User Instructions FAQs
Do I need to charge cells before first use?
Yes, all NiMH rechargeable cells must be charged before first use. Charge via USB or in an approved NiMH charger.
Self Discharge
All NiMH cells (including USBCELL) slowly discharge, at a rate of about 1% per day, when left unused. Because of this they should not be used in safety-critical applications such as fire alarms.
How long do USBCELLs take to charge through a USB port?
USBCELL will charge in about 5 hours to 90% charged, or sooner if the battery was not fully drained, and then enter a trickle charge mode (LED flashing). The LED will go off after this; your USBCELL is now charged.
Can USBCELL's be charged in NiMH battery chargers?
Yes. With the cap on, USBCELLs work just like a normal rechargeable NiMH battery. They can be charged in any good quality overnight or quick (5-7 hour) battery charger designed for Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. The recommended charge is 250mA for 7 hours. Consult your NiMH charger manual to confirm suitability. Do not use fast-chargers (rated over 600mA) that claim to take less than 1 or 2 hours.
What should I do when first opening the packaging?
USBCELLS are shipped with a low level of charge, and they should always be fully charged before first use. This is standard for NiMH rechargeable batteries which should always be charged before first use.
How do I take care of my USBCELL?
Will USBCELLs suffer from the ‘memory’ effect?
USBCELLs use NiMH chemistry that doesn’t suffer from the ‘memory’ effect seen with NiCad batteries. USBCELLs can be recharged hundreds of times, but the lifetime will reduce slightly if cells are always partially charged or topped up. Occasional top-ups when you need urgent power should not have a significant effect. The
User Guide gives instructions for how to prolong USBCELL’s life and maintain best performance.
Can the USBCELL be used in devices that normally take 1.5V (alkaline) throw-away batteries?
Yes, USBCELLs, like other rechargeable cells, should work with almost all AA-powered devices.
Do USBCELLs require drivers to work with my computer?
No, USBCELLs draw power from the USB socket and do not need any special drivers to charge.
Can I use fast chargers to charge USBCELLs?
USBCELLs should not be used with any charger rated at above 600mA. In general USBCELLs should not be charged by any charger that has a charge time of less than 2 hours.
Is USBCELL faster to charge than normal rechargable batteries?
USBCELL takes about 5 hours to charge, this is normally classed as fast charging. They will charge in the same time as other rechargeable batteries of the same capacity in a normal NiMH charger.
USBCELLs are 1.2v, what does this mean compared to a 1.5v Alkaline cell?
USBCELLs can be used in any device that works with a NiMH rechargeable battery. USBCELLs like other rechargeable batteries are 1.2v, compared to 1.5v in alkaline cells. They should not be used in any medical/safety devices that say use only 1.5v cells. Similarly some products with multiple cells in series, e.g. 4, may have more sensitivity to the net reduction in voltage.
