Choose a battery charger. Car battery charger

A car charger is a very primitive device, consisting of only a few elements and capable of performing only one function: to recharge a smartphone from the cigarette lighter while the car engine is running. However, despite the simplicity of car charging for the phone, the choice of this accessory must also be approached very responsibly. A motorist using a low-quality memory runs the risk of being without means of communication at any time - if a charging failure occurs during a long trip, this will become a real problem for the driver.

How to choose a car charger for a smartphone: the main criteria

First of all, the motorist must decide what he needs: complete car charger or USB adapter. The adapter is an adapter from the cigarette lighter to the USB cable.

The adapter has a significant drawback: it turns into a completely useless thing if the motorist has forgotten the USB cable at home. Therefore, when contacting a communication salon, the driver is recommended to take a full-fledged memory - it costs only a little more than a USB adapter in retail.

Other criteria for the selection of AZU include the following:

Output current. To charge smartphones, a current of at least 1 A, and given modern smartphones, this may not be enough, so the best option is 2 or 2.4 A per port. If you choose an AZU with a current strength of 2 A, then the motorist will be able to recharge both the smartphone and the tablet. Worry about what the smartphone is from 2 A burn, it shouldn’t: modern gadgets are equipped with special charge controllers - devices that do not pass excess current. In addition, a similar controller is installed in high-quality chargers.

Output voltage. There is such a rule: the voltage prescribed in the technical specifications of the car charger for the phone should not exceed the value indicated on the gadget's battery by more than 5%. Otherwise, the AZU will overheat and fail very soon.

Length and type of wire. Experts unanimously advise taking an AZU with a twisted wire. The likelihood that the twisted wire will break (and this can lead to fire) is extremely small. In addition, the twisted wire is adjustable in length - a very useful feature, considering how diverse the interior of modern cars is.

Wire attachment. It is worth making sure that a corrugated sheath is present at the place where the wire exits the adapter. Here is what is meant:

The corrugated sheath prevents the wire from breaking at the bends. The fastening of the wire to the plug must also be protected by it.

Number of ports. This criterion is relevant if the motorist chooses a USB adapter. Optimal number of ports - 2 : both must have a current of at least 2 A. You can consider a AZU with a 1 A port, but only if the device is old or from the category of budget ones.

In addition, we should not forget that in 2019 the vast majority of smartphones have a Type-C connector, so you can consider a charging option that has one USB-A output, the second.

It is advisable to buy adapters with a large number of ports only for those motorists who are the heads of large families or simply large families. Otherwise, the driver will senselessly overpay for the accessory, because some of the ports will be idle.

Design. The driver should pay attention to the fact that there is no metal ring around the central contact of the AZU.

Since the charging case is most often made of plastic, sooner or later the metal ring will definitely fall off the thread and remain in the cigarette lighter of the car. A stuck part can close the contacts inside the cigarette lighter, and this is fraught with a fire. In fairness, it should be noted that AZU with metal rings are now on sale very rare, although earlier a significant part of the charges had just such a design.

A useful advantage in terms of design is the presence of an LED, thanks to which the driver can be sure that the ACS is working correctly. And in the dark, finding a charger is easier than trying to connect the cable by touch.

Otherwise, with regard to design, the motorist should rely on his own opinion. He, for example, may prefer a battery charger with an LED display that informs about the degree of charge and voltage of the car's battery.

However, such an accessory will cost approximately more than a conventional adapter.

What to buy: original or Chinese copy?

Buyers of expensive gadgets, as a rule, do not spare money for the best accessories - as long as nothing threatens their new mobile device. Such clients insist that they be provided with exactly original chargers, cables and USB adapters, because they believe that universal chargers can damage the battery of the device. But are they right?

More likely no than yes. If the buyer of the iPhone XS asks to sell him the original AZU, the consultant will probably offer the company's accessory Belkin- but not by Apple. By visiting the online store of the official Apple retailer in Russia Re:Store , the buyer will find in the catalog of accessories AZU companies Deppa, MOMAX, Juicies, Anker- but again there is no Apple-made charger there.

On the website of the "apple" company, you will not be able to find the original either. In fact, this means that Apple is not engaged in the production of its own AZU. Belkin and other eminent ones, of course, produces excellent accessories, but in relation to the iPhone, this company is still a third-party manufacturer.

