How to Use an Alpha-3 Prolux Quick Charger

Rechargeable batteries, like the ones seen here, perform best when discharged then recharged to the same amperage.

Prolux's Alfa-3 is a battery charge/discharge station designed for R/C (radio-controlled) hobbyists and is popular with paintballers, who can recharge an air gun's batteries in 30 minutes or less. Among the popular features is a discharge function, which allows users to drain all batteries and recharge them to the same level. This increases battery life--with no drain on one particular cell--and improves device performance. Proper use of the Alfa-3, however, is imperative to personal safety and battery maintenance.

Things You'll Need

• Prolux Alfa-3
• Ni-Cd batteries

Instructions

Plug in Alfa-3 and Connect Batteries

1. Locate positive (+) and negative (-) leads on the rechargeable device's battery pack. The wires leading to the battery pack are typically red for positive and black for negative.

2. Ensure that the red and black alligator clips on the Alfa-3 are not touching and are sitting on a non-metal, insulating surface, such as wood or plastic. Plug the Alfa-3 into a regular 110-volt household outlet.

3. Turn the dial marked "current adjust" as far to the left (counterclockwise) as it will go. This ensures a safe connection when the leads are attached.

4. Turn the dial marked "built-in thermometer" to 5. This shuts off the Alfa-3 if the batteries become overheated during the charging process.

5. Grab the plastic coated part of the red (+) alligator clip and pinch between thumb and index finger to open the clip's teeth. Attach the metal part of the clip to the positive lead on the rechargeable battery and release the clip. Repeat this step with the black (-) alligator clip. Note that if your battery pack comes with a matching socket, you can use the Alfa-3's female plug to connect the battery pack.

Discharge Batteries and Set Charging Parameters

1. Depress the silver button located in the center of the Alfa-3 and hold it down for about 5 seconds. This will discharge the batteries and ensure an even recharge.

2. Slowly turn the current dial clockwise until you notice the needle in the "DC Amperage" window start to move. This indicates that the batteries are charging.

3. For a faster charge, flip the switch marked "Booster" into the 8.4v position. This will increase the voltage across the battery pack. It also increases the likelihood that the batteries will overheat. It is important to monitor the batteries' temperature.

4. Monitor the Alfa-3's DC amperage needle. If the needle drops to the left, turn the built-in thermometer switch clockwise one click to 10. If this fails to work, turn it clockwise again to 15, and again to the off position if necessary. Again, be sure to monitor the batteries' temperature--this dial is a safety device and should be used carefully.

5. Leave the battery pack on the charger until the DC amperage needle has moved into the green portion of the gauge. This indicates a full charge, and the battery pack should be removed from the charger either by pulling off the alligator clips, or by unplugging the pack from the Alfa-3's socket. Unplug the Alfa-3 from the wall outlet.

Tips & Warnings

• The Alfa-3 also comes with a trickle charge function, which will take several hours, if not overnight, to charge your batteries. While frustratingly slow and not always practical, this is the safest way to recharge batteries and ensures longer battery life. To use the trickle charger, attach the battery pack following the same steps, then depress the button marked "trickle charge" until it lights up.

• If the Alfa-3 has failed to work, check the fuse by twisting the dial marked "Fuse" counterclockwise about one-quarter turn then pulling it out. Local hobby, electronics or automotive stores should have a replacement fuse.

• When recharging any battery, it is important to inspect the battery for signs of damage or leakage before recharging. If you see any corrosion or deterioration of the outer coating, discard the battery and purchase a replacement. Damaged batteries may explode during the charging process and can lead to severe burns and eye damage or blindness.

References

• Prolux: Alfa-3