XTAR VC2L Multi-Chemistry Battery Charger Instruction Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the XTAR VC2L Multi-Chemistry Battery Charger. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your charger. Please read it thoroughly before use and retain it for future reference.

Package Contents

The XTAR VC2L package includes the following items:

• XTAR VC2L Charger Unit
• USB Type-C Cable
• Instruction Manual

Setup

Follow these steps to set up your XTAR VC2L charger:

1. Connect the provided USB Type-C cable to the charger's input port.
2. Connect the other end of the USB cable to a compatible 5V 2.1A USB power adapter (not included). The charger's LCD screen will light up.
3. Once the screen is active, carefully insert the batteries into the charging slots, observing the correct polarity (+/-).

Caution: Always connect the power supply first before inserting batteries. Inserting batteries before connecting power may cause a short circuit.

Image: The XTAR VC2L charger showing its Type-C input port and available charging current selections.

Operating Instructions

Compatible Battery Types

The XTAR VC2L charger is designed to be compatible with a wide range of rechargeable batteries:

• 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion/IMR/INR/ICR batteries: 10440, 14500, 14650, 16340, 17335, 17500, 17670, 18350, 18490, 18500, 18650, 18700, 20700, 21700, 22650, 25500, 26650. (Note: 20700 and 21700 batteries with protection boards can be charged.)
• 1.2V Ni-MH/Ni-Cd batteries: AAAA, AAA, AA, A, SC, C.

Important: 1.5V Li-ion AA/AAA batteries are not supported by this charger.

Image: The XTAR VC2L charger illustrating its compatibility with different battery sizes and types.

Charging Current Selection

The charger supports flexible charging current options:

• 2A for 1 slot
• 1A for 2 slots
• 0.5A for 2 slots

The charging current can be selected by pressing the button on the charger. The charger will automatically detect the battery type and select an appropriate current, but you can manually adjust it if needed.

Caution: Do not charge Ni-MH batteries with high internal resistance at high currents. Avoid using 9V 2A high-voltage adapters, as this may lead to overheating and other safety risks.

LCD Display Information

The smart LCD display provides real-time information about the charging process:

• Voltage (V): Shows the current voltage of the battery.
• Charged Capacity (mAh): Displays the amount of capacity charged into the battery.
• Charging Current (mA): Indicates the current charging rate.
• Battery Type: Identifies whether the battery is Ni-MH or Li-ion.

Image: A close-up of the XTAR VC2L's LCD screen, detailing the real-time charging information.

0V Battery Activation Function

The VC2L charger features a 0V activation function that can revitalize deeply over-discharged or old batteries. Simply insert such batteries into the charger, and it will attempt to reactivate them before initiating the charging process.

Note: Severely over-discharged batteries may not be recoverable. Even if reactivated, they may not be suitable for high-current discharge. Damaged batteries cannot be reactivated.

Safety Features

The XTAR VC2L is equipped with multiple safety protection functions to ensure safe charging:

• Over-temperature Protection: Prevents overheating during charging.
• Short-circuit Protection: Protects against short circuits.
• Over-discharge Protection: Safeguards batteries from excessive discharge.
• Over-charge Protection: Stops charging once batteries are full.
• Over-voltage Protection: Protects against excessive voltage input.
• Reverse Polarity Protection: Prevents damage from incorrect battery insertion.
• Automatic Power-off: Shuts down in case of abnormal conditions.

It is normal for batteries to generate some heat during charging. The charger automatically stops charging when batteries are fully charged, so there is no need to worry about safety during the charging process.

Image: Visual representation of the XTAR VC2L's comprehensive safety circuit protection mechanisms.

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, as this will void the warranty and may cause damage.
• Store the charger in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Troubleshooting

Error Messages

The LCD display may show error messages to indicate specific issues:

• "Err": Indicates battery reverse connection. Ensure the battery is inserted with correct polarity.
• "Null": Indicates an over-discharged or damaged battery. Try the 0V activation function for over-discharged batteries. Damaged batteries cannot be recovered.
• "Full": Indicates the battery is fully charged.

Image: The XTAR VC2L charger's display showing common error and status messages.

If the charger is not functioning as expected and no error message is displayed, try the following:

• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the charger and the power adapter.
• Verify that the power adapter is providing sufficient power (5V 2.1A recommended).
• Test with a different, known-good battery.
• Clean the battery contacts on both the charger and the battery.

Specifications

Warranty Information

The XTAR VC2L charger comes with a 1-Year Warranty Against Manufacturer Defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. This warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, unauthorized modification, or normal wear and tear.

Customer Support

For technical assistance, warranty claims, or any questions regarding your XTAR VC2L charger, please contact XTAR customer support through the retailer where you purchased the product or visit the official XTAR website for contact information.