Alternative smart charger - the
Powerex WizardOneRather nicer than the Technoline BL-700, even if that's working well.
I've got a bit of a down on the BL-700 as mine managed to cook a set of 2700 AAs severely enough to start to melt its own casing. AAAs won't fit properly now.
According to the instructions with the WizardOne, the best charging rates are in the 2 to 3.5 hour range (for a full charge - 700 to 1250mA for 2500mAh AAs). Too fast and you risk damage, too slow and the end-of-charge detection becomes unreliable.
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As well as the longer shelf life, the Hybrio type seem to do better at living up to their stated capacity. I've had some over spec, but normal 2700 AAs down to 2300 or lower (as shown on BL-700).
"Hybrio type" = Uniross Hybrio, GP Recyko, Sanyo Eneloop, Ansmann MaxE
plus various others advertised as "pre-charged" or "ready to use" from Synergy, Duracell, Camlink, Hama, Powerrman, Powergee ...
They are all about the same capacity (2100 AA, 800 AAA) and apparently there are only 2 or 3 manufacturers, despite the multitude of brand names.