21-1678.fm Page 10 Thursday, August 5, 1999 12:45 PM
CHARGING NICKEL-CADMIUM BATTERIES
The transceiver has a built-in circuit that lets you re- charge nickel-cadmium batteries while they are in the transceiver. To charge the batteries, connect a DC power cord to the transceiver’s DC13.8V CHARGE jack and be sure the NI/AL switch is set to NI (see “Using Standard AC Power” or “Using Vehicle Bat- tery Power”).
Warning: Do not connect a power cord to the trans- ceiver’s DC13.8V CHARGE jack if you installed non-re- chargeable batteries (standard, extra-life, or alkaline) and the NI/AL switch is set to NI. Non-rechargeable batteries become hot and can even explode if you try to recharge them.
It takes about 16 to 18 hours to recharge batteries that are fully discharged.
Nickel-cadmium batteries come fully discharged. The first time you use nickel-cadmium batteries, charge them about 18 hours to bring them to a full charge.
Notes:
•Nickel-cadmium batteries last longer and deliver more power if you occasionally let them fully dis- charge. To do this, simply use the transceiver until it no longer transmits or receives.
•To prevent permanent nickel-cadmium battery power loss, do not charge the batteries at tem- peratures below 14°F (–10°C) or above 131°F (55°C).
•Do not overcharge batteries. Overcharging can severely reduce the battery’s useful life.
Important: At the end of a rechargeable battery’s useful life, it must be recycled or disposed of proper- ly. Contact your local, county, or state hazardous waste management authorities for information on re- cycling or disposal programs in your area. Some op- tions that might be available are: municipal curb-side collection, drop off boxes at retailers, recycling col- lection centers, and mail-back programs.
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