1. Introduction
The XTAR VC8 is an advanced 8-slot battery charger designed for a wide range of rechargeable batteries, including 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion (such as 18650, 21700, 26650) and 1.2V Ni-MH (AA, AAA, C) types. It features an intuitive LCD display, multiple charging currents, and specialized functions like grading mode to test real capacity and storage mode to maximize battery lifespan. This manual provides essential information for safe and efficient operation of your VC8 charger.
2. Product Features
- 8-Slot Versatility: Charges up to 8 batteries simultaneously, supporting various sizes including protected 21700, 18650, 20700, 10440, 18700, 26650 Li-ion, and Ni-MH AA, AAA, C batteries.
- QC3.0 Fast Charging: Includes a QC3.0 wall charger, enabling a maximum 3A current for a single slot (CH1/CH8) when battery resistance is low.
- Selectable Charging Currents: Offers 5 optional currents (3A, 2A, 1A, 0.5A, 0.25A) for user selection, allowing optimized charging based on battery type and capacity.
- Grading Mode (CH1-CH4): Tests the real capacity of batteries through a "charging-discharging-charging" cycle, helping identify overstated or underperforming batteries.
- Storage Mode (CH1-CH4): Charges or discharges batteries to their rated voltage (3.7V for Li-ion) for optimal long-term storage, maximizing battery lifespan and ensuring safety.
- High-Definition VA LCD Screen: Provides clear, real-time information on charging status, voltage, current, capacity, and internal resistance.
- Type-C Powered: Utilizes a common Type-C port for power input, compatible with most modern phone adapters.
- Advanced Safety Features: Built-in high-precision MCU and real-time temperature control protection system prevent over-current, over-charge, over-voltage, and short-circuiting. Automatically stops charging when batteries are full.
- Durable Construction: Made from flame-retardant and fire-resistant ABS materials for enhanced safety and longevity.
3. Package Contents
Upon opening the package, please verify that all items are present and in good condition:
- XTAR VC8 Battery Charger (batteries not included)
- QC3.0 Wall Charger (Black)
- USB-C Cable
- User Manual
Figure 3.1: Contents of the XTAR VC8 Charger package.
4. Setup and Connection
- Power Connection: Connect the provided USB-C cable to the Type-C input port on the back of the XTAR VC8 charger.
- Wall Adapter: Plug the other end of the USB-C cable into the QC3.0 wall charger.
- Power Outlet: Insert the QC3.0 wall charger into a suitable power outlet. The charger's LCD display will illuminate, indicating it is ready for use.
Figure 4.1: Connecting the Type-C power cable to the XTAR VC8 charger.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Inserting Batteries
Carefully insert batteries into the charging slots (CH1-CH8), ensuring correct polarity (+ and - ends). The charger will automatically detect the battery type (Li-ion or Ni-MH) and display relevant information on the LCD screen.
Figure 5.1: XTAR VC8 charger with batteries inserted, displaying charging status.
Figure 5.2: The XTAR VC8 charger can accommodate and charge up to eight 21700 batteries at once.
5.2 Understanding the LCD Display
The high-definition VA LCD screen provides real-time data for each slot:
- Voltage (V): Current voltage of the battery.
- Current (A): Charging or discharging current.
- Capacity (mAh/Wh): Accumulated capacity during charging or discharged capacity during grading.
- Internal Resistance (mΩ): Displays the internal resistance of the battery.
- Battery Type: Indicates whether the detected battery is Li-ion or Ni-MH.
- Charging Status: Progress bar and "Full" indicator when charging is complete.
5.3 Selecting Charging Current
The VC8 charger offers five selectable charging currents: 3A, 2A, 1A, 0.5A, and 0.25A. To change the current for a specific slot:
- Press the "Mode" button to select the desired channel group (CH1-CH4 or CH5-CH8).
- Press the "Curr." button repeatedly to cycle through the available current options for the selected channels.
