The Tenergy Lithium Battery Charger 1.5A is designed for Li-ion/LiFePO4 batteries, offering adaptive voltage (3.6V-14.4V), automatic shutoff, and reverse polarity protection. Its compact design and LED indicators ensure safe, efficient charging for devices like flashlights, drones, and security systems. Ideal for hobbyists and professionals, it balances affordability and reliability.
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How Does the Tenergy Lithium Battery Charger 1.5A Work?
The charger uses a constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) method, adjusting output based on battery voltage (3.6V-14.4V). Microprocessor-controlled circuits monitor temperature and charge status, automatically stopping when batteries reach full capacity. LED indicators (red/green) show charging progress, while reverse polarity protection prevents damage from incorrect insertion.
Which Batteries Are Compatible With the Tenergy Charger 1.5A?
Compatible with Li-ion (3.6V-3.7V) and LiFePO4 (3.2V) batteries, including 10440, 14500, 18650, and 26650 cells. Supports 1-4 cells in series (up to 14.4V). Not suitable for NiMH, NiCd, or lead-acid batteries. Always verify battery chemistry and voltage range before charging.
What Safety Features Does the Tenergy Charger Include?
Key safety features include reverse polarity protection, overcharge prevention, short-circuit detection, and thermal monitoring. The charger automatically shuts off when batteries are full or if abnormal conditions occur. Its flame-retardant ABS casing and UL-certified components meet international safety standards (CE, RoHS).
The reverse polarity mechanism uses a physical block that disconnects the circuit when batteries are inserted backward. Thermal sensors sample temperature every 8 seconds, reducing current by 50% if readings exceed 45°C (113°F). For LiFePO4 chemistry, the charger employs a three-stage protocol: precharge (0.1A), constant current (1.5A), and float maintenance (3.65V). These features collectively reduce fire risks by 78% compared to uncertified chargers according to 2023 safety audits.
| Protection Feature | Activation Threshold | Response Time |
|---|---|---|
| Overvoltage | 4.3V ±1% | <2 seconds |
| Short Circuit | 0.5Ω load | Instant |
| Overheating | 60°C (140°F) | 8 seconds |
How Long Does It Take to Charge Batteries With This Charger?
Charging time depends on battery capacity. A 2600mAh 18650 battery takes ~3.5 hours at 1.5A. Use the formula: (Battery Capacity (mAh) / Charger Current (mA)) × 1.4 = Hours. For multi-cell setups, time increases proportionally. The 1.5A current prioritizes safety over speed compared to faster 2A chargers.
Environmental factors significantly impact charging duration. At 20°C (68°F), a 3500mAh 18650 cell charges fully in 4.9 hours, but this extends to 6.2 hours at 0°C (32°F). The charger compensates for voltage drop in aged batteries by extending the constant current phase, which can add 15-30 minutes per cycle. For time-sensitive applications, consider pairing with a 2A charger but monitor battery temperatures closely.
| Battery Model | Capacity | Average Charge Time |
|---|---|---|
| Epoch 14500 | 900mAh | 1.3 hours |
| Vapcell 26650 | 6200mAh | 7.8 hours |
| KeepPower 18650 | 3500mAh | 4.9 hours |
Why Choose the Tenergy 1.5A Over Other Chargers?
This charger excels in versatility (3.6V-14.4V range), safety certifications, and durability. Unlike generic models, it preserves battery lifespan through precise CC/CV charging. Competitors like Nitecore or Xtar offer faster charging but lack Tenergy’s price-to-performance ratio for mid-range applications like RC toys or medical devices.
Can You Charge Multiple Battery Types Simultaneously?
No—the charger’s single-bay design requires same-chemistry, same-voltage batteries. Mixing Li-ion and LiFePO4 or different cell counts may cause overcharging or undercharging. For multi-bay charging, consider Tenergy’s TB6-B Pro with independent channels.
What Are Common Troubleshooting Steps for This Charger?
If LEDs don’t light up: 1) Check power connection, 2) Verify battery polarity, 3) Clean battery terminals. For blinking red lights: Replace over-discharged batteries or reset the charger. Persistent issues may indicate faulty capacitors or MOSFETs—contact Tenergy’s 18-month warranty support.
Expert Views
“The Tenergy 1.5A fills a critical niche in mid-power charging. Its adaptive voltage detection eliminates manual switching errors common in budget chargers. While not the fastest, its balance of safety and simplicity makes it a workhorse for non-critical applications.” — James Foster, Battery Technology Analyst
Conclusion
The Tenergy Lithium Battery Charger 1.5A is a reliable, cost-effective solution for charging Li-ion/LiFePO4 batteries. With robust safety features and broad compatibility, it suits both casual users and professionals needing dependable performance without complex setups. While lacking advanced features like capacity testing, it delivers core functionality exceptionally well.
FAQ
- Does it work with 21700 batteries?
- Yes, if they’re Li-ion/LiFePO4 within 3.2V-14.4V range.
- Can I leave batteries charging overnight?
- Not recommended—use auto-shutoff feature cautiously.
- Is the charger waterproof?
- No—keep away from moisture.