Anker PowerDrive 2 PD/PIQ A2229H12 (Black)

Price: from 2,590 rubles.

Stylish and compact model from Anker has an excellent set of useful features. The device has two outputs - a classic USB connector and an additional Type-C output. For ease of use at night, a blue backlight is provided - it allows you to view the AZU in the dark and at the same time will not distract the driver from driving with a bright light.

Both connectors support Power Delivery and Power IQ, which are responsible for selecting the right power for different gadgets. In addition, the AZU is equipped with a function of protection against overheating, overload and short circuit. For those who are worried about their device, and this is especially true for owners of expensive phones from Apple, Samsung and other famous manufacturers, this charger will be the best choice - you don’t have to worry that the battery will be damaged or the device will burn out due to a power surge. There is no cable included, so it is recommended to use a branded one from the smartphone manufacturer.

Anker PowerDrive 2 Elite A2212011 (Black)

Price: from 1290 rubles.

A simplified version of the previous model, which differs in the material of execution. Carbon fiber makes the case ergonomic and visually interesting. The model received backlighting of the ports, there are two of them in total, type - USB A. Both outputs support PowerIQ technologies (automatic power selection depending on the smartphone model) and VoltageBoost (speeds up the process of accumulating battery capacity). In addition, there is protection against overheating, short circuit and overload. A great option for those who are looking for not the most expensive, but stylish and safe car charger for their mobile phone.

Conclusion

A driver choosing a car charger for a gadget should not pay attention to the price of the accessory and not look for the original AZU, since in most cases they do not exist. It is much more important to look at the characteristics, as well as the level of safety, which come down not only to the build quality, but to the materials used and the presence of protective controllers. Of course, a good AZU costs decently, but at least it’s stupid to buy a car charger for 300-500 rubles for the iPhone for 100 thousand rubles.

Chargers for car batteries are conditionally divided into two groups - solutions for gradual charging and start-charging products. The first option is different in that the current output does not exceed 8 A. In this case, the starter can consume current above 100 A. The second option provides for the return of a powerful pulse due to short-term action. This helps to scroll the power plant. As a rule, starting-charging products are used when you need to quickly start a vehicle. We propose to consider the rating of the best chargers for car batteries in 2018, taking into account the price / quality ratio.

Automatic battery chargers

The KEDR-AUTO-10 model opens the rating of automatic battery chargers, operating in several modes: autonomous (with current up to 5A), pre-start (10 A), cyclic (up to 5 A with alternating pauses). The developers recommend connecting an external load source to the battery. The fact is that there is no built-in load. A lamp will do the job. Clear advantages include simple operation, desulfation mode and affordable cost.

pros

• low cost;
• quickly recharges;
• desulfation mode;
• ease of operation.

Minuses

• the maximum current is not adjustable.

Another inexpensive car battery charger that attracts with ease of use. There is not a single regulator or switch. Based on customer feedback, the developers have equipped the product with only two indicators, each of which is located on the front panel. It should be noted that this product is designed for a fairly narrow segment of lead-acid batteries with a capacity of 45-70 Ah. It attracts with elementary work - a very simple automation scheme. You can not turn it off when trying to start the car, it will not burn!

pros

• price;
• elementary management.

Minuses

• there are none for this price.

Another domestic model that attracts with simple operation and low cost. It differs from the predecessor of the 12 V battery. Considering the opinion of independent buyers, it can be noted that this device has small dimensions. Easy to transport. Attracts efficient work, without failures. Well thought out additional protection against combustion. You can safely start the vehicle without worrying about the negative consequences. There are no obvious shortcomings - because the price is fully consistent with the quality.

pros

• price-quality ratio;
• stable work;
• optimal battery.

Minuses

• not found.

The best manual chargers

If you are planning to buy a manual car battery charger, pay attention to the Orion PW-265 model. It can be used to set the charging current for large capacity batteries. Also suitable for motorcycle solutions. In this case, the maximum current of the product is 6A. This is more than enough for cars. High-quality protection against overheating is provided. No need to worry about short circuit. The body is made of high quality materials.

pros

• voltage source can be adjusted;
• durable case;
• maximum current 6A.

Minuses

• no desulfation.

