Should I charge IDX batteries when they are already full? at DVinfo.net

Scott Jaco · June 28th, 2006, 08:12 PM

I'm using the IDX E7's

If it has been longer than a week since my last charge, I like to charge the batteries again the night before the shoot.

Does this make sense? How long does a fully charged battery hold it's charge before losing some voltage?

Could I be damaging the batteries by charging them when they are fully charged? Are there any benefits to "topping off" the batteries in this manor?

Gary Morris McBeath · June 28th, 2006, 10:21 PM

Scott:

If they are Nickel Metal Hydride or Lithium Ion batteries, they will have some self discharge when left to sit, so "topping" them off shouldn't hurt anything, especially if you are using one of IDX's chargers that shut off or the LEDs go green when charged.

I've used the same sets of IDX Li-Ion batteries for over 4 years now, and always top them off frequently.

Now, Ni-Cad is a different story, and, at least for the older types, should be "deep cycled" occasionally, or they can develop the "memory effect". Newer ni-cad batts and newer chargers with better charging algorithyms may have eliminated that need. However, I've no experience with them. Best to contact IDX to make sure.

Gary Morris McBeath
SaltAire Cinema Productions

June 28th, 2006, 08:12 PM	#1
Scott Jaco Major Player Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Sherman Oaks, CA Posts: 471	Should I charge IDX batteries when they are already full? I'm using the IDX E7's If it has been longer than a week since my last charge, I like to charge the batteries again the night before the shoot. Does this make sense? How long does a fully charged battery hold it's charge before losing some voltage? Could I be damaging the batteries by charging them when they are fully charged? Are there any benefits to "topping off" the batteries in this manor?

June 28th, 2006, 10:21 PM	#2
Gary Morris McBeath Regular Crew Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Steilacoom Washington Posts: 72	Scott: If they are Nickel Metal Hydride or Lithium Ion batteries, they will have some self discharge when left to sit, so "topping" them off shouldn't hurt anything, especially if you are using one of IDX's chargers that shut off or the LEDs go green when charged. I've used the same sets of IDX Li-Ion batteries for over 4 years now, and always top them off frequently. Now, Ni-Cad is a different story, and, at least for the older types, should be "deep cycled" occasionally, or they can develop the "memory effect". Newer ni-cad batts and newer chargers with better charging algorithyms may have eliminated that need. However, I've no experience with them. Best to contact IDX to make sure. Gary Morris McBeath SaltAire Cinema Productions