XTAR Dragon VP4L Plus Battery Charger User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the XTAR Dragon VP4L Plus Battery Charger. This intelligent charger is designed to charge and analyze a wide range of rechargeable batteries, including 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion, 1.2V Ni-MH, and 11.1V 3S battery packs. It features advanced functions such as battery analysis, testing, and refresh modes, along with a convenient USB output. Please read this manual carefully before use to ensure safe and optimal performance.

Image 1.1: XTAR Dragon VP4L Plus Battery Charger with its accessories.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Failure to follow these safety instructions may result in fire, electric shock, or injury.

• Only charge compatible battery types: 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion, 1.2V Ni-MH, and 11.1V 3S battery packs. Do not attempt to charge 1.5V batteries.
• Do not disassemble, modify, or short-circuit the charger.
• Keep the charger away from water, moisture, and high temperatures.
• Use only the provided power adapter.
• Ensure proper battery polarity when inserting batteries into the charging slots.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Built-in protective circuits guard against overcharge, over-discharge, over-voltage, short-circuit, and temperature.

3. Package Contents

The XTAR Dragon VP4L Plus package includes:

• 1 x XTAR Dragon VP4L Plus Charger
• 1 x EU 12V 3A Power Adapter
• 1 x Charging Bag
• 1 x Set of Test Probes
• 1 x 3A Car Adapter
• 1 x User Manual

Note: Batteries are not included in the package.

4. Product Features

• Multi-Chemistry Compatibility: Charges 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion, 1.2V Ni-MH, and 11.1V 3S battery packs.
• Advanced Analyzer & Tester: Precisely measures battery voltage and internal resistance using included probes.
• Real Capacity Test: Accurately tests the actual capacity of batteries to determine if they are overrated.
• Refresh Mode: Eliminates the memory effect in Ni-MH batteries and quickly tests Li-ion battery capacity by discharging and recharging.
• Selectable Charging Currents: Offers 0.5A, 1.0A, and 2.0A charging currents to optimize battery lifespan.
• 0V Activation Function: Can revive over-discharged 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion and 1.2V Ni-MH batteries.
• USB Output Function: Provides a 2.4A USB output for charging external devices, even simultaneously with battery charging. Can also function as a power bank with Li-ion batteries inserted.
• High-Quality LCD Display: Shows charging current, battery status, capacity percentage, battery type, channel, voltage, resistance, mode (Charge/Test/Refresh), 3S Pack/USB output status, and phonic reminders.
• Comprehensive Protection: Features overcharge, over-discharge, over-voltage, short-circuit, and temperature protection, along with XTAR's original soft-start function for safer charging.

5. Setup

1. Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
2. Connect Power: Connect the provided 12V 3A power adapter to the charger's DC input port and then plug it into a wall outlet. The LCD screen will light up.
3. Optional Car Adapter: For in-car use, connect the 3A car adapter to the charger's DC input port and then to your vehicle's 12V power socket.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. LCD Display Overview

The high-quality LCD screen provides detailed information about the charging process and battery status.

Image 6.1: Detailed view of the LCD screen displaying various battery and charging parameters.

• Charging Current
• Battery & Battery Pack Status
• Battery Capacity Percentage
• Battery Types and Channels
• Battery Voltage
• Battery Resistance
• CHARGE/TEST/REFRESH Status
• 3S Pack/USB Output Status
• Phonic Reminder

6.2. Inserting Batteries

Insert batteries into the charging slots (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4) according to their polarity (+/-). The charger will automatically detect the battery type and initiate charging.

6.3. Selecting Charging Current

The charger offers selectable charging currents to suit different battery capacities and extend battery lifespan.

Image 6.2: Pressing the "CURRENT" button to cycle through charging current options.

• Press the "CURRENT" button to switch the charging current.
• CH1 & CH4: 0.5A / 1.0A / 2.0A
• CH2 & CH3: 0.5A / 1.0A

6.4. Battery Voltage & Resistance Test

Use the included test probes to measure battery voltage and internal resistance, providing a precise assessment of battery health.

Image 6.3: The charger precisely measures battery voltage and internal resistance using the test probes, functioning like a multimeter.

1. Connect the test probes to the designated ports on the charger.
2. Touch the probes to the positive and negative terminals of the battery.
3. The LCD will display the voltage and internal resistance.

6.5. Actual Capacity Test

The charger can perform a high-accuracy test to determine the actual capacity of your batteries, helping you identify if the stated capacity is accurate.

Image 6.4: The charger performing an actual capacity test, similar to a battery grading machine, to verify battery capacity.

1. Insert the battery into a slot.
2. Select the "TEST" mode (refer to the charger's buttons for mode selection).
3. The charger will discharge and then recharge the battery, displaying the actual measured capacity.

6.6. REFRESH Mode (Eliminate Memory Effect)

This mode is particularly useful for Ni-MH batteries to eliminate the memory effect and maximize their capacity. It can also quickly test the capacity of Li-ion batteries.

Image 6.5: The charger in REFRESH mode, showing a Ni-MH battery being processed to eliminate memory effect.

1. Insert the battery into a slot.
2. Select the "REFRESH" mode.
3. The charger will discharge the battery completely and then recharge it, restoring its full capacity.

6.7. 0V Activation (Battery Repair)

The XTAR Dragon VP4L Plus can bring over-discharged 3.6V/3.7V Li-ion and 1.2V Ni-MH batteries back to life.

Image 6.6: The 0V Activation feature reviving an over-discharged battery, indicated by the charging process resuming.

Simply insert the over-discharged battery into a slot. The charger will attempt to activate it. If successful, the charging process will begin normally.

6.8. USB Output Function

The charger features a USB output port (Max 2.4A) to charge external devices. It supports power-path management, allowing simultaneous charging of USB devices and batteries when connected to the wall adapter.

Image 6.7: The charger providing USB output to charge a smartphone while also charging batteries.

• Connect your USB device to the USB output port.
• If the charger is connected to the wall adapter, it can charge both batteries and USB devices simultaneously.
• You can also disconnect the wall adapter and insert charged Li-ion batteries into the slots to use the VP4L Plus as a power bank for your USB devices.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the charger. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the charger in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect the power adapter and cables for any signs of damage. Do not use if damaged.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official XTAR website or contact your retailer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Manufacturer: ShenZhen XTAR Electronics Co., Ltd