Powerful chargers. How to choose a car battery charger

The short battery life of a smartphone is an actual problem of a modern person who needs to always stay in touch. Due to this lack of gadgets, users are forced to regularly incur additional costs - for the purchase of external batteries, for paid charging services in stores, even for the purchase of "second" phones that can "insure" the main device in case it "sits down".

However, the fact that the gadget is quickly discharged, as a rule, the user himself is much more to blame than the manufacturer. By following some rules for charging your smartphone, you can significantly increase the duration of its battery life.

Why is my phone charging fast?

The user should not be surprised by the fact that a simple “dialer” is able to work without an outlet for 1-2 weeks, while the smartphone sits down a day after the last recharge. The functionality of push-button phones is usually so primitive that putting the battery just nothing. At the same time, smartphones have a whole arsenal of additional options, thanks to which they can successfully replace navigators, cameras, game consoles and other highly specialized devices. All these options are rapidly "eating up" amps.

Here are the main enemies of smartphone batteries:

• WiFi. If the Wi-Fi module is enabled, the battery consumption is much faster. If the distribution of wireless Internet is also activated on the smartphone, you can see how the countdown of the percentage of battery charge goes right before your eyes. An important point is that the included Wi-Fi drains the battery to a greater extent during periods of searching for a network than during a permanent connection. That is why, leaving the reception area, you should not only switch to LTE, but also turn off Wi-Fi.
• Geolocation. Thanks to the enabled geolocation, the user of a mobile device is able to track his location on the map and find out how far it is to the destination. Many people do not feel such a need, and therefore geolocation works in vain on their smartphones, devouring precious milliamps.
• Long conversations. In the specifications, the approximate battery life of gadgets is always indicated in 2 versions: In standby And in talk mode. The talk time is much shorter. The user should, if possible, replace live communication with correspondence in social networks and instant messengers if he wants his device to last longer without recharging.

Contrary to popular belief, apps running in the background on your smartphone have almost no effect on battery consumption. Starting a program from scratch is a much more energy-intensive procedure, so if you use any application constantly, it's pointless to close it every time.

The reason for the rapid battery consumption is not always located on programmatic level. Perhaps the whole point is a technical malfunction, poor quality of the battery, or wear and tear. Each battery has its own service life, which is measured in the number of charge cycles. Upon reaching the threshold, the smartphone starts to sit down faster with each new charge.

The iPhone has an estimated battery life of 500 cycles, which is one and a half to two years of use. From the 501st cycle, the battery of the "apple" gadget begins to lose efficiency. After reaching the 1000th cycle, the battery capacity is usually only 50% of the original. You can find out the number of charge cycles on the iPhone using the program battery life.

Slow charging: what is the reason?

The reason that the smartphone is charging slowly, is hardly a malfunction of the gadget and its components. Most likely, the problem lies in the elements of the charger or in the power source.

If the smartphone is charged not from the outlet, but from the port of a laptop or PC, one should not expect that the battery will be filled “to the brim” in the usual time. USB port format 2.0 provides power in just 2.5W, whereas for recharging a battery with a capacity of 3000 mAp approximately 5 W. Better with the task of recharging gadgets, ports of the format 3.0 giving 4.5W.

However, if the laptop is equipped, then you can forget about connecting the smartphone to the outlet forever. A new type of USB is capable of charging devices with up to 100 W, which means that it will not be difficult to quickly fill the battery of a mobile phone and even a tablet through this outlet.

Poor USB cable quality and insufficient adapter specifications can also be the cause of slow charging. When choosing an adapter, pay attention to current power- an indicator expressed in amperes (A). Previously, this moment had to be taken into account - if the current power was low, the device was charging slowly or “did not get enough” capacity. At the same time, it was impossible to “go too far”; too much current could harm the battery. In 2019, this problem does not exist.

There is no need to worry about the fact that too powerful current will “burn” the smartphone - all gadgets have special charging controllers that do not allow more current to pass than the device can withstand. In addition, high-quality SZU has similar controllers.

How to charge your phone: the main rules

Users of mobile technology still remember the rule from the 2000s: discharge the phone to 0%, then charge it fully. This rule only applies to nickel batteries, which now you will not find "by day with fire." Most smartphones come with lithium-ion batteries that cannot be discharged to zero - this causes irreparable harm to them!

In recent years, manufacturers of mobile equipment began to receive information that in order to "maintain" the life of the battery, it should be kept at a level of 20 to 80%. Of course, you can go beyond these limits, but ideally you should follow the recommendations. In some modern gadgets, the function of automatically cutting off the power supply when the capacity reaches 80% is already implemented at the hardware level, or there is a corresponding option in the power settings settings. Representatives of the company Asus spoke about this mode. If there is no special function, then nothing prevents you from installing the appropriate software from PlayMarket or AppStore, which will perform a similar task.

• Do not leave a fully charged smartphone connected to a power outlet Especially all night long. This leads to overheating of the battery and, as a result, to a reduction in its life. To avoid disastrous consequences, the user should pay attention to impulse memory - how they differ from ordinary ones, we will tell later.
• Keep track of temperature. During recharging, the smartphone already heats up - if it is also left in the sun, then it can easily fail. Of course, the device should not be covered or hidden somewhere. All this is additional heating and, as a result, a possible breakdown. Do not forget that low temperatures are no less detrimental to the battery. The reference ambient temperature for charging is 20 degrees Celsius.
• Refuel your smartphone regularly- at least a little bit. Short-term charging is not a detrimental measure for modern lithium-ion batteries This has been proven by an organization called Battery Research and Manufacturing University (Cadex). In order to be able to feed the gadget in any conditions, it is worth purchasing the so-called power bank- external battery. Our site has already talked about how to choose an external battery for a smartphone.
• Once every three months (but not more often) completely discharge the smartphone and charge up to 100%. This measure will allow you to calibrate the electronics that are responsible for correctly displaying the percentage of charge. A user who neglects such a measure should not be surprised that his gadget "suddenly" turns off at 5-10%.
• To not allowdeep discharge . This concept means a long stay of the smartphone in a discharged state. The gadget is discharged and does not turn on- one of the most common complaints from users claiming warranty service.

