Product report Hitec X4 Plus charger

[Joel]

Hi,

I still use high capacity NiCADs in many of my models. I find that the chargers I have from decades ago are inadequate because of the low charge rates, accucycle, digipace... The high current multi chemistry chargers I have are fine but mostly single output. When I want to fly several of my models I have many big packs that need to be charged. I looked at the X4 and thought it might fit, multi chemistry and 50W per port ( X4 = 4 ports ). The NiCADs packs I have are 2000mAH+ 4 and 5 cell packs so the 50W per port fits nicely. Will also work fine with the lower cell count and/or capacity LiPo packs ( supports 1 - 6 cell ). I have used it a couple times now and it seems to work well. Reasonable to set up all the different parameters. Each port is completely independent and can be set up separately. The only real nit I have with it is its cooling fan. When it starts to get warm, instead of ramping a fan up, it pulses the fan full on and off. As I sit here writing this, instead of a low rpm constant fan, it is pulsing, kind of annoying. I do like the utility of this charger though. Was really pleased that it is in a metal case and feels substantial ( though the weight is probably the AC transformer ).

Joel

[bobk3597]

I have a Hitec X4 now as well (AC/DC version).

Previously, I used and still use a Hughes R/C four port charger. The Hughes does nice job but the Hitec has alot more options for other chemistry batteries. I was strickly NiMh until I bought the Hitex and can now use more types of batteries.

[Tom]

I have the DC version and gave away all my old chargers!

[Stew]

Joel,

Though you didn't list the old Ace Digipulse, often many people who have the Digipace also have the Digipulse and I wanted to add that with the Digipulse you can "double" the capacity charging capability by wiring 2 ports in parallel. Think of it as making a "Y" harness for the charger. With that, you can charge up to a 3000 mAh battery. I use this for charging the 2000 mAh Enelope cells in my transmitters. Just a little info that helps make the old chargers useful with the bigger capacity packs that we run today.

Scot