How to Charge a Single Cell Lipo Battery
Lithium polymer batteries, also known as LiPo batteries, produce greater voltage than other batteries and weigh far less. A single cell LiPo battery produces 3.7 volts as opposed to 1.5 volts for rechargeable batteries of similar size. RC enthusiasts, particularly those involved with RC airplanes, use LiPo battery cells in packs, wired in series, to produce the necessary output to power their airplanes. LiPo batteries need to be handled with care because they are less stable than other types of battery. Overcharging them, or charging at a higher rate than their output, can damage them.
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Instructions
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Allow your LiPo battery cell to cool before attempting to recharge it. LiPo batteries can become hot when used, especially if used with devices that require a lot of energy.
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Set up your LiPo battery charger to the correct voltage if it has a voltage setting switch. This is 3.7 volts for a single cell battery. Setting to an incorrect voltage will damage your battery. If your charger doesn't have a variable charge rate, it will charge at 3.7 volts.
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Set the amperes on your charger to less than 5 amps, if it has an amp setting. If it doesn't, then it will automatically charge at the correct amperes.
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Insert your single cell LiPo battery in the charger. Turn on your charger. If it has voltage and ampere settings, check to ensure they are charging at the correct rate.
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Check your charger regularly to ensure you don't overcharge your LiPo battery. Most single cell chargers have an automatic cut-off when the battery is charged and a green light will illuminate. If your charger doesn't have an auto cut-off, be sure you don't allow the battery to be charged higher than 4 volts.
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Turn off your battery charger and remove your single cell LiPo battery from the charger. Reinsert your battery in your device.
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Tips & Warnings
Never charge a LiPo battery using a different type of charger.
Unless your charger has an auto cut-off, never leave it unattended while charging. A LiPo battery can catch fire if it is overcharged.
References
- Photo Credit battery charger image by anna karwowska from Fotolia.com