An important point - if the phone is planned to be "mothballed", that is, they will not be used in the near future, the battery should be charged up to 50%. In this state, the device must be turned off. It is impossible to completely discharge or charge the smartphone before sending it to temporary rest.

The recommendation to use only original accessories for recharging is highly questionable. Of course, it is better to feed the gadget with the memory that was included in the kit. However, if it fails, the user will face a serious dilemma due to the understandable desire to save money - after all, the original accessory is two to three times more expensive than the universal one.

In fact there is no big difference between universal and original memory. If a universal charger for a smartphone is made by a well-known company, and not by a Chinese "know-name", it definitely will not ruin the gadget.

How to properly charge a new battery?

Following the advice to discharge and charge a new smartphone three times is a sure way to “ditch” the battery in the first days of use. So it was necessary to do this again with nickel batteries - as for lithium batteries, each complete discharge significantly reduces their service life.

Modern gadgets do not have special requirements for the first charge. Users do not need to believe in the “noodles” that consultants and “pseudo-experts” of thematic sites “hang on their ears”.

It is best for the smartphone owner to take the instructions, find what it says about the charging time, and leave the gadget connected to the outlet for the time indicated in the manual. After this time, you should turn off the device with 100% power supply and then follow the rules listed above.

How to choose a charger for a smartphone?

Many of the options to look out for when choosing a phone charger have already been mentioned in this article. In fact, for modern gadgets, SZU is selected according to the principle - the higher the current strength, power and voltage, the better. The fact is that a few years ago, powerful charging could very well burn the battery. In 2019, power supplies have controllers and modes that determine what exactly is connected to them and, based on this, they supply current with safe parameters.

Other options to consider when buying are:

• Type. All memory devices are conditionally classified into 2 types: transformer And impulse. Pulse ones differ in that they are equipped with timers that can automatically stop charging. The fast charging mode of a pulsed charger lasts about 4 hours - this time is usually enough for the battery to gain the bulk of its capacity. Then the energy begins to be supplied in small portions - "impulses" - so that the smartphone does not lose charge.

• Construction and design. One-piece chargers that do not allow the user to disconnect the wire from the power supply are a thing of the past. Purchasing this charger disadvantageous, because the owner of the gadget has to buy a USB cable “in addition” to it - if he intends to download data from a PC to the smartphone.

It is more expedient to purchase a cable and an adapter equipped with several ports.

Thanks to this adapter, the user gets the opportunity to charge two or more mobile devices. simultaneously- for this you just need to buy a second cable, which is much cheaper than additional charging.

When ordering a charging adapter from a Chinese website, the user should also pay attention to plug type. For Russian sockets you need European plugs- example in the figure above in the upper left corner. However, there is no particular point in ordering SZU in China today, Russian online stores offer a more than decent selection of high-quality devices with adequate prices. You can find the best options in our rating of wall chargers below.

The best mains chargers

Qumo 23714

Price: from 1,299 rubles.

Enough budget model with 3 USB-A outputs. The top one has support for Quick Charge (3.0, 2.0, 1.0) fast charging. Maximum current - 4.2 A, power - 18 watts. SZU automatically selects the necessary parameters for charging the connected gadget, and also has protection against power surges, overload and short circuit. An option for those who need to quickly and safely charge several gadgets and at the same time not pay a lot of money for it.

Aukey PA-Y9

Price: from 1,490 rubles.

The Aukey stylish charger is equipped with a reversible USB-C 5V/3A connector and a classic USB-A 5V/2.1A port. The total power is 25.5W. This will allow you to safely charge any gadget from the latest iPhone to any tablet. The body of the SZU is made of high-quality plastic with a Soft Touch coating. The plug, if necessary, is removed into a special niche on the case, which simplifies the process of storing the unit or carrying it with you.

MOMAX U.Bull (UM3S)

Price: from 1,690 rubles.

A model with an interesting design and an output for three connectors. This is a great option for charging Apple devices and any other expensive devices. The top 5V/5.4A USB-C port is designed to charge Type-C-powered MacBooks or laptops, while the bottom two 5V/2.4A USB-A ports are suitable for powering any mobile gadget. Total power - 28 watts.

The SZU received support for Automax technology, which is able to understand which device is connected to it and issue the appropriate current parameters for safe charging. In addition, protection against overheating, short circuit, high voltage is provided. The power supply comes with a silicone case (you can choose from red or blue) which has slots for attaching the power cable.

RIVACASE Rivapower VA4125 + Lightning

Price: from 1,890 rubles.

Not the most interesting SZU in terms of performance, but quite convenient and functional. The model is equipped with two USB-A c 5V/3.4A connectors with a total output power of 17W. This is enough to charge two smartphones or tablets at the same time. Includes a detachable 1.2 meter Lightning cable for charging your iPhone. The charger is available in white or black. A great option for those who need a power supply with a cable included for a reasonable price and with good quality.

Belkin F7U011vfSLV

Price: from 1,990 rubles.

Belkin accessories are the most loved by Apple owners. This is not surprising, since this company does not only high quality, but also very stylish. The model received two outputs - USB-C and USB-A. The first has a current strength of 3 A, the second 2.4 A, the total power is 27 watts. SZU is made of high-quality plastic with high wear resistance, as well as fire-fighting properties. The case is quite compact, which makes it convenient to carry it with you. Color: Silver. There is MFI certification.

ANKER PowerPort Speed ​​5 Ports 63W

Price: from 2,990 rubles.

