[Elecraft] Can I overcharge the batteries in my KX3

[Matt Zilmer]

The KX3's internal charger is intended to charge _NiMH_ batteries.  Its 
output is a constant 200 mA.  At that current level, you are unlikely to 
overcharge the AA cells, and all that will happen is that they'll stay 
warm.

Theway I handle mobile ops with batteries is to run the charger in 4 
hour durations, and periodically check the BT voltage on the DISPlay. 
For NiMH, if the voltage is 10.8V or higher, I just disable the 
charger.  10.8V is very close to 100%. Others recommend charging up to 
11.1V, which is 100% for most formulations (e.g., Tenergy).  Not sure 
what Sanyo recommends for Eneloops.  You might wan to read up on that.

Specifically for Eneloops - they hold their charge quite well, so there 
is little need to top them off as youmotor alongunless you'redrawing 
current from them all the time.  If the 13.8V input is connected, it is 
diode steered with the battery output and any current you draw will be 
from the external power connection. In this arrangement, the highest 
voltage wins.

73,

matt W6NIA


On 5/4/2017 3:38 PM, Jerry wrote:
> Hello,
>
>   
>
> I am about to take a month long trip to California and then back to Virginia
> starting this Sunday. I am taking my KX3 along with some accessories so I
> would like to know - is it possible to overcharge the NiCads or Enloops. I
> have a system set up on my motorcycle that will provide 13.8vdc at 3 amps
> clamped.  for charging some 12 v sealed lead batteries and I am wondering if
> I use this output voltage and set the timer to 8 hours on the KX3 charging
> system, can I overcharge the batteries and ruin them or worse the internals
> of the KX3?
>
>   
>
> Thank you.
>
>   
>
> Best regards,
>
>   
>
> Jerry, W1IE
>
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-- 
"A delay is better than a disaster."
-- unknown

Matt Zilmer, W6NIA
[Shiraz]