A good starter-charger developed in Tambov. This is the most powerful product in this rating, with a maximum current of 13 A. Continuous starting current in the range up to 170 A. The device is suitable for a large yard of car batteries, with a capacity up to 140 Ah. Moreover, both for 12-volt and 24-volt solutions. As part of the start, the starter should not operate for more than 15 seconds. However, this is enough to turn on a working power plant.

pros

• high performance;
• value for money.

Minuses

• can be damaged when shorting the terminals by accident.

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

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 can start even from a half-charged battery, but in winter, the chances of starting 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 2019 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.

Charging and starting devices for batteries are:

1. Pulse. The advantages of devices of this variety are compactness and low weight, as well as. 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.

Top 10 inverter chargers

Inverter (impulse) chargers are understood as car chargers that ensure the restoration of battery capacity in a fully automatic mode. This possibility is provided by an intelligent microcontroller that can analyze all the most important parameters of a rechargeable battery and, depending on these indicators, independently select the desired amperage and voltage at any given time. The user does not need to enter or change its settings during the operation of the device, while the inverter charger provides the most gentle charging conditions for the battery, which prolongs its life. A distinctive feature of such devices is high functionality provided by a large number of pre-configured parameters, as well as a high level of security. The main advantage of inverter devices is the protection of the battery from overcharging, which some types of car batteries really do not like.

The Korean charger can be called the undisputed leader in the rating in terms of price and quality of charging. The best pulse-type car battery charger in its category provides 9 modes of operation:

• testing the battery for its condition and correct connection;
• desulfation;
• soft charging for heavily discharged batteries;
• the main mode, providing up to 80% battery charge;
• absorption function when charging is carried out at a constant voltage with a dynamically decreasing current;
• recovery function, used when charging heavily discharged batteries during electrolyte separation;
• analysis of the battery for the ability to hold a charge;
• full recharging (using minimum currents);
• the “pulse” function maintains the maximum battery voltage in storage mode.

The device has protection against polarity reversal, overheating, overcharging and short circuit.

There is a protection system: against polarity reversal, overheating (overcharging) and short circuit. An added benefit is a three-year factory warranty. Able to work including with six-volt batteries.

In addition to the affordable cost (about 2.0-2.1 thousand rubles), it is characterized by high functionality, including the ability to remember settings.

The only drawback is the need to manually switch between 6/12 V modes - the model cannot independently distinguish between the nominal battery voltage.

Second place in the 2019 ranking of the best car battery chargers is taken by a professional model from a Swedish manufacturer. The CTEK MXS 25 pulse charger can only work with 12-volt batteries, but it supports batteries in a very wide range of capacities (40-500 Ah) at a maximum charge current level of 25 A.

Despite such impressive parameters, the device has a low weight (less than 2 kg.) and (235x65x130 mm.). Able to work with all types of lead-acid batteries (WET, MF), as well as gel and AGM batteries.

MXS 25, like the previous model, is a multifunctional device with support for 8 modes, including Supply, which allows you to use the charger as a power source and disconnect the battery while maintaining the basic settings.

Among the important functions, it is worth noting the possibility of diagnosing a battery for the ability to accept a charge, as well as hold it, the possibility of plate desulfation, detailed battery prevention.

Benefits of CTEK MXS 25:

• powerful charger can be used for all types of batteries;
• full automation of the memory in all modes of operation;
• five-year manufacturer's warranty;
• the presence of the Supply function, which allows you to save settings after disconnecting the battery;
• high level of protection (from moisture, mechanical damage, sparking, polarity reversal, short circuit, voltage drops, overcharging).

Unfortunately, there is also a drawback - the rather high cost of CTEK MXS 25 (about 35 thousand rubles).

The third place in the ranking of the best pulse chargers is occupied by another representative of the South Korean concern. This smart device has a good set of features and is of high build quality. It can be used to charge both six- and twelve-volt batteries, that is, it is a universal model.

The DW450 uses a self-developed microprocessor (upgraded ADC 12 Bit) that can evaluate the condition of the car battery and, based on this analysis, adjust the charging parameters, voltage and current, which optimizes the charging process and extends battery life.

Works with all types of lead-acid car batteries (WET/MF/GEL/AGM) with a capacity of 40-120 Ah.

