I am now for some time, the proud owner of a Fenix- high LED flashlight - New version TK15, which is operated with 18650 batteries. In this context, I have made myself to the search for a suitable charger for lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries. Since the use of these types of batteries brings some dangers mitsich, I informed myself thoroughly in advance.
Caveat:
Since lithium batteries are prone to bloat with overcharging and open it up in smoke or in flames, should be set to reliable charging technology and battery technology. Some users warehouses and store these batteries are the refractory even only in so-called SafeBags. The use of protected cells brings a huge security gain here. But that was only mentioned in passing.
Because of the pricing framework, the Chargers NiteCore i2, UltraFire WF-139 and the TrustFire TR 001 were eligible. The latter are identical in design and technology used here. In the widespread flashlights "Community", chargers and batteries are subjected to extremely professional tests, which I can only recommend here. Just inquire of the Lord ... Google
Now the equipment of UltraFire and Trustfire be formally torn here in the air. Here the batteries are regularly overloaded, or driven into the protective mode, the chargers with battery heat up unpleasantly and so on and so while charging continues. From reliable charging technology can here be no question. The tests of NiteCore i2, however, were quite positive. Proper charging, proper limit, no significant warming, good workmanship.
The only fauxpars affords the charger, try to engage a deeply discharged Li-Ion battery (the earlier part of his opinion in the trash!). Here the charger detects incorrectly initially a NiMh battery and thus invites the bottle mode with excessive power ... But that is negligible in my opinion. I'm very careful to the batteries and press especially not the last energy from the battery in order to avoid precisely this deep discharge.
Anyone interested in the detailed test, has with charts and more, just Google the following keywords enter: "Mountain Prophet NiteCore i2 test"
After I got delivered the charger and the battery, followed by the first charging attempts. After plugging in, the power cord, the device starts a self-test and the LEDs light up in succession. If you put a battery in the wrong direction in the unit, the unit displays by blinking all three LEDs polarity reversal, and of course does not charge the batteries. My 18650 Li-ion batteries are correctly to 4.20 - 4,22V loaded and the unit heats up, in fact, almost not at all. Even the loading of different battery types is working properly ... the batteries are charged regardless of whether only one slot or both are occupied, with 500mA. That makes him not to fast charger, for me, it is for the safe charger at an unbeatable price! :)
In my opinion, the process is even to describe as very good really. Choice of materials and the feel are perfect! No sharp edges, tight fit of the battery in the bay, easy to understand LED display ...
Unlike other manufacturers, even the 12V cable for charging on the go, included.
All in all I am really convinced of this charger and forgiving full five stars with buy recommendation! Who on the search for a safe and reliable charger, will have his joy with this device!
Until then, best regards from the Taunus