- The charger will automatically apply the selected current. Note that 3A is only available for CH1 and CH8 under optimal conditions.
Figure 5.3: Display showing various current options for charging.
Figure 5.4: Detail of the 3A fast charging slot on the XTAR VC8.
5.4 Grading Mode (Capacity Test)
The grading mode is available for slots CH1-CH4. This function tests the true capacity of your batteries:
- Insert batteries into CH1-CH4.
- Press and hold the "Mode" button until "Grade" appears on the display for the selected channels.
- The charger will first fully charge the battery, then discharge it to measure its capacity, and finally recharge it. The measured capacity will be displayed.
This process helps identify batteries with degraded performance or overstated capacities.
5.5 Storage Mode
The storage mode is also available for slots CH1-CH4. This mode prepares batteries for long-term storage by adjusting their voltage to an optimal level (typically 3.7V for Li-ion):
- Insert batteries into CH1-CH4.
- Press and hold the "Mode" button until "Store" appears on the display for the selected channels.
- The charger will either charge or discharge the battery until it reaches the optimal storage voltage.
Using storage mode helps prolong the overall lifespan of your batteries.
5.6 Instructional Video
For a visual guide on the XTAR VC8 charger's features and operation, please watch the official product video below:
Video 5.1: Overview of the XTAR VC8 8-bay 18650/21700 battery charger, demonstrating its features and compatibility.
6. Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your XTAR VC8 charger, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the charger's surface. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure no dust or debris accumulates in the charging slots.
- Storage: Store the charger in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Avoid dropping the charger or subjecting it to strong impacts.
- Material Quality: The charger is constructed from flame-retardant and fire-resistant ABS materials, designed for durability and safety.
Figure 6.1: The XTAR VC8 charger is built with safe and durable materials.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger not powering on. | Loose cable connection, faulty power adapter, power outlet issue. | Check USB-C cable connection. Ensure QC3.0 wall charger is firmly plugged into a working outlet. Try a different outlet. |
| Battery not charging / "Null" displayed. | Incorrect battery insertion, battery too low voltage, faulty battery. | Re-insert battery ensuring correct polarity. Some deeply discharged batteries may take a moment to be recognized. Try a known good battery. |
| Slow charging speed. | Low current selected, high internal resistance of battery, non-QC3.0 power source. | Ensure appropriate current is selected (e.g., 1A or 2A). Use the provided QC3.0 wall charger. Batteries with high internal resistance will charge slower. |
| Display shows error message. | Short circuit, over-voltage, over-current, or temperature anomaly. | Remove the battery immediately. Check for any foreign objects in the slot. Allow charger to cool down if hot. Re-insert battery carefully. If problem persists, the battery may be faulty. |
8. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | VC8 |
| Input Voltage | 5 Volts (USB-C) |
| Output Voltage | 4.2 Volts (Li-ion), 1.45 Volts (Ni-MH) |
| Charging Current Options | 3A (CH1/CH8), 2A, 1A, 0.5A, 0.25A |
| Compatible Battery Types | 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion/IMR/INR/ICR (10440, 14500, 14650, 16340, 17500, 17670, 18350, 18490, 18500, 18650, 18700, 20700, 21700, 22650, 25500, 26650); 1.2V Ni-MH/Ni-CD (AAAA, AAA, AA, A, SC, C) |
| Display | High-definition VA LCD Screen |
| Dimensions | 10.35 x 6.18 x 1.73 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds (499 Grams) |
| Manufacturer | ShenZhen XTAR Electronics Co., Ltd |
| Date First Available | December 27, 2019 |
9. Warranty Information
XTAR products are manufactured under strict quality control standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official XTAR website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
10. Customer Support
Should you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your XTAR VC8 charger, please contact XTAR customer support through their official website or the retailer from whom you purchased the product. Provide your model number (VC8) and a detailed description of the issue for efficient assistance.
