Compact Intelligent Charger
[ Home ]

[ Sign My GuestBook ] [ View My GuestBook ]

The Compact Intelligent Charger (CIC) is basically a scaled down version of the Intelligent Charger reviewed elsewhere on this site. Unlike the Intelligent Charger, it can only support up to a maximum of 4 AA/AAA sized batteries. Its specifications are as follows:

There are two modes of operation, charge and discharge. The yellow button located in the center toggles between the two modes. The CIC has two separate charging circuitries, each with its own LED status indicator. Like its bigger brother, the Intelligent Charger, it is also a microprocessor equipped smart charger that constantly monitors the capacities of the batteries. This will ensure optimum charge without the risks of damaging the batteries through overcharging.

Charge Mode

The CIC can charge 2/4 batteries at any one time. For partially discharged and fully discharged batteries, the CIC will begin charging using the ultra-fast charge mode. This is indicated by the red LED for the respective charging circuitry. Once the batteries are fully charged, it will automatically switch over to a trickle charge mode and the LED turns green. When the indicator turns green, the batteries can be taken out for use or they can be left in the compartment without damage. A small trickle charge current will be used to keep the batteries charged at optimum capacities. The CIC will not boost charge batteries which are already full charged, unlike typical time based chargers.

Discharge Mode

The CIC can discharge 2 batteries at any one time, using a discharge current of 300mA. Only the first two compartments on the left can be used for discharging. Once the batteries are almost discharged, CIC automatically switches over the charge mode and initiates the charging process.

Performance

Its a mixed bag of results. Compared to the Intelligent Charger, the CIC offers similar performance when charging 2 AA sized batteries. It is however, slower when it comes down to charging only 2 AAA sized batteries as it uses only 300mA of charging current. The true potential of the CIC is unleashed when you need to charge 4 batteries simultaneously. The CIC is capable of recharging 4 batteries simultaneously at maximum charge current! This is something not even the Intelligent Charger is capable of. 4 pieces of Mitsubishi 1600mAh Ni-Mhs, drained after some photo takings with my Olympus C-700UZ digital camera, only requires 2.5 hours for a full recharge. This is the fastest charger that I have come across for charging 4 pieces of AA sized batteries. You will not get such performance even with the pricey original Olympus BU-100 charger (which is capable of charging 4 pieces of AA sized batteries in 3.5 hours, very quick by any standards) from Japan. This is good news for owners of digital cameras, flash units, power drives/winders, etc. It means a whole lot less down time and you no longer need to purchase additional sets of chargers.

Conclusion

I strongly recommend the CIC and rechargeable batteries for photographers. Just for comparison's sake, a set of disposable Mitsubishi alkalines lasted only for about 13 shots (LCD switched on, without flash and about 45mins of PC connection) with my Olympus C-700UZ. Using a set of Mitsubishi 1600mAh Ni-Mhs, I managed to get about 65 shots (LCD switched on, 40 with flash and 2.5 hours of PC connection). The difference in performance is significant, not to mention the cost savings! For people on the move such as professional photographers, journalists, etc., get the optional 12V DC car adaptor kit and you can even charge your batteries in the car. You will always be ready wherever the action takes you to, without being caught off guard with dead batteries for your equipment.