Other advantages of the model:

• the presence of an informative digital display that displays the charging process in real time:
• diagnostic function;
• "winter" package that allows charging at low temperatures;
• protection against polarity reversal, short circuit, overheating, overcharging;
• budget cost (from 2200 rubles).

Unfortunately, there is no plate desulfation function, and one year warranty from the manufacturer is not too much.

A product assembled in Germany, by definition, cannot be of poor quality.

So if you are interested in which car battery charger is better, and the cost factor plays a secondary role, we advise you to pay attention to this particular model. It costs about three times more than its Korean counterparts, and this can be called the only significant drawback of the model.

AW05-1208 is a universal charger for which there is no difference what type of battery and what capacity to charge (within 10-160 Ah). True, it does not support six-volt batteries, but in all other respects the device is really good: it can charge slowly / quickly, test the connected battery and restore heavily discharged and sulfated batteries with a stratified electrolyte. There is a charge support mode: if you are leaving somewhere for a long time and do not want to let the battery run down, leave the charging on.

Advantages of the model:

• automatic detection of battery parameters (type, amount of charge, ability to hold it) and selection of the charging mode;
• excellent build quality and components;
• both network and interface cables are located on one side of the device, which does not cause inconvenience in work;
• The scope of delivery includes a hook with which the charger can be hung on the wall.

The product of a well-known Italian company closed the TOP-5 rating of automatic chargers for car batteries. Despite belonging to the middle price segment, this model managed to take a fairly high place due to the support of batteries of any type and high charge current. With STAR SM150 you can recharge batteries up to 225 Ah, i.e. even those used in commercial vehicles.

Such chargers are a frequent guest of companies with a considerable fleet of vehicles, they can be classified as semi-professional. With a relatively small size and modern design, car charging has extensive functionality, allowing you to reanimate hopeless batteries and work at low temperatures.

The device independently determines the operating modes depending on the parameters of the battery, using an intelligent microprocessor with built-in current and voltage sensors.

Note that the Deca STAR SM150 is manufactured at the San Marino plant, which guarantees high build quality and compliance. All stages of charging are displayed using LED indication, the lack of a display can be called the main drawback of the STAR SM150 (as well as the lack of support for 6-volt batteries).

This reliable universal charger combines affordable price and European quality. The Latvian model opens the second half of the top 10 pulse chargers for car batteries. The only model in this review that provides for charging 24-volt car batteries, which allows you to use the Vitals 2415ddca to recharge the batteries of both cars and trucks. The charging current can be selected manually, and switching within 3-15 A is performed smoothly. It is possible to simultaneously charge two 12-volt batteries connected in series (relevant for heavy trucks equipped with two batteries). An intelligent microprocessor provides battery testing, selection of the optimal mode, performance monitoring and completion of recharging with automatic shutdown of the device.

The metal shock-resistant case will protect the memory from mechanical damage, the presence of forced ventilation eliminates the overheating of the device.

Vitals 2415ddca fully complies with EU quality, safety and protection standards, and is able to restore the capacity of deeply discharged batteries.

Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the bulky case and the inability to recharge old batteries.

The brand name clearly indicates the high build quality, reliability and trouble-free charging, while at the same time being associated with the high cost of equipment of this brand. In this case, the cost cannot be called very high (6200-6500 rubles), but this is due to the relatively low level of charging current (the maximum value is 7 A). However, it is enough to recharge most car batteries.

Bosch C7 is one of the best car chargers due to its high level of safety and long service life. The intelligent microcontroller supports three operating modes of the model, which significantly expands the scope of its application (you can recharge a portable refrigerator, start the process of regenerating old batteries). The charger can work with all types of batteries, including gel ones. It has a compact size and a fairly large functionality.

Another budget memory. So if you think that excellent quality and low cost are incompatible concepts, then this model will significantly reduce your level of skepticism. At a cost of about 4,500 rubles, this device has impressive characteristics and extensive functionality - and what else is needed for successful market promotion?

The result was not long in coming: in 2016, the Einhell CC-BC 10M charger was recognized in Germany as the best in the nomination “Choice of the Year”. Unfortunately, the popularity of the model is so high that it is becoming more and more problematic to meet it in domestic car dealerships.

Compact size and bright, stylish and fashionable design only add points to this quality device. The built-in controller on microprocessors performs most of the operations in a fully automatic mode, from determining the type of battery to turning off the device when it reaches 100% charge.