Model designed for 5 devices at once. Suitable for those who have a lot of gadgets at home or in the office. All USB-A outputs, two ports support Quick Charge, the remaining three support PowerIQ (automatic selection of current supply parameters depending on the connected device). The device has a blue LED operation indicator - by which the user will be able to understand that the SZU is connected to the network. The accessory is small in size, all internal elements are hidden in a high-quality plastic case. The total power is 63 W, the maximum current is 12 A. There is MFI certification, that is, Apple officially recognizes this device as safe for its equipment.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, domestic users continue to stubbornly believe common myths about charging mobile devices. They don’t even suspect that, trying, for example, to drain the batteries of smartphones to the end, they are doing a disservice to their devices. Recommendations, deposited in the memory of users in the 2000s, are relevant for nickel batteries. In modern smartphones, there are lithium-ion batteries, the requirements for the care of which are completely different.

The failure of the battery is a nuisance familiar to almost any car owner. Most often this happens due to a discharge, and such a problem is quite simple to fix. You can restore the battery's performance using a special device - a charger (popularly - "charging" or "charger"). This device is very useful, and it is desirable for any car owner to have it in their arsenal. In this article, we will talk about how to choose a car battery charger and what to consider. Let's pay attention to such a variety of it as a starting-charging device (ROM).

Charger: what is it for?

The main task of both chargers (chargers) and start-charging devices is to charge the battery. Their difference lies in the fact that with the help of ROM, you can not only normalize the charge of the batteries, but also start the motor, if necessary. Chargers cannot help with starting, their function is limited only to charging the battery.

Most often, the car owner is faced with such a problem as a dead battery in the winter. Severe cold contributes to a decrease in battery charge, and also causes the oil in the power unit to thicken. As a result, when the key is turned in the ignition, the battery tries to turn the starter, but its power is not enough for this. Useless attempts to start the engine lead to the fact that the battery is completely discharged.

The reason for the insufficient charge it receives from the generator may also be the use of lighting fixtures and additional devices (for example, a heater). In this case, the generator power is not enough to provide full current, not only to charge the battery, but also to ensure the operation of all consumers. Therefore, the choice and purchase of a charger for a car battery is a matter for every car owner.

Constant driving in large cities also "exhausts" the battery. The level of charge provided by the generator is not enough in such cases, and the lack of electricity even in motion is replenished by the battery, which does not contribute to its durability.

The battery can also sit down due to the forgetfulness of the driver, this is not uncommon. Sometimes, having parked the car, a person leaves, forgetting to turn off the radio or headlights. A few hours in this case is enough for the charge to drop to zero, and then you can’t do without a charger.

Basic principles and methods of operation of the memory

All chargers for car batteries work according to a general principle: first, they lower the voltage in the supply network to a level corresponding to the battery rating, rectify the current, and then automate the charging process. Human intervention with a working charger is not required: just fix the charger terminals and plug the plug into the socket.

You can charge batteries in the following ways:

• Constant pressure. This method is characterized by a rapid start of the charging process, which gradually weakens and flows weakly at the end.
• D.C. The advantage of this method is fast charging, and the disadvantage is the accelerated "aging" of the battery, which it causes.
• Combined. This method is optimal and combines the advantages of the first two, which was taken into account by the manufacturers. Almost all modern chargers operate on this principle.

Choice of charger and its nuances

Before you go to the store, you need to familiarize yourself with the necessary parameters of the battery, as well as the on-board network. This information is provided in the instruction manual. Before you purchase a memory, you must compare the technical characteristics of the product with it.

We recommend not to chase cheapness and not to take Chinese chargers. It is better to opt for one of the domestic devices: for the most part, they are not much more expensive, and they are noticeably superior in quality to counterfeit devices. A simple Russian memory device equipped with a 5A ammeter is usually quite enough.

When choosing a charge, it is necessary that its operating current somewhat exceeds the battery capacity. Firstly, it is undesirable for the device to work at its limit, and secondly, a more powerful charger will come in handy if you need to charge a battery with a larger capacity.

It is desirable that the selected charging be automatic - this will allow you to charge the battery in a combined way. The choice of indication depends only on the preference of the car owner. Devices with light diodes are cheaper than those equipped with a control device, but their accuracy is also less - however, it is enough for motorists.

When choosing a charger, it is necessary to pay attention not only to its operating parameters, but also to compliance with safety requirements - fire and electrical. Automatic chargers for batteries meet these requirements to the full extent, in addition, they provide charging according to the combined principle, which is the most efficient.

Features of charging car batteries

The battery is considered discharged if the voltage supplied to it does not exceed 11V. Too low electrolyte density is also said:

• White color "eye" on the battery.
• Momentary voltage drop after turning on the headlights with the engine off.
• Difficult start of the power unit.

If the charger has an ammeter, then after connecting it, you must set the current strength on it. A number of sources recommend setting the indicator so that it is equal to 10% of the capacity of the battery being charged. We advise you to set the current at the rate of 5%. For example, if the battery capacity is 60A h, then we calculate the charge current indicator: 60A h x 0.05 = 3A. It should not be exceeded, since a reduced current will give a better charge. If the car owner is not in a hurry, it is quite possible to set the charge current to 2A. The initial voltage indicator should not be more than 12V - in the process of recharging, it will gradually increase.

The fact that the battery is fully charged will be indicated by an electrolyte density of 1.25 (checked by a hydrometer). The voltage at the terminals of the device in this case should be about 15V, and the value of the charging current should be in the range of 0.1 ... 0.3A.

Electrolyte density measurement with a hydrometer

You can extend the life of the battery by periodically discharging it. To do this, connect an ordinary electric light bulb to it so that it burns until the voltage drops to 10V. After that, the battery is put on charge.

