SkyRC Technology Co., Ltd. PC3000H-12/14S

The SkyRC PC3000H-12/14S is a mains charger with four ports for 12S and 14S batteries from the PC series of SkyRC, a manufacturer from Shenzhen. The series is meant for agricultural and industrial drones, the PC3000H for heavy multicopters. It charges up to four packs at the same time and communicates with CAN smart batteries.

The power depends on the mains: 3,000 W applies on 220 V mains, and on 120 V mains it is 1,200 W. Four channels charge four batteries independently of one another, with the total power shared between them. Fast charging at 60 A runs on one channel; 60 A at about 50 V of a 12S pack gives the full 3,000 W by calculation, so the maximum power goes to one battery. The unit charges 12S and 14S, supports LiPo, LiHV and smart batteries with CAN, and has an input for AC 220 V or 120 V. There is also a discharge function of 60 W. It weighs 6,000 g and measures 294 × 139 × 282 mm.

Fully charged, a 12S LiPo pack has 50.4 V, a 12S LiHV pack 52.2 V and a 14S LiPo pack 58.8 V. Anyone charging LiHV chooses the mode deliberately, because a LiPo pack charged to 4.35 instead of 4.2 V per cell is overcharged. Smart batteries store cell state and charge cycles and talk to the charger, which must understand their protocol. Charge lithium batteries only according to the manufacturer's instructions, under supervision and on a non-flammable surface, ideally in a charging bag; do not charge damaged or swollen packs.

When choosing, what counts is which mains is available: at 120 V less than half of the power remains. Per kilowatt hour of pack energy the unit needs 20 minutes by calculation at full power. The discharge function brings packs to storage voltage before storage. Wear concerns the fan, dust in the housing and the connectors of the smart batteries; keep the ventilation openings clear.