The CC-BC 10M has all the features you need, from the recovery of badly discharged car batteries to the cold weather package. There is also a continuous charging function that allows you to leave the battery in the garage for an arbitrarily long time connected to the charger, without fear of overcharging.

Among the advantages of the model are the presence of an informative liquid crystal display, a convenient handle for carrying or using the device in a suspended state, a 6/12 V mode switch.

The only significant disadvantage is the lack of desulfation of the plates.

With an average cost of about 4200 rubles, this model can be considered one of the most affordable in our review, so its inclusion in the list of the best automatic chargers for car batteries is not at all accidental.

The device is able to recharge the battery through the cigarette lighter without requiring a direct connection (but only if the cigarette lighter is connected directly to the battery, bypassing the generator circuit).

Another distinguishing characteristic of the charger is the use of the proprietary PulseTronic system, which implements fully automatic operation of the device and allows you to implement the following functions:

• full protection of all electronic circuits;
• sparkless protection against polarity reversal and short circuit;
• strict control of the charging process;
• reduced battery heating;
• extended battery life.

The usual recharging mode is supplemented by an accelerated one (Boost function), it is possible to switch the recharging of two batteries of trucks. There is a choice of one of three modes of operation of T-charge 12.

The model is able to restore the charge of overly discharged batteries.

The disadvantage of the model is a small charge current (5 A) and support for batteries with a capacity of not more than 70 Ah.

CTEK MXS 5.0

The Swedish company is the only one to be included in the rating of the best car chargers of two different models.

What helped MXS 5.0, worth 12 thousand rubles, to gain a foothold in our top 10 flash memory? With its compact dimensions, this charger can restore even heavily discharged batteries. The Swedes are known to be obsessed with safety, so this device implements all levels of protection, including the protection of electronic components of the car. That is why this model is preferred by owners of expensive foreign cars - they may not be afraid of failure of their on-board computer and other electronic components while recharging the battery.

The microprocessor inverter provides 8 modes of operation of the device, and the build quality is so high that the manufacturer provides a five-year warranty on its products.

The only drawback, besides the high price, is the lack of a digital display.

Top 5 transformer chargers

The main difference between classic transformer recharging and inverter analogs is the absence of a microcontroller. In other words, the process of restoring the battery capacity does not occur automatically. This means that the car owner must monitor the ammeter readings to stop the process as it completes. Transformer devices can have a current charge regulator, while all of them are characterized by large weight and dimensions, which is due to the use of a transformer-type current converter. Despite a number of the shortcomings described above, this type of recharging is still very popular. The reason is simple - low cost, simplicity and reliability of the design, high maintainability.

The 2019 rating of transformer-type chargers for car batteries is headed by a charger of Italian origin, very popular in the Old World. The charge current of this model, as the name implies, is 16 A, which is enough to recharge batteries with a capacity of 20-200 Ah. With a weight of 4.5 kg. and decent dimensions Deca is very easy to maintain and unpretentious in operation. And although the charge mode must be set manually, it is not difficult, you also do not need to be afraid of overcharging the battery, since the device is equipped with appropriate protection. It can charge cars, SUVs, minibuses and trucks, and it is possible to connect two twin 12-volt batteries.

Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the short cable length - 2 meters for a heavy device is often not enough.

In our rating of transformer chargers for car batteries, this is the only model with the ability to both charge the battery in normal and accelerated (Boost) modes, and start the power unit with a fully planted battery.

To provide such an opportunity, the apparatus must be large and powerful. WDK Start620 is just that: at a charge current of 90 A, it provides a starting current of 560 A and a peak current of 620 A. The unit is capable of charging batteries of almost any capacity (up to 1000 Ah), and this is a record figure for our review.

Of course, the weight of the memory is appropriate - about 29 kg, it is possible to connect two 12-volt batteries. A high level of protection allows you not to worry about incorrect connection, as well as the risk of overcharging the battery.

In addition to its heavy weight (WeiderKraft WDK Start620 can hardly be attributed to mobile chargers), the device is characterized by a rather high cost (from 13 thousand rubles), but it can be used to restore the capacity of any, the most powerful lead-acid batteries.