Choosing a charger

In many modern car models, it is not recommended to disconnect the battery from the common circuit so as not to knock down the settings and installed programs. To recharge it right on the spot, chargers are used. But it will not work to start the motor using this device by connecting it to the general network of the vehicle. You will have to wait until the battery is charged to the required level. If you want the auxiliary device to be able to start the internal combustion engine immediately after connecting, it is better to purchase a starter-charger, selecting it according to the parameters.

Types of ROM

These devices, based on their capabilities, can be divided into the following types:

• Professional.
• Household.
• Combined.

ROM with 6-24V range

Professional start-charging devices can be connected to the batteries of cars, the operating voltage of the general network of which is 12V or 24V. With their help, you can start the engine of not only cars, but also minibuses. There are ROMs that can operate in the voltage range of 6V - 24V, and sometimes 6V - 36V.

Household starting and charging devices are designed to work in ordinary garages. Most of these devices are designed for a mains voltage of 12V, less often 6V - 12V. With the help of the latter, it is possible to start the power unit of a car or motorcycle, where the mains voltage indicator is 6V.

The combo ROM is essentially a welding inverter, the output current in which can be adjusted. Thanks to this, the device can be connected to the battery and the general network of the car. The advantage of such a device is its versatility, but for everyday use it is quite complicated.

Selecting a ROM for its intended purpose

When choosing a starting-charging device, you should first of all consider where the car is located when it is not being driven. If in a garage connected to the mains, you should purchase a stationary device. Modern devices are compact, take up little space in the room, and if necessary, they can always be quickly used.

Stationary device

If the car is parked in the open air (in a parking lot or even under the windows of a house), it is better to opt for an autonomous starting and charging device that has a built-in battery and is able to start the engine or recharge the vehicle battery without connecting to the electrical network. The disadvantage of a stand-alone ROM is that it needs special care - precisely because of the presence of its own battery.

standalone device

You should also decide which starter-charger by type to choose. It is better for owners of minibuses and other commercial vehicles to choose professional vehicles. For owners of cars, ordinary household devices are suitable. If the owner of the car is often engaged in welding work in the garage, the combined instrument will be the best choice for him.

Selection of a starting-charger according to technical characteristics

When choosing a ROM by parameters, you must consider:

• The type of battery installed in the vehicle.
• Output voltage. How to choose the type of device by voltage has already been considered, but there is one caveat. Starters and chargers themselves are durable, and if you have a 12V device, then it may well turn out that you buy a car with a 24V on-board network, and a workable ROM will be unusable in these conditions. Therefore, the best option, if funds are available, would be to purchase a device designed for operation in the output voltage range of 6V - 24V.
• The amount of current required to start the power unit. You can find it out by reading the technical characteristics of the machine, prescribed in the instruction manual. Also, the approximate value can be determined by the capacity of the battery. If it is 60 Ah, then the device must be designed for at least the same current. But it is desirable that the rating of the device exceeds the rating of the battery - firstly, so that the ROM does not work at the limit of its capabilities, and secondly, in case of a possible replacement of the car with a more powerful one.
• The amount of current needed to charge a battery. About what indicator you need to set for charging, it was described above, but the rating of the device must be at least 10% of the battery capacity.

Selection of a charging and starting device for equipment

Having resolved the issue with the necessary technical parameters, let's talk about how to choose a ROM for equipment.

To begin with, the device must be inspected visually. Its body part, as well as the controls located on it, must be well fixed; toggle switches, as well as switches, must function clearly.

To protect yourself from buying a low-quality product, you should check with the seller for the warranty period, ask him to present a quality certificate.

We encourage you to check out the additional features. It is desirable that the device is equipped with protection against incorrect connection, otherwise there is a risk, by accidentally mixing up the terminals when connecting to a battery, to disable the entire on-board network of the car.

It is also necessary to inspect the crocodile clips and wires to ensure their integrity and quality. The fact is that a strong current flows through the cables when starting the power unit. Poor-quality conductors will simply melt, and they will have to be changed.

"Crocodiles" are made of copper, while their thickness must be at least 3 mm. Thinner clamps may burn where they contact the terminals. It is also necessary to check whether the crocodile springs are pressed well. The pressing must be strong enough, otherwise, due to poor contact, the current will drop and the clamps will burn. Note that the presence of additional options for adjusting operating parameters is a big plus, therefore, the more of them, the better.

In this material, we figured out in detail how to choose a charger for a car battery and what needs to be considered. Most importantly, both the memory and the ROM must be of high quality and correspond in their parameters to the battery and the on-board network of the vehicle. Chargers and starting devices, unlike chargers, can only be used by disconnecting the battery terminals from the general network of the car. Please read the instruction manual carefully before using the charger. The right charger, when used properly, will greatly extend the life of the battery.

Almost every motorist faced such a problem as the discharge of a car battery. This phenomenon leads to the inability to start the engine. Unfortunately, most drivers remember the state of the battery too late, when it is already completely discharged.

In order to remedy the situation, it is necessary to use a special charger that can restore battery performance. The presence of such a device is especially important in winter, when battery performance deteriorates significantly.

The main patterns of selecting a charger depending on the battery.

Cars can be equipped with two types of batteries, and each type requires a different approach when charging.

1. The most popular battery models in passenger cars are acid (lead) devices. These current sources require constant systematic recharging.
2. Less common are alkaline batteries, which are made on the basis of nickel-metal hydride (Ni-Mh), lithium-ion (Li-On) and nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) plates. New alkaline batteries use a full three-time charge and discharge cycle to charge.

All chargers work on the same principle: devices lower the mains voltage, which is 220 volts, to the level of a 12-volt battery.

Types of chargers for charging batteries.

In terms of functionality, two main types of devices for charging a battery should be distinguished.

1. A charger intended only for restoring battery capacity. The device is connected to the battery using long wires, which allows charging directly on the car.
2. Chargers capable of operating in several modes:
   • restoration of battery capacity similar to chargers;
   • starting the engine with a fully discharged battery.

