Run Times And Charge Times For NiCad Batteries
CCRadio plus with heavy duty NiCad batteries | Approx. 48 Hrs. | |
Approx. time to charge NiCad batteries with AC Adapter | 27 Hrs. | |
Approx. time to charge NiCad batteries with Solar Panel | 67 Hrs. | |
Times are approximate. Please read previous page for more radio/light opera- tional tips.
NiCad batteries are a great financial and ecological investment if you know how to use them.
•New NiCad batteries require a few charging and discharging cycles to come up to full power. First, charge the batteries. Next, allow them to drain by running them in the CCRadio plus until it shuts off and no sound is heard. Then recharge the batteries fully. This procedure should be repeated two more times if you want to get the full output of your NiCads as soon as possible.
•Do not overcharge NiCad batteries. Excessive charging heat can reduce their life span. It is difficult to overcharge the NiCad batteries with the Solar Panel because the current is low. If you use the 6 volt adapter to charge the batteries, it should be disconnected after about 27 hours.
•NiCads slowly lose their charge even without use. It is best to charge them up for an hour or so once a month if you are keeping them for emergency use. Uncharged NiCads can be stored indefinitely, but will need to be reconditioned before use.
•NiCads can develop a “memory”. If they are constantly drained only half way and then recharged, they will lose some of their capacity. It is best to fully discharge NiCads a few times a year so the batteries will retain their full capacity.
•For optimum results, check your batteries with a battery tester twice a year. Be sure batteries that are low are charged separately until they equalize with batteries of a naturally higher charge.
•It is best to charge NiCad batteries slowly. You can substantially reduce the life span of a NiCad battery by consistently charging at a high rate in a commercial charger. The charge rates for both the AC Adapter and Solar Panel are relatively low.
The Solar Panel can remain attached to the CCRadio plus, as long as NiCad batteries are installed. This will create an automatic charging cycle whenever the radio is not in use. For best battery performance, however, be sure to fully drain and recharge your NiCads about twice per year.
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