Use the menu buttons to cycle through the settings.Attach your battery to the charger and leave it plugged in.If there are any issues with the timer, the battery should be unplugged as soon as possible.If you don't know the actual capacity of your battery, you could easily over charge it.If there is a power surge or an electrical issue, the timer may be reset.
Step 7: For the fastest charge, set a rate of 1C.
Click the button on the output settings to change it to the same reading.The battery is more likely to get damaged if it is left unattended.The temperature and capacity of your battery will be tracked by your charger and it will stop providing a current when it is finished.It will take less than two hours to get a full charge at a 1C rate.
Step 8: How long will it take to leave the battery on the charge?
Plug the battery's capacity into the equation and divide it by 120%, since NiMH batteries require more power to charge than what they output.Divide the answer by the C-rate to find out how long it will take for your battery to fully charge.If you have a 1,200 MHA battery, your equation would be: (1,200 mHa x 1.2) 100 mA.The parenthetical is simplified to 100 mA.The C-rate is 1440 100 mA.It would take 14 hours to fully charge your battery.
Step 9: The battery should be charged at room temperature.
Allow the battery to cool down before you start charging it.It's a good idea to keep the battery and charger away from heat and sunlight.If the battery drops below 10 C, it won't charge effectively.
Step 10: As soon as your battery is ready to charge, unplug the charger.
It's a good idea to avoid overcharging since it will reduce the maximum capacity.You can keep a record of how long you have left your battery plugged in by watching the timer on the charger.Before you take your battery out, make sure the charger is disconnected.
Step 11: You can store your battery at a room temperature with a 40% charge.
If you leave your battery plugged into a device, it is more likely to discharge.Plug the battery into a device if it has a full charge.The discharge function can be used to drain the battery's capacity.The battery can be kept in a drawer, desk, or cabinet.If you haven't used your battery in 6 months, you need to replenish it.
Step 12: The battery should be recycled when it stops working.
Depending on how often you use it and the brand, your battery will usually last through 500 charging cycles.If it doesn't seem to hold a charge, contact your local waste management facility to see if you can put it in with your normal recycles.You may need to take it to a drop-off location to dispose of it safely.Batteries can be dropped off at many electronics stores.Take your battery to the store, find the drop-off box, and put it inside.