When connecting the charger to charge the battery, you must disconnect the power source from the on-board network.

Currently, various modifications of devices for charging car batteries are being produced. The choice of a particular model directly depends on the qualifications of the motorist.

For beginners, an automatic charger is better suited. The principle of operation of such a device is to automatically control the charging cycle. As soon as the battery capacity is restored to 100%, the device will turn itself off. In the future, automation will turn on the device to maintain a full charge of the battery. The five-stage charger independently performs the following actions:

Chargers, which are based on 5 basic stages of charging a car battery, work as follows:

• charges up to the 80% mark;
• produces 100% step-down charge;
• carries out preventive maintenance of the charge level within 95-100%;
• eliminates such a defect in the battery as sulfation of the plates due to the pulsed mode;
• does battery diagnostics.

The device, working on the principle of eight stages, functions as follows:

• removes the consequences of the sulfation process by the charge-discharge method;
• checks the performance of the battery;
• charges the battery up to 80% capacity;
• subsequent charging with decreasing current up to 100%;
• checks the ability of the battery to hold a charge;
• eliminates electrolyte stratification at maximum battery charge;
• maintains the capacity of the battery at the upper limit of capacity;
• performs preventive charging at around 95-100%.

Multifunctional stationary converters allow you to serve all types of batteries (acid, traction, alkaline), and can also be used as uninterruptible power supplies in a 220-volt home network.

What you need to know when buying a charger?

A car enthusiast who wants to purchase a charger must answer a few questions for himself. They will narrow the range of electrical appliances and simplify the selection procedure.

1. First of all, you should familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the car battery that will be serviced. The charger must provide a current of at least 10% of the battery capacity at an output voltage of 12 volts.
2. Next, you need to determine the price range that will suit the car owner.
3. An important issue when choosing a device for charging is the operation of a car in winter. If the car rarely leaves the garage in cold weather, a simple charger is enough. If you need to travel daily, it is better to consider purchasing a more powerful charger.
4. When the question arises of how to choose a particular charger for a car, you should get acquainted with the Boost function. When you turn on this mode in frosty weather, the battery is charged within a few minutes. After that, you can start the engine of the car.
5. Which charger manufacturer should you choose? For simple battery charging, inexpensive models of domestic or Chinese production are suitable. If the device will be actively used, then it is better to purchase a charger from a well-known manufacturer.

The importance of technical parameters when choosing a charger.

When choosing a charger for a car battery, you should pay attention to the following technical parameters of the device.

• The current of the charger must be sufficient to fully restore the capacity of the battery. The maximum current is set at 10% of the full battery capacity. So, to charge a battery with a capacity of 55 amperes per hour, a current of 5.5 amperes is set on the device.
• For experienced motorists, a charger with the ability to adjust the voltage and current strength is suitable. Switches can be with a smooth change of setting or discrete. The regulator, smoothly changing the parameters of the current, allows you to accurately set the required parameters. Thanks to this option, it will be possible to most effectively restore the battery by increasing or decreasing the current strength.
• The output voltage of the charger must match the parameters of the battery and the car's on-board network. Most cars and vans have a 12 volt mains voltage. Trucks require a 24 volt charger.
• Some devices have multiple charging stages. Thanks to the combined devices, it is possible to fully restore the battery capacity. In a simple three-stage mode, this happens:
  1. DC charging;
  2. constant voltage charging;
  3. keeping the battery charged.
• The charging stand must operate over a wide temperature range. This is especially important if you have to charge the battery in an unheated garage in winter.
• Automatic control of the device will simplify the task for novice motorists. It is enough to connect the positive wire of the charger to a similar terminal on the battery, and connect the negative wire to the "-" terminal, and the charger can be turned on. Automation will independently select the battery recovery mode and turn off in time after a full charge.

Video tips for choosing a charger:

Which manufacturers of car battery chargers have proven themselves in the market?

Motorists today are offered many models of chargers. How to choose a battery charger from the whole mass of different devices?

The modern automotive market offers motorists both domestic developments and products of world leaders. Among the most popular manufacturers among Russian motorists are the following companies.

• Aiken produces a wide range of electrical appliances, including devices for charging car batteries. The cost of the charger from "Aiken" MCB12M ranges from 1900-2000 rubles. Model MCB18M is estimated at 2500-2600 rubles.
• The well-known Italian manufacturer of welding machines and chargers "Telwin" offers products of the highest quality. The simplest units (Alpine 18 Boost and Speed ​​Start 1212) can be purchased for 2500-2700 rubles. For professional use, the Computer 48/2 ProF and DYNAMIC 620 Start models are recommended for 11-13.5 thousand rubles.
• The Russian company Caliber manufactures several devices for battery maintenance. For motorists, the ZU-100 device is offered, which is available at a cost of 1700-1800 rubles and is effective in use. The modification of PZU-2.0/12.0C will be of interest to car service workers. The cost of this charger is 6.5-6.6 thousand rubles.
• Battery chargers from Latvia under the Resanta brand are equipped with a battery, so you can start the car engine away from a source of electricity. The cost of the PU-1 model is 2300 rubles. The PU-2 device with a large input current (400 amperes), equipped with a flashlight, a USB connector and a compressor is sold at a price of 3600-3800 rubles.
• Inexpensive charging units are offered by Sorokin. The Sorokin 12.92 model has a small current (2 amperes), which will be enough to charge a battery with a capacity of 40 amperes per hour. You can buy such a device for only 970-1000 rubles.

How to make a do-it-yourself car battery charger?

You can make a simple device for charging a car battery with your own hands. This option is suitable for those motorists who know how to use a soldering iron and understand electrical circuits. To create a portable compact device, you will need the following components:

• step-down transformer with a power of 15-20 watts;
• diode bridge, consisting of 4 elements (1 ampere, 30 volts);
• capacitors;
• resistors;
• circuit breakers;
• voltmeter (0-25 volts);
• ammeter (0-10 amperes);
• switches;
• case made of plastic or metal;
• LEDs for lighting and signaling.

