Battery updates:
Reading the attached article says go and buy some real quick
http://www.rchobbies.org/lithium_batter ... hrough.htm
Helicopter guys are using them so they must be pretty good when you consider the big power usage they need.
Some of the key points are:
2 cells in series = 7.4 volts
Wiring two LiPo cells in parallel doubles the capacity (more run time), plus an important advantage of wiring in parallel is that each cell only sees half the total current
To charge a fully depleted pack typically takes about one and a half hours
LiPos don't develop memory or voltage depression characteristics like Ni-Cds. Do charge them without the worry of cycling or discharging them
Don't: Fully discharge your LiPo battery pack.
They are not the cheapest but hell they sure sound good when you read up on them - because of the no memory effect recharges are when you want and the larger capacity ones - 4000mah 2 cell are around $100USD but only weigh 180gms. Physical size is 125mm x 50mm x 20mm so may not fit most IOM's but the 12 ain't a problem!
Smaller packs are - 1320mah 60 x30 x12 mm and weigh a staggering 58 gms!!!!!!!!! These can discharge at a whopping 17A avergae with peak of 26A which can handle an RMG fine. These are around $35 USD so say 70 bucks landed for us kiwis. Pretty reasonable.
Next time the nicads start dropping off these will be on the shopping list
Please Note:
*****WARNING***** Charging Lithium Polymer batteries with incorrect charger WILL CAUSE FIRE, AND EXPLOSION. Please make sure your charger supports charging Lithium Polymer batteries. If you do not have an appropriate charger, please order one
Chris
NZL1 Longtack
NZL110 Swept Away NZL128 Ketch me if U Can