Charger and charging advice needed

[Longshot]

I know there are other threads of a similar nature but I've searched and just found snippets of the information I'm after. I'm basically after a 'noob's guide' so that I can buy a decent charger that will suit my needs and know how to use it properly when I get it.

So far I understand that my battery is a large-type 8.4v and 3300mah, but in terms of choosing the right charger and then using it in the best way for my battery I'm confused about the variety of charging options: fast, slow, 'trickle?'

Do I need to consider 'discharging?'

Do I need a charge with a 'variable setting,' and if so what setting do I use?

As always, all advice is much appreciated.

[LeoDanger]

Re: Charger and charging advice needed

Here are two really useful links:

http://www.greenbatteries.com/bachfa.html

http://www.dream-models.com/eco/electrics-charging.html

[Longshot]

Re: Charger and charging advice needed

Thanks for those Leo, very helpful reads.

Now I just need to decide what charger to buy out of all teh ones that suit me...

'Pro Peak' seem to be getting the most love from what I've heard.

[jfox61]

Re: Charger and charging advice needed

Depends on what you intend to be doing in the future. Are you happy with Ni Mh's? Or would you be looking to go Li Po in the future?

Buying a Multi charger for around £10 more will future proof you and usually they are higher spec than the Pro peak. I use both.

I have had a Pro peak for years and they are built like the proverbial outhouse so should last you. I use that when i need to charge a few batteries, limiting that to my Nicads (yes i still use these dinosaurs) and Ni Mhs, and use my multi charger for my Li po's and any remaining Ni Mh's i have when finished.

The multi charger charges faster, so get through more batteries using that but it saves time to also use the pro peak too.