They must be connected according to the diagram above, and then you get a compact charger for a car battery.

Basic rules for operating the device.

Any charger requires minimal maintenance from the owner, as well as compliance with the basic rules of operation. With the right approach, both domestic and Chinese devices will work for a long time. Like any tool, the charger should have its place in the inventory in the garage or home, where dust, dirt and moisture do not penetrate.
The main recommendations for using the charger are as follows:

• before turning on the device, inspect the ventilation holes to prevent overheating of the charger;
• the current parameters in the garage network must correspond to the technical characteristics of the charger.
• before connecting the charger to the battery, it is necessary to clean the battery leads and terminals of the device;
• when connecting the charger to the battery, it is important to observe the polarity: the positive wire of the device is connected to the "+" terminal of the battery, and the negative terminal is attached to the "-" terminal;
• in the process of charging the battery, it is forbidden to disconnect the terminals of the charger from the battery terminals;
• when the charger is on, the car engine cannot be started;
• after the battery capacity is fully restored, the charger is first turned off, and then the wires are disconnected.

The top five car battery chargers.

Domestic charger without unnecessary bells and whistles. Fully automatic operation. There is a stabilization system, the charge current flows up to 5 amperes.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• modest size.

Flaws:

• lack of Boost charging mode;
• lack of indicators.

Average price: 2000 rubles.

Aurora Sprint-10D.

Aurora SPRINT-10D is positioned by the manufacturer as a device capable of resuscitating deeply discharged batteries with a voltage of 1.5 volts or more. The driver only needs to set the voltage of his battery and connect the terminals to the battery terminals.

The charger has a microprocessor that controls charging, monitors the main parameters and provides overcurrent protection. The output voltage can be set to 12 or 24 volts. The charging current takes a value from 2 to 6 amperes. The mass of the device is about 1.5 kilograms.

Advantages:

• multifunction device;
• the ability to adjust charging settings;
• the presence of a microprocessor.

Flaws:

• not small at all.

Average price: 5000 rubles.

Auto electrician T-1021.

This car battery charger is recommended for high capacity batteries. It will charge them quickly thanks to the charging current up to 8 amps. Not all expensive devices have such an opportunity.

When connected, Inelco Kee Power Medium performs a battery test and starts charging.

According to the manufacturer, desulfation is carried out simultaneously with charging. The charger has many additional modes, including accelerated charging in Boost mode. There is also a recovery mode for the battery after a deep discharge. There are all necessary types of protection.

The Inelco Kee Power Medium portable car charger can be connected to the car cigarette lighter and charge the battery without removing it from the car.

Advantages:

• the presence of the Boost mode;
• suitable for charging large capacity batteries;
• multifunctional modes;
• decent price for its quality;
• durability.

Flaws:

• short wires.

Average price: 3000 rubles.

Sonar UZ 201.

This is a 12 volt car battery charger. The current supplied to the battery to charge it is regulated automatically. Moreover, the upper limit is 5 amperes.

Advantages:

• compactness;
• light weight.

Flaws:

• lack of Boost mode;
• small value of current strength;
• the inability to adjust the current strength.

Average price: 1500 rubles.

What to choose anyway?

There are a huge number of charger models on the market, both imported and domestic. How to choose a charger for a car battery so that it is convenient to handle and lasts a long time? This question worries many motorists. The following can be said about this.

If a charger is needed from time to time, you should take a simple device without unnecessary functionality. For example, you will need it to charge the battery after the car is idle on vacation or before the cold weather. In this case, it is necessary to take an automatic device without any settings and switches.

If you need a charger for multiple tasks, you should take a multifunctional device. Here, the choice of options is limited only by the financial capabilities of the motorist. Those who have AGM and GEL batteries should choose special chargers for this type of batteries.

Each car owner must take care of the uninterrupted operation of the battery, the most important component of electrical equipment, without which it is not possible to start the engine. Battery failure as a result of a discharge is a fairly common occurrence, especially in winter, so the issue of purchasing funds that restore functionality is especially relevant for cold regions.

TOP 10 chargers for car batteries.

The battery does not produce electricity, it only stores it and then releases it. The battery is charged from the car's electric generator, but full charge is not achieved, so after some time the battery loses its charge, requiring the connection of external devices. At positive temperatures, the engine is able to start even from a half-charged battery, but start-ups are significantly reduced if the battery is not fully charged. Experienced motorists know how important it is to always have a life-saving tool on hand from sudden battery discharge.

The car market offers a countless number of all kinds of chargers of different quality and cost, but the choice of device must be approached with all responsibility. You should take into account the fact that not every charger can fit the battery of your car, so it is important to know what type of battery the car is equipped with. The rating of chargers for car batteries in 2018 will help you navigate among the variety of types and manufacturers. Here are collected devices with different characteristics in a wide price range of domestic and foreign production.

Types of battery chargers

Among the range of car battery chargers, you can find instances with additional options. In addition to the main function, they can perform many others, but the cost in this case will be much higher, so before buying, you need to decide which of the add-ons will really be used and whether the overpayment is worth it.

There are three main types of battery chargers:

• chargers are used exclusively to charge the battery;
• launchers are used to start the motor;
• chargers and launchers combine these two functions.

To start the engine using the device, it is necessary to connect to the power supply, so if the device is used only to restore the battery capacity, it is not rational to overpay for the function that provides the engine start. There are also portable chargers with their own rechargeable battery. Using a modern device of this type, you can start a car that has stalled away from power sources.

