MM23772, Rev. F
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4.2 CHARGING BATTERY PACKS
Battery chargers are available from M/A-COM with nominal charge times of one hour. Combinations
include single and multi-position, rapid charge units.
M/A-COM chargers are specifically designed for charging nickel-based and lithium ion battery packs.
The chargers are chemistry-specific for the battery packs and automatically adjust the charging profiles
accordingly. Refer to the appropriate charger manual for specific operating instructions.
4.2.1
Charging Guidelines
Observe the following guidelines when charging a battery pack:
•
Avoid high temperature during charging.
•
Discontinue use if the charger is overheating.
•
Only charge M/A-COM battery packs using a charger approved for use by M/A-COM.
•
Do not leave batteries in the charger indefinitely. For best results leave the battery in the charger for
two to six hours after the Green Ready LED comes on. Then place the battery pack into service and
fully discharge (as indicated by the radio low battery warning) before re-charging.
If any faults are encountered while charging the battery pack, consult the charger’s manual to determine
the cause and possible corrective action.
4.3 BATTERY PACK USAGE
Both nickel-based and Lithium Ion batteries vary in capacity and life. NiCd batteries have a longer life
cycle than NiMH batteries whereas NiMH batteries have a larger capacity. However, both Nickel-based
and Lithium ion type batteries require basic usage guidelines be followed in order to optimize the battery
runtime or shift life.
4.3.1
Usage Guidelines
The following guidelines will help increase the battery runtime or shift life:
•
Ensure the battery pack is fully discharged (as indicated by the radio low battery warning) before re-
charging.
•
Periodically condition nickel-based battery packs (frequency to be determined based on usage
patterns; refer to ECR-7367). If the battery is fully discharged (to radio Low Battery warning) during
routine use, the frequency of conditioning may be extended. Lithium Ion batteries do not suffer from
memory-effect and therefore do not require conditioning.
Do not leave any M/A-COM battery in a charger for more than a few days.