Lithium-ion Battery Charger
Lately have become very popular Lithium-ion batteries often abbreviated as Li-ion (no to be confused with Lithium batteries which are not rechargeable) primarily because of their high capacity - up to four times of an equivalent size NiMH, lack of memory effect and low self-discharge when not in use. However, Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are very expensive, not as durable as NiMH and NiCd batteries and can be very dangerous if mistreated. It may be also worth to keep in mind that Lithium-ion batteries are not available in standard cell sizes and that they come in different shapes and sizes.
Lithium-ion batteries require different charge algorithms than other types of batteries which means you need a Lithium-ion charger to charge Lithium-ion batteries. You can choose between different types of Lithium-ion chargers from different manufacturers and make you choice easier by reading some reviews or by purchasing a charger together with chosen batteries. Because Lithium-ion batteries come in different shapes and sizes it is worth to remember that a charger designed to accommodate their size and shape is required. A Lithium-ion battery charger should also include system to monitor charge and discharge.
Never try to charge Lithium-ion batteries in a charger for NiMH or NiCd batteries because they might explode and carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions for use. Keep in mind that Lithium-ion batteries should never get warm during charge. In case they do get warm unplug the charger and remove the batteries because either the batteries or the charger is defective.