Charging and starting devices for batteries are:

1. Pulse. The advantages of devices of this variety are compactness and low weight, as well as the presence of protective mechanisms. They are more convenient to use, higher in cost than transformer chargers, but subsequently the purchase justifies itself. The principle of operation of pulse devices is based on the creation of high-frequency currents, for which large dimensions are unnecessary.
2. Transformer devices are much larger and it is inconvenient to have such a device with you all the time; they are usually used for stationary battery maintenance. The action of the device is to reduce the voltage by standard conversion. Transformer chargers are considered reliable, easy to repair, but heavy.

When choosing the best charger for a car battery, you should carefully study the characteristics of the devices, weighing all the advantages and disadvantages. In addition, you need to pay attention to the type and parameters of the battery, this information is contained in the vehicle's passport.

Main characteristics of chargers

The main task of each external charger is to restore the capacity of the car's battery, during which the alternating current from the 220 Volt network is converted into direct current - 12 Volts. To find out which charger is best suited for a particular battery, consider the most common:

1. WET are lead-acid batteries using a liquid electrolyte, they are installed on most cars, any charger is suitable for them.
2. AGM - batteries with glass fiber material.
3. GEL - battery with a gel-like electrolyte.

To charge an AGM or GEL battery, specially designed devices or universal devices are used that have a mode switching function in order to ensure interaction with these types of batteries. According to the setting method, chargers can be manual, semi-automatic or automatic. When buying, it is better to give preference to the latter, then the charging process is completely controlled by the software part of the device, and, if necessary, the shutdown is carried out independently.

Operating modes

Modern charger models allow you to choose the function of charging batteries with a gel-like or absorbed electrolyte. It is very important to ensure that the appropriate operating mode is set, because, unlike WET batteries, even a slight increase in voltage can lead to battery failure.

When choosing a device, ask about the availability of the “Boost” option, which involves fast charging with increased current. Thanks to her, the ability to start the engine will appear within a few minutes after the start of the process of restoring the battery capacity. In an emergency, this feature can be very helpful to the driver. Desulfation with the help of a charger reanimates the battery according to the principle of multiple charging, so the presence of this function can significantly extend the battery life.

The best automatic chargers not only cope with the process without your participation, following the specified algorithm when charging the battery and eliminating the possibility of overvoltage, but also recognize the capacity and discharge level of the battery, independently adjusting to the desired mode of operation. Some devices can simultaneously charge several batteries in series or parallel connection, but this feature is unlikely to be useful to an ordinary motorist.

The voltage issued by the memory

The output voltage is one of the key parameters of the device; it must match the voltage of the on-board network. The most commonly used batteries are 12 volts, so most devices are designed specifically for them, but there are also chargers that give out 24 volts, adapted to work with two 12 volt batteries (usually trucks or minibuses are equipped with them). The minimum voltage corresponding to 6 Volts is inherent in the battery of motor vehicles.

Charging current

The rated current is 10% of the battery capacity, so you can determine which charger is best for your battery by looking at the car's documentation. Thus, for a battery with a capacity of 60 A / h, the charge current should be 6 A. An exception is the option of accelerated battery recovery, but it should not be abused, since such measures can lead to rapid battery wear. Automated devices themselves choose the mode of current supply, but the best solution would be to purchase a device with an adjustable charge.

Types of protection and security

When choosing which charger to buy for a car battery, special attention should be paid to

Their presence of protection against overloads, voltage surges, incorrect connection of terminals, overcharging, will ensure stability and long service life of the device.

Popular charger models

The models of the top ten best chargers are presented in different price segments. When choosing the right device, it is important to have an idea of ​​​​the tasks that will need to be performed with it, so if the multifunctionality of the charger is unnecessary, then paying an impressive amount for it is inappropriate. Much more important is the quality and reliability of the device, as well as the originality of the product.

Top 10 battery chargers

Versatile charger with a wide range of features, including battery diagnostics and desulfation. The device provides operation at negative temperatures down to -20° C and can be used for 12 V batteries of various types. The device automatically carries out eight-stage charging with a charging current of 7 Amperes, has an IP65 protection class (from moisture and dust), and is safe for on-board vehicle electronics. The average cost of CTEK MXS 7.0 is 15,000 rubles.

Specialized charger, designed for sea and river vehicles, is used for all types of 12 V batteries with a capacity from 50 Ah to 500 Ah. Provides preventive maintenance, recovery, battery monitoring, quiet operation, has a night mode that further reduces noise. The device carries out eight-stage charging with a current of up to 25 amperes. CTEK M300 does not produce galvanic currents, so the device is not dangerous for the metal parts of the vehicle, it has an IP 44 protection class (outdoor use). The device is not cheap, its average price will be about 35,000 rubles.

The device, created using advanced technologies, is able to function in extreme cold conditions, suitable for all types of 12 V batteries with a capacity of up to 110 Ah. CTEK MXS 5.0 POLAR can be used for snowmobiles, ATVs, SUVs, passenger vehicles. A recovery function is available that returns the battery to working capacity. The main advantage of the device is a wide operating temperature range from -30° C to +50° C. An automated eight-stage charging system with a current of up to 5 Amperes, the process of which the user can follow on the display. CTEK MXS 5.0 POLAR is equipped with a well-insulated cable to ensure high-quality operation in cold weather, has an IP 65 protection level against moisture and dust, the average cost of the device is about 10,000 rubles.

The charger from the German manufacturer offers six modes of operation, automatically recognizes the type of battery, and provides charging at low temperatures. The device is suitable for 12 V and 24 V WET / GEL batteries with a capacity of up to 230 Ah (for 12 V) and 120 Ah (for 24 V), charges with a current of up to 7 A, has protection against short circuits, humidity and dust. You can buy the device at a price of up to 6000 rubles.

The device is compact in size with decent functionality, easy to use, provides a charging current of 5 Amperes for all types of 12 V batteries from 20 Ah to 160 Ah. The charger can be used at temperatures from -20° C to +50° C, has an IP 65 protection class, and desulfation is included in the options. The downside is the slow charging speed. The cost of the device will be up to 10,000 rubles.