The only Chinese charger included in the rating of car battery chargers - you must admit, this is a rarity in our time. However, we cannot say anything bad about this device, and the Forte company itself belongs to fairly well-known manufacturers. The combination of budget cost (2200 rubles) with good functionality is the key to the popularity of the CB-15FP. In principle, it can do everything that is required from recharging this type: there is a standard charging mode and Boost, it is possible to connect twin batteries from trucks, there is overcharging protection.

The maximum battery capacity for recharging is 135 Ah. The charging current is adjustable within 3.5-7.0 A. The front side of the device is made of impact-resistant plastic, the case is metal. The design is modern, the controls are simple and intuitive. You can monitor the charging process using the built-in ammeter.

The weight of the model is relatively small for a transformer type - 5 kg., There is a comfortable rubberized handle for carrying. The assembly is not bad, but clearly does not reach European standards.

The Taiwanese brand Garvin is well known to the Russian consumer. The company specializes in the manufacture of a wide range of power tools, including chargers. Model Charge GE-CB220 is a strong middling. At a cost of about 8,000 rubles, the device is able to restore the capacity of lead-acid batteries, including paired 24-volt ones. There is a normal and accelerated mode, the latter provides 2-3 times faster recharging, but it is not recommended to use it for completely discharged car batteries. The charger is adapted for Russian conditions (it can work in frosts down to -40°C).

There is protection against overloads, overheating and short circuit, the case is shockproof and wear-resistant. The model deserves to be presented in the rating of car battery chargers, and if it were not for the high cost, the place would be higher.

Elitech UZ 20/12

The only domestic model in our review, and not the cheapest. At a cost of 3600 rubles, it provides charging of lead-acid car batteries with a capacity of 90-180 Ah, including 24-volt truck batteries. The charge current can take two values ​​- 7 or 12 A. It weighs just over 7 kg, which is quite acceptable for this class of chargers. The case is wear-resistant, the design is modern, there is a built-in ammeter to control the charging process. There is protection against overheating and short circuits.

But we believe that it’s better to pay extra and purchase an inverter model, with which you won’t have any extra worries at all - turn it on and leave. In addition, the choice of such devices is much wider. Transformer models are gradually but inevitably disappearing from the shelves of car dealerships.

The battery is an important element of any car that requires care and timely maintenance. In the process of driving, the battery is charged from the generator, but this is not always enough for its normal operation. Short trips around the city, severe frosts, connection of powerful energy consumers - all this can lead to the fact that at the most inopportune moment the car will not start.

Starting device

The charging current of the device is indicated in the range, for example, from 6 to 12 A, or from 15 to 40 A. The higher the maximum value, the more current can be supplied when charging, therefore, the charge will be replenished faster. It is recommended to act according to the following algorithm: the current strength for charging should be 0.05 - 0.1% of the battery capacity. Let's say you need to charge a 77 Ah battery. A simple calculation is made: 77x0.05 = 3.85 (A). This means that a battery of such a capacity should be charged with current.

Additional functions

The simplest starting devices have signal LEDs for monitoring operation. Traditional chargers and chargers have a pointer or digital indicator to control the charging current. It is not needed automatically, since the process does not require control - only LEDs can be on the panel, for example, connections to the mains.

Stand By mode keeps the vehicle's on-board system operational when the battery is out. Useful if the car has a lot of sensitive electronics.

Boost mode charges the battery in an accelerated mode at an increased current. It will help in an emergency when you need to urgently recharge the battery before a trip. The timer - an addition to the Boost function - is needed to select the time for accelerated charging. After the process is completed, the current supply stops automatically.

Pulse charging in automatic devices allows you to maintain a full charge of the battery for several months. It will be useful for storing the battery when the car is not in use. You can not even remove the battery and not disconnect it from the on-board network.

Desulfation is a mode for pulsed devices, which involves working with current in a pulsed mode to reduce the risk of sulfates on the lead plates of the battery. Helps extend the life of lead-acid batteries.

The memory function saves the charge cycle settings during a temporary power outage. After the resumption of its supply, the process continues with the same parameters and from the same stage at which the charging was interrupted.

Reverse polarity protection will be useful for all batteries. It provides for a fuse that trips when the terminals are shorted or incorrectly connected to the battery. Protects both the device and the battery from damage.

Reference article based on the expert opinion of the author.

