1. Product Overview
The XTAR VC4 is a universal smart charger designed to charge a wide range of rechargeable batteries. It features an intuitive LCD display that provides real-time charging information for each battery slot. With four independent charging bays, it can simultaneously charge different battery types and sizes.
- Charges almost all types of rechargeable batteries including 10440, 14500, 16340, 18350, 18650, 25500, 32650 Li-ion, and Ni-MH AA, AAA, C, D batteries. (Note: VC4 cannot charge protected 20700 and 21700 batteries.)
- Intelligently selects charging currents from 0.1A to 1A, with 500mA and 1000mA options. Max charging is 1000mA when 1 or 2 batteries are inserted in CH1 & CH4.
- Digital LCD display automatically detects battery status and shows each cell's voltage, type, charging current, and charged capacity independently.
- Built-in protections include overcharge, over-discharge, short circuit, and reverse polarity protection for safe operation.
2. Package Contents
- 1x XTAR VC4 Universal 4 Slots Household Battery Charger
- 1x USB Cable
- 1x User Manual
- 1x Hop-pocket (storage pouch)
Note: Wall adapter is not included. The charger adapts to any 5V USB power source.
Figure 1: XTAR VC4 Charger and included accessories.
3. Setup
- Connect Power: Connect the provided USB cable to the input port on the XTAR VC4 charger. Plug the other end of the USB cable into a compatible 5V USB power source (e.g., USB wall adapter, computer USB port, power bank).
- Initial Display: Upon successful connection, the LCD display will light up, showing initial readings for the channels.
Figure 2: Connecting the USB power cable to the charger.
4. Operating Instructions
- Insert Batteries: Carefully insert rechargeable batteries into the charging slots. Ensure correct polarity (+ and - ends) as indicated on the charger and battery. The spring-loaded contacts will adjust to fit various battery sizes.
- Automatic Detection: The charger will automatically detect the battery type (Li-ion or Ni-MH) and begin charging. The LCD display will show real-time information for the inserted batteries.
- Monitor Charging Status: The LCD display provides comprehensive information:
- Charging Current: Indicated by a tachometer-style gauge.
- Voltage: Current voltage of the battery.
- Charged Capacity: Displays the mAh (milliampere-hour) charged into the battery.
- Battery Type: Shows whether it's Li-ion or Ni-MH.
Figure 3: LCD screen displaying charging information.
- Charging Current Selection: The charger intelligently selects the most suitable current. For CH1 & CH4, the maximum charging current is 1.0A. For CH2 & CH3, the maximum charging current is 0.5A. If 1 or 2 batteries are inserted in CH1 & CH4, they will charge at 1.0A. If more than 2 batteries are inserted, the current will adjust accordingly.
- Error Display: The LCD display will show "Err" for reverse battery insertion or "null" for short-circuited/broken batteries.
Figure 4: Error messages on the LCD display.
- Charging Completion: The charger will automatically stop charging when the batteries are full. The display will indicate "Full" or show the final voltage.
Video 1: Demonstrates the XTAR VC4 Universal Battery Charger in operation, showing battery insertion and display functionality.
5. Maintenance
- Keep the charger clean and free from dust and debris.
- Store the charger in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Do not charge damaged or inferior batteries.
- Avoid dropping the charger or subjecting it to strong impacts.
6. Troubleshooting
- Charger not powering on:
- Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the charger and the power source.
- Verify that the 5V USB power source is functioning correctly.
- Battery not charging / "Err" or "null" displayed:
- Check battery polarity. Reinsert the battery with the correct orientation.
- The battery might be short-circuited, damaged, or not compatible with the charger. Do not attempt to charge severely damaged batteries.
- Ensure the battery contacts are clean and free from corrosion.
- Slow charging:
- Ensure your 5V USB power source provides sufficient current (at least 2.1A recommended for optimal speed).
- Charging current automatically adjusts based on the number of batteries and slots used. Refer to the "Charging Current Selection" section.
Video 2: Shows the XTAR VC4 charger's display and basic operation, including how it handles different battery types and charging states.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | VC4 |
| Input | DC 5V 2.1A |
| Output Voltage | 4.2 Volts |
| Constant Current | 0.5A x 4 / 1A x 2 (CH1 & CH4) |
| Cut-Off Voltage | 4.2 ± 0.05V / 1.45V ± 0.1V |
| Cut-Off Current | ≤ 120mA |
| Operating Temperature | 0 - 40°C |
| Product Dimensions | 4.53 x 5.87 x 1.38 inches |
| Item Weight | 7.4 ounces (0.46 Pounds) |
8. Safety Information
- Use only with compatible rechargeable batteries.
- Do not disassemble or modify the charger.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not expose to water or high humidity.
- Do not operate if the charger or cable is damaged.
9. Warranty and Support
XTAR products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official XTAR website for detailed warranty information and customer support contacts.
For further assistance, you may contact XTAR customer service directly or the seller from whom you purchased the product.