The multifunctional device from the CTEK company allows you to use such options as diagnostics, prevention, battery recovery. The charger carries out an eight-stage charging of 12 V lead-acid batteries with a maximum capacity of up to 110 Ah at a current strength of up to 5 Amperes. Operating temperature from -20° C to +50° C, a unique display allows you to follow the process. The model is slightly inferior in characteristics to its counterparts, but it is distinguished by high quality, reliability and a pleasant price. You can buy a copy at a low cost within 8000 rubles.

. The maximum battery capacity is 12 V - up to 500 Ah, 24 V - 250 Ah, the charge is carried out at a current strength of up to 25 Amperes. The device has a degree of protection IP 20 (use only indoors). You can buy a unit by investing an average of about 9,000 rubles.

ORION PW 415

A pre-start charger from a domestic manufacturer, also distinguished by its design simplicity, is quite powerful, provides a charge of 12 or 24 V batteries with a capacity of up to 160 Ah at a current of up to 15 Amperes, charges quickly, and has protection against overheating. The average price is 2500 rubles.

In fact, these are just a few examples of those that are worthy of attention, there are still many high-quality products on the car market that meet the basic requirements for memory. Focusing on the main characteristics of the devices and their compliance with the battery parameters, you will be able to choose the right charger for your car battery, thereby meeting all possible unforeseen circumstances fully armed.

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The most common cause of battery failure is its discharge. To restore it, chargers are used. But different types of batteries can be installed on cars, and each of them requires a different approach to charging:

1. Acid or lead batteries are most commonly found in passenger cars. Such devices require regular recharging.
2. Alkaline batteries are used for heavy equipment. New batteries of this type are designed for a full three-time charge-discharge cycle.

Attention! If during the winter season, your car does not start, most likely the problem is in the battery. During this period, the load on the battery increases, because. the generator charge is not enough for the simultaneous use of the stove, the included headlights and side lights, so the battery is quickly discharged.

Types of chargers for car batteries

According to the method of operation, charging for the battery, there are:

1. Chargers. This type of charger only charges the battery or maintains the charge at a certain level. It can be connected to the battery without turning off the on-board network.
2. 2) Charging and starting memory. Such a charger performs two functions: it charges the battery and starts the car engine. This device is capable of delivering a large amount of current, enough to start a car engine, when not fully charged. But starting charges are larger and heavier, and therefore more expensive.

The following chargers are distinguished by functionality:

Automatic. The entire charging cycle takes place automatically. Those. as soon as the charge reaches 100%, the device turns off, and in the future it will automatically turn on to increase the charge level.

In five-stage chargers, the following steps are performed:

• The battery is charged up to 80%;
• using a reduced current, the battery is charged up to 100%;
• the charge level is maintained at 95-100%;
• there is a pulse mode to eliminate the sulfation of the plates;
• battery diagnostics.

Eight-stage chargers can:

• eliminate sulfation by charge-discharge method;
• check the capacity of the battery;
• bring the charge to 80%;
• recharge the battery with a reduced current up to 100%;
• diagnose the possibility of the battery, keep the charge level;
• do not allow the electrolyte to delaminate at a high charge;
• maintain battery performance at the maximum limit;
• prophylactically recharge up to 95-100%.

First of all, you need to pay attention to the following. indicators:

• Indicators of the current strength of the memory. They should be equal to 10% of the battery capacity. For example, with a battery capacity of 60 am / h, the charging current will be 6A;
• An important function is the ability to adjust the current and voltage, this will allow you to restore the battery as efficiently as possible;
• The voltage of the charger at the output must be suitable in terms of parameters for the battery and the on-board network;
• It is necessary that the charging stand work in a wide range of temperatures, especially if you have to work at sub-zero temperatures.

It is necessary to take into account the climatic conditions in which you will operate your car. If you rarely use your vehicle, then you can buy the most common charger. For those who regularly drive a car, it is better to choose a model with a Boost function, which allows you to charge the battery in the shortest possible time.

You should not buy a charger for a specific brand of battery / car. Because you can buy a new battery or change the car at any time, but you will have to buy a new device for recharging.

Advice! In case you plan to change vehicles in the future, choose a charger with 10% power reserve.

For beginners who are little versed in auto mechanics, it is better to purchase automatic chargers. They are more expensive than their counterparts, but will save you from many problems.

Be sure to read the instructions before purchasing. Ask the seller about the availability of additional functions (short circuit protection, charge adjustments).

Be careful when buying a memory of imported origin. The fact is that very often there are fakes that look little different from the original. It is better to purchase goods in large networks or give preference to domestic products.

When buying, be sure to ask for a receipt and a warranty card. If the seller does not want to give them out, it is better to buy elsewhere.

Popular brands of chargers

According to customer reviews, a list was compiled of the best memory manufacturers. These include:

1. Aiken, a company specializing in the production of electrical appliances, including chargers for 12 V lead-acid type car batteries. The cost of their devices ranges from 1800-2900 rubles.
2. The Italian brand Telwin produces both conventional models (Speed ​​Start 1212) and professional ones (Dynamik Start 620), with voltages from 4 to 12V. Therefore, the price range here is very wide: from 2500 to 14000 rubles.
3. The domestic Russian company Caliber produces chargers for both the average user (ZU-100) and car repair workers (PZU-2.0). Prices range from 1700-7000 rubles.
4. The Latvian company Resanta produces an "advanced" model PU-2, with a flashlight, a compressor and a USB input, it is sold from 3500 rubles.
5. The budget options include the memory of the company "Sorokin" - "Sorokin 12.92", with a current of 2A, for batteries with a capacity of 40A / h. Its price starts from 1900 rubles.

A charger is an indispensable thing for owners of their own cars, an important part for battery maintenance. Therefore, the money will not be spent in vain, it will pay off with the long life of the car battery.

How to choose a car charger: video