But it may happen that one day the car simply won’t start for the simplest reason: the headlights, the radio tape recorder, the backlight in the cabin that haven’t been turned off since the evening - are there any reasons for discharging the battery? And how to be in that case? Run and buy a new battery?

It is in such cases that a car battery charger helps out the car owner. Of course, you can’t charge the battery in seconds, you’ll have to wait, but still, don’t throw away a serviceable battery.

But what if you really need to urgently go, and the battery is completely discharged? There is also a way out in this case. There is a car charger called a start-charger (a similar device is sometimes called a charging battery), it just allows you to start the car, and then you can already provide the rest of the work on the discharged battery to the generator.

It makes sense to figure out what chargers for car batteries are, what types they can be, and what are their specialized work areas.

Types of chargers

Of course, when purchasing such a device, it is worth considering for what purpose it is being bought. All people are different, someone is a little distracted and may forget to turn off the lights in the car, and someone is pedantic and attentive. Yes, and at a cost, such car chargers differ, depending on the number of functions that they can perform.

There are two main types of such devices: charger and starter-charger. The remaining additional options invested in them are already at the discretion of the motorist.

Car battery charger

Such devices are designed to charge a car battery gradually, over several hours. Usually the battery is removed and brought into the house, where it is connected to the device. It can be the simplest, without protection (these were produced a very long time ago, but many still have them). In this case, you will have to follow the arrow of the ammeter. When falling by 0.1-0.3 A, the charger must be disconnected. This means that the battery is fully charged.

Newer models have a safety shutdown. It works when the battery is fully charged or the plates are shorted.

By the way, if you are “lucky” to buy an alkaline nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery, then you will need to cycle “charge-discharge” at least three times. Otherwise, after a couple of months (maximum six months), it will have to be thrown away.

Starter chargers

Some, of course, may think that it is not worth overpaying, and you can also start the engine with a charger, but this would be a very wrong decision. The fact is that to start the car's starter takes on a current of about 250-300 A. Therefore, turning the engine once (and possibly not turning it), at best, the charger will automatically turn off. Well, at worst, after such an experiment, you will have to buy everything new - both the battery and the charger.

The advantage of a starter-charger is that it can briefly give out a high power current, which is enough to start the car.

Well, now, having dealt with the types of chargers, you can move on to the question of choosing such a device, taking into account the necessary functions.

Choice of charger

To choose the right charger for the battery, you need to consider some of the nuances. The very first thing to do is to study the battery data. Without them, it will not work to choose a memory, it may simply not be suitable in terms of technical parameters. And further. Nowadays, a lot of Chinese products have appeared on store shelves, and they are, most often, of dubious quality. Therefore, it is best to purchase Russian devices. In this case, you can be sure that a fake will not come across.

The most convenient are automatic chargers with a built-in ammeter. When choosing, it is advisable to take a car charger with a small margin of maximum current, which should be 10% of the capacity of the battery being charged. For example, if the battery is 60 A / h, then the maximum possible load on it should not exceed 6 A, and charging at 3 A will be optimal, i.e. 5%.

If, when charging, it is not possible to adjust the current strength, then the device will automatically select the optimal mode itself, which will be more useful for the battery.

The output voltage must also be taken into account. The battery can be 12 or 24 V (on motorcycles, the voltage of the on-board network is 6 V).

Secondary functions

Chargers can have many additional features. When purchasing, it is advisable to choose those that can really come in handy. These include a protective shutdown in case of incorrect polarity. In other words, everyone can make a mistake by connecting the negative wire to the plus and vice versa. The function of protection against overheating and short circuit in the battery will also be useful.

Sometimes the "Cycle" or "Desulfation" button can be very helpful. The fact is that during the operation of an acid battery, sulfate deposits form on the plates over time, which interferes with the normal operation of the battery. The battery starts to discharge quickly and accepts a charge just as quickly. In this case, it makes sense to try a similar mode, and if the battery is not completely out of order, then it will be possible to revive it.

The essence of desulfation is that short-term high-current charge pulses are applied to the terminals, alternating with the load. Thus, sulfate crystals are destroyed, and it becomes quite possible to delay the replacement of the battery.

What to look out for

When purchasing a device for charging car batteries, it is imperative to visually inspect the device. The case must be stable, regulators, toggle switches and buttons should not raise doubts about performance and quality. If the autocharger or any part of it even at first glance seems to be of poor quality or dangles, it is better to refuse such a purchase.

