Battery Chargers
Many new portable appliances and electronic devices use
rechargeable batteries. Cars, boats, and motorcycles are also
equipped with rechargeable batteries. How do battery chargers
differ for each type of battery? What are the different options
for recharging batteries?
Auto and marine and truck batteries are 12 volt batteries.
Chargers for 12 volt batteries are much more advanced than
traditional versions. Battery chargers such as the Battery
Minder charge batteries without overcharging which can ruin
a battery. Another very useful tool for auto and marine
batteries are jump starters. Many newer models are portable and
can jump start up to 30 cars without having to be recharged. A
great model is the PowerTank jump
start equipped with a florescent light and battery tester. Solar
battery chargers are available for a wide range of devices. ICP Solar chargers
are great for people on the go.
Cell phones, PDAs, and other small electronic devices use
different chargers than auto or marine batteries. Typical small
appliance battery
chargers are wall or desk mountable. They can charge
batteries much quicker than conventional battery chargers. Some
even pop out the battery when it is fully charged to avoid the
"memory effect" that is common with NICD batteries.