Xtar VP2 intelligent Li-ion battery charger 2 channel

Good quality Li-ion cells are not cheap so it pays to have a good charger. Brand new in 2014, the VP2 charger is basically the same as the excellent VP1 charger with a few extra features. It can be used as a USB powerbank and has selectable charging current.

Overview

Multi-functional independent channel 2 cell lithium ion (LiIon) & lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery charger with sliding contacts to fit and charge a variety of battery sizes.

Features & Benefits

• 2 cell independent channel charger suitable for charging 3.6V/3.7V/3.8V LiIon cells or 3.2V LiFePO4 cells in the following sizes:
  • 10440, 14500, 14650, 16340, 17670, 18350, 18500, 18650, 18700, 22650, 25500, 26650.
• Selectable charging currents of either 250mA (±30mA), 500mA (±50mA) or 1000mA (±80mA).
• Charge re-activation if cell voltage drops below 3.3V (LiFePO4) / 3.9V (LiIon) when cells are left in the charger to keep ready for use.
• Uses algorithm based three-phase charging (TC-CC-CV).
• 0V discharged cell wake-up function - soft charge start > constant current > constant voltage charging.
• Reverse polarity protection.
• Short circuit protection.
• Overcharge protection.
• IC temperature monitoring and low heat design to prevent overheating.
• Charging specifications:
  • Input voltage: 5.0VDC/500mA
  • CC (constant current stage) charging rate: 500mA (±10mA)
  • CV (constant voltage stage) charging rate: 4.2V (±0.05V)
  • Cut-off current: <40mA
• Real time status display and LED charge indication.
• For use as a powerbank: insert a charged compatible cell and use the VP2 as a powerbank* for mobile devices:
  • USB output voltage: 5.0V ±0.3V
  • Max. USB output current: 1000mA
  • Automatic shut-off when cell voltage drops to ≤3.0V ±0.2V.
    • LED green: cell capacity ≥50%
    • LED red: cell capacity 25-50%
    • LED flashing red: cell capacity ≤25%

*VP2 only operates as powerbank when no external power source is connected.

Package Includes

• VP2 Charger.
• SAA, MEPS approved Australian 100-240VAC input plug.
• 12VDC cigarette lighter car input plug.
• Manual and warranty card.

Comprehensive Reviews:

This charger is a nice update to the VP1 charger and like the VP1 I will call it a very good charger. ------HKJ
LINK to full review