You also need to inspect the terminal clamps - their springs must be rigid, dense, and the copper thickness cannot be less than 3 mm. Otherwise, they will simply burn out when charging.

It is mandatory that the seller has a certificate of conformity for the selected battery charger model.

In terms of technical equipment - the more additional protection, the better. This will help save the device in case of any emergency.

It is also necessary to ask the seller if there is a guarantee for this product. It must be remembered that a car charger is a complex device, and no one is immune from factory defects, low-quality parts, or simply the sloppiness of the assembler.

Accumulator charging

The main rule before turning on the device is to study the instructions. Do not neglect this in order to avoid emergency situations and failure of the memory, battery or on-board network of the car.

The best option for charging the battery is to completely remove the battery from the car, and if this is not too laborious, then it is better to bring the battery home. If you have to charge "on the spot", then the wires of the on-board network from the battery must be removed.

Further, without including the charger in the network, its wires are connected to the battery - first red "+", then black "-". After that, all the necessary modes are set and power is supplied (if the battery charger is automatic, then nothing needs to be set).

If the battery is serviceable, then you need to open the covers from above. At the same time, if this is not the first charge of the battery, you can notice the time interval after which the electrolyte begins to boil and, comparing with previous charges, understand whether the battery needs desulfation. If the indicated time is greatly reduced with the same charging mode, this indicates the formation of crystals.

Of course, when charging, you can also set the maximum current allowed for the battery, if such an urgency occurs, the battery will charge much faster, but the battery is harmed and its service life is reduced. It must be remembered that it is better not to use such charging (or use as little as possible).

Features of the charger

Starter chargers may also have some additional features that should be considered when purchasing. The fact is that before going to the store for yourself, you need to decide what kind of device you need - stationary or portable. The stationary one works only from a 220 volt network, and its use is possible either in an electrified garage, or using a bunch of extension cords, which is clearly not very convenient.

The portable charger has a built-in battery. It can be charged at home and used at the right time for its intended purpose anywhere, which, of course, is more convenient. But such a device costs a little more. In addition, do not forget that a rechargeable battery is installed in it, and it also requires maintenance, and sometimes replacement.

But, of course, these shortcomings are justified. After all, it can happen for everyone that, being late for work, it is impossible to start, and there is no one to “light up”. Of course, such launchers and chargers are indispensable in such a situation.

Rare features

Sometimes in start-up chargers, and in ordinary chargers for cars, there are functions that would not hurt to be installed in all such devices by default. One of them is to check the battery for the car for performance. After all, not all batteries are serviceable, and therefore it is impossible to determine whether one of the “cans” has closed, although the voltage in the battery will drop after charging almost immediately. A similar function helps to determine this instantly, upon connection.

It is also very convenient to measure and control the battery capacity. At the same time, information on the charging time and the amount of current received by it will be displayed on the display that the battery charger is equipped with.

And in general, it is best to purchase a device for charging car batteries with the maximum possible number of functions and settings, both in terms of voltage and the strength of the supplied current, and also do not forget about information functions. Only then will it be possible to control every action without relying on the program.

Of course, if necessary, on such multifunctional devices it is possible to turn on the automatic mode.

In addition, it must be remembered that, provided that the battery is completely discharged (the headlights were left on at night), then by turning on the car charger in automatic mode, it will not be possible to charge the battery. The device simply does not see the response to the pulse applied to the battery, because. it is completely absorbed by it, and stops charging, believing that there is no battery at all. In this case, it is necessary to switch the charger to a pulse, give it time to work a little, and only after that turn on the automatic mode.

Summarizing

Well, it makes sense to once again go through the points of necessary functions when purchasing a charger for car batteries:

• The output voltage matches the voltage of the on-board network.
• The maximum current strength is above 10% of the battery capacity.
• Manual setting of charging parameters with the ability to turn on automation.
• It is desirable to start-charging, although it is more expensive.
• Mandatory presence of the desulfation function.
• Opportunity to check functionality.
• Battery capacity test function.

It is necessary to remember about the mandatory inspection of the device and checking all documentation for it.

If you follow these simple rules, you can get satisfaction from acquiring a good battery charger, which in the future will help out more than once in a difficult situation from which no one is immune.