Question regarding Li-ion batteries and charging

[creme_brule]

Hi all,

Just received my first saber to the mail today! I'm new to this, so I apologize if this question has already been asked (possibly multiple times) before. I've checked in the official "Read-me" thread regarding the Li-Ion setup and found no answers, so I figured I'd start a new thread. Anyways...

I ordered the Li-Ion setup with BuckPack, WITHOUT the optional Universal Charger that came with it. I have my own common battery charger at home, but am wondering whether it is compatible with the Li-Ion batteries. Is it okay to charge the Li-Ions on any battery charger, or do they require a specific voltage?

Thanks!
-CB

[Master Bluespike74]

They require a charger that is compatible with Li-Ion batteries.  You cannot interchange chargers for NiCad, NiMH, and Li-ions.  If your charger says it will charge Li-Ions, you are in good shape.  If it is for the other types of rechargeable batteries, then you will want to purchase one. 

[creme_brule]

Thanks! The charger I currently have is for NiMH/NiCD batteries, so it looks like I'll have to pick one off of the 'bay...

Also, I was considering getting a few spare Li-Ion batteries that I can immediately switch out in case the ones I'm currently using suddenly die on me. Do brands/capacities (900 mAh/1200 mAh/1600 mAh) matter, or will any generic Li-Ion 14500 battery suffice?

Thanks for all the help!
-CB

[Darth Scorpious]

You can find great chargers and batteries on eBay that's where I got mine from. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/High-Quanlity-XTAR-WP6II-Charger-for-6-Bay-3-7V-Li-ion-18650-17670-14500-UK-SHIP-/301075995566?pt=UK_Sound_Vision_Battery_Chargers&hash=item4619871bae
If you go with that you will need these to go with it http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Pack-of-4-XTAR-Spacers-Screws-4pcs-for-MP1S-MP2-WP2II-WP6II-Chargers-UK-SELLER-/181341320527?pt=UK_Sound_Vision_Battery_Chargers&hash=item2a38c8f54f

[Master Bluespike74]

Thanks! The charger I currently have is for NiMH/NiCD batteries, so it looks like I'll have to pick one off of the 'bay...

Also, I was considering getting a few spare Li-Ion batteries that I can immediately switch out in case the ones I'm currently using suddenly die on me. Do brands/capacities (900 mAh/1200 mAh/1600 mAh) matter, or will any generic Li-Ion 14500 battery suffice?

Thanks for all the help!
-CB

I personally purchase the same size and mAh that came with the saber.  On other forums where I am a member, some people have disputed the claim that 14500's can run at longer mAh. 

[Shadowous Phantom]

I use a four bay charger by Nitecore.  I charges Li-Ion batteries, NiCd, NiMh and other variety of batteries.  It also has sliders in the battery slots so that you can charge 18650, 14500, RCR123 and other various batteries sizes.  They also make a two bay charger as well.

http://nitecore.com/productDetail.aspx?id=18

[Choco]

You can also purchase a charger with or without batteries from ultrasabers as well so you know you have a charger that was meant for these sabers.

But yes anything that charges Li-ion batteries should work but many companies say it's not advised to mix and match batteries with chargers