XTAR VC4
XTAR VC4 Charger User Manual
Model: VC4 | Brand: XTAR
Product Overview
The XTAR VC4 is an advanced four-bay battery charger designed for both Lithium-ion and Ni-MH rechargeable batteries. It features intelligent three-stage charging, a clear LCD display, and broad compatibility with various battery sizes. This charger prioritizes safety with multiple built-in protection mechanisms.
Image: The XTAR VC4 charger shown with its included USB power cable.
Key Features
- Advanced Charging Technology: Experience three-stage charging for safer, more reliable battery care.
- Universal Battery Compatibility: Accommodates a wide range of battery sizes and types, from 10440 to 32650, including Li-ion and Ni-MH.
- Intuitive LCD Display: Keep an eye on charging status with an easy-to-read, energy-saving LCD screen.
- Versatile Power Source: Charge your batteries using any 5V USB power source, including PD, QC3.0, and standard 5V adapters.
- Safety-Focused Design: Equipped with multiple protection mechanisms to prevent charging accidents, including over-voltage, over-current, and short-circuit protection.
Image: The XTAR VC4 charger is compatible with a wide range of rechargeable batteries, powering various electronic devices.
Setup Guide
- Unpack the Charger: Carefully remove the XTAR VC4 charger, USB cable, and user manual from the packaging.
- Connect Power: Connect the provided USB cable to the input port on the charger. Plug the other end of the USB cable into a 5V USB power source (e.g., a wall adapter, computer USB port, or power bank).
- Power On: The LCD screen will illuminate, indicating the charger is powered on and ready for use.
Image: The XTAR VC4 charger connected to a standard wall adapter, ready to charge Li-ion or Ni-MH batteries.
Operating Instructions
Inserting Batteries:
The XTAR VC4 features four independent charging bays. Each bay can accommodate different battery types and sizes simultaneously.
- Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on your battery.
- Align the battery with the corresponding markings in the charging bay. The spring-loaded negative contact allows for various battery lengths.
- Gently insert the battery into the bay. The charger will automatically detect the battery type (Li-ion or Ni-MH) and begin charging.
Image: The XTAR VC4 charger supports a wide range of battery sizes, from small 10440 to large 32650 cells.
Understanding the LCD Display:
The LCD screen provides real-time information about the charging process for each bay.
- CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4: Indicate the active charging channels.
- Voltage (V): Displays the current voltage of the battery.
- Current (A): Shows the charging current being applied.
- Capacity (mAh): Accumulates the charged capacity.
- Battery Type: Indicates whether the battery is Li-ion or Ni-MH.
- Charging Status: A bar indicator shows the charging progress. When full, the battery is charged.
Image: Close-up of the XTAR VC4's LCD screen, showing charging information and key components like the input port, LED indicator, anode, and cathode.
Charging Process:
The charger employs a three-stage charging method (TC-CC-CV for Li-ion and Pulse Charging for Ni-MH) to optimize battery life and safety.
- The charger automatically selects the optimal charging current based on the battery's internal resistance.
- Charging stops automatically when the battery is full.
- Remove batteries once charging is complete to prevent over-discharge.
Maintenance
- Keep the charger clean and dry. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the surface.
- Avoid exposing the charger to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or high humidity.
- Do not disassemble the charger. Refer to qualified personnel for any repairs.
- Store the charger in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Image: The underside of the XTAR VC4 charger, highlighting its non-slip rubber feet and heat-losing stripe cracks for efficient heat dissipation.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger not powering on. | No power supply or faulty cable. | Check USB cable connection and power source. Try a different USB port or adapter. |
| Battery not charging. | Incorrect battery insertion, battery too low, or faulty battery. | Ensure correct polarity (+/-). Some deeply discharged batteries may take time to activate. Try a different battery. Note: Protected 20700/21700 batteries cannot be charged. |
| LCD display shows "Null" or error. | Battery not detected or incompatible. | Re-insert the battery. Ensure it's a compatible Li-ion or Ni-MH rechargeable battery. |
| Charger gets warm during operation. | Normal operation. | This is normal. Ensure adequate ventilation around the charger. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | VC4 |
| Input Voltage | DC 5V / 2.1A |
| Output Current (Li-ion) | 2x 1.0A / 2x 0.5A |
| Output Current (Ni-MH) | 2x 1.0A / 2x 0.5A |
| Cut-off Voltage | 4.2V (Li-ion) / 1.45V (Ni-MH) |
| Compatible Li-ion Batteries | 10440, 14500, 14650, 16340, 17335, 17500, 17670, 18350, 18490, 18500, 18650, 18700, 20700, 21700, 22650, 25500, 26650, 32650 (Note: protected 20700/21700 batteries cannot be charged) |
| Compatible Ni-MH/Ni-CD Batteries | AAAA, AAA, AA, A, SC, C, D |
| Dimensions | 8.11 x 4.96 x 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 10.1 ounces |
| Special Features | Non-slip base, heat dissipation design |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official XTAR website or contact their customer service. A detailed user manual in PDF format is also available for download.
Official User Manual (PDF): Download Here