ISDT (Isdt Inc.) P30

The ISDT P30 is a two-channel charger for small FPV drones that works from DC only and packs a lot of power into a small housing. ISDT is a Chinese maker of compact smart chargers of the K, P and Q series and of chargers for DJI batteries. The unit is aimed at users who want to charge large packs quickly.

Each channel delivers up to 1,000 W at 30 A. Both channels together would reach 2,000 W, but the total power is limited to 1,500 W, so the power is shared at full load. In parallel charging, 30 to 50 A is possible according to the manufacturer's page. The unit charges 1S to 8S, for LiHV 1S to 7S, and supports LiFe, LiIon, LiPo, LiHV, lead-acid and NiMH and NiCd. The input is DC 10 to 34 V at up to 60 A. The unit weighs 730 g and measures 110 × 110 × 65 mm.

Without a mains input the P30 needs a strong DC source. 60 A at around 25 V corresponds to 1,500 W; the power supply, vehicle supply or generator with a DC output must deliver this input current, and the supply lead must carry it. Lithium batteries are charged only according to the manufacturer's instructions, under supervision and on a non-flammable surface, ideally in a charging bag. The charge current must never exceed the value permitted in the battery data sheet, even if the unit could do more.

When choosing, what travels with the equipment counts: the unit itself weighs little, but the matching power source is the heavy part. 100 Wh of pack energy charges in 6 minutes by calculation at 1,000 W; in practice the battery's permitted charge current sets the time. With LiHV packs the mode is chosen deliberately, because the end-of-charge voltage is 4.35 instead of 4.2 V per cell. Keep the ventilation openings clear.