Automatic chargers for car batteries. Car battery chargers, test

How to choose it and what you need to know?

When choosing a charger, first of all, you need to know the type of battery installed in the car, because some of them require personal attention and approach.

For example, this applies to lead-acid batteries - they require the use of special chargers.

For most batteries, almost any universal device is suitable.

Although modern devices allow you to simultaneously charge almost any battery, using several values \u200b\u200bof output power and charging current.

Features of the choice of charging for the battery

Having decided on the type of battery that requires charging, the choice of the best model continues according to other characteristics.

It is advisable to give preference to compact portable models, which are more convenient and easier to handle.

And, when choosing between equipment powered by a cigarette lighter and a single-phase network, you should pay attention to the second option - charging devicethat require standard 220V.

And, as a rule, they provide at first half the capacity of the battery, gradually reducing the power until the final charge.

To protect batteries from overcharging, each device is equipped with a special protection that automatically turns it off when the battery is 100% charged.

Among other parameters that need to be taken into account when choosing a charging, it should be noted:

• the capacity of the batteries to be charged. For passenger cars it is equal, on average, from 40 to 62 Ah, for motorcycles - up to 20 Ah, for minibuses - up to 120–160 Ah;
• charging current. 6 A is suitable for batteries with a capacity of up to 60–70 Ah. 12 and 18 A - the best option for minibuses and SUVs;
• price category. The cost of most models is at the level of 2000-3 thousand rubles. More functional equipment will cost 5 thousand or more.

The brand of the charger also matters. Chargers made in Germany are considered the most reliable and efficient devices. While the Korean models are notable for an affordable price with fairly good characteristics.

Read also:

Popular charger models

Almost any modern charger can handle the recovery of the battery in cars and small commercial vehicles within 6-10 hours.

The same devices allow you to restore the performance of a completely discharged battery. In this case, the recovery time of the battery capacity with zero charge is calculated taking into account 10-15% of the reserve.

For example, a device with a current of 6 A will charge a 60 Ah battery not in 10, but in 11-12 hours.

If the battery is charged by one third (from this moment it is recommended to start charging) - accordingly, in 7-8 hours.

If you want to reduce this time, you should buy a more powerful device. At the same time, the choice of a device with automatic floating adjustment of parameters will increase the battery life. Setting the charging current to a lower value will increase the charging time but also improve recovery. If the charger does not have an automatic adjustment function, the user will have to monitor the battery himself.

Bosch C3 - a simple model for passenger cars

The Bosch C3 car charger, produced by a well-known German concern, is the best option for most batteries - from lead acid to gel.

It has 4 fully automatic charging modes, which make it possible to recover batteries of different capacities (up to 140 Ah) at positive and negative temperatures.

AND high power guarantee correct and fast charging.

And security systems are able to warn the user about improper battery connection, preventing a short circuit.

Equipment characteristics:

• working voltage: 220V (50 Hz);
• output voltage: 6V (for charging batteries with a capacity of up to 14 Ah) and 12V (up to 120 Ah);
• charging current strength: 0.8 A and 3.8 A;
• type of rechargeable batteries: gel (WET, AGM, GEL, VRLA) and lead-acid;
• model cost: from 2300 rubles.

Figure: 1. Bosch C3 - compact and inexpensive, but not very powerful device.

Bosch C7 - maximum functionality

By using the Bosch C7 charger, capacity can be restored car batteries of various types - from gel to acid-lead.

In this case, not 4 modes are used, as in the less functional C7 model, but six:

1. For charging one conventional battery with a starting current of 7A;
2. To increase the capacity of gel-type batteries or any rechargeable batteries in winter (current 7 A);
3. Recovery of the battery after full discharge (current 1.5 A);
4. Maintaining battery power during its replacement;
5. Battery charging of light trucks;
6. Increasing the capacity of truck batteries in freezing temperatures.

Technical specifications:

• voltage: operating - 220V, output - 12V and 24V;
• current strength: 3.5A and 7A;
• battery charging: up to 230 Ah;
• battery compatibility: gel and lead;
• cost: from 6500 rubles.

Figure: 2. Bosch C7 is a universal device for any battery.

Tesla ZU-40080 - an inexpensive device for trucks batteries

Charging the Tesla ZU-40080 has a relatively large dimensions and provides the recovery of lead-acid batteries of various equipment - from ordinary vehicles to boats, motorcycles and even lawn mowers.

The capacity of the rechargeable battery can be in the range of 20-180 Ah, and the charging current reaches 8 A, which allows the device to work with batteries, minibuses and trucks.

For ease of use, the device is equipped with protection systems against incorrect connection, overheating and short circuits, charging wires 1.4 and 1.7 meters long.

For installation on a wall, the device has special mounts on a shockproof and waterproof case.

And the main advantages of the equipment include its lowest price among similar devices.

Main parameters:

• voltage value: input - 220-240V (50 Hz), output - 6 / 12V;
• charging current: 5.6 A (nominal) and 8 A (maximum);
• maximum capacity of rechargeable batteries: 180 Ah;
• battery type: lead-acid;
• device price: from 1500 rubles.

Figure: 3. Tesla brand device - versatile, powerful and affordable.

Deca SM 1270 - compact and versatile

A small device from the Italian brand Deca will provide battery recovery for a conventional car within just 8-10 hours, depending on the capacity.

And the ability to charge the battery up to 225 Ah allows you to use the device also for working with trucks.

The functionality, expressed in the presence of three operating modes, and the safety of charging are combined with versatility (the ability to charge any type of battery).

And the only drawback can be called only the high price, although it is fully consistent with the possibilities.

Model characteristics:

• operating voltage: 220-240V;
• parameters of the connected equipment: 12V, 15-225 Ah;
• charging current: 7 A;
• accumulators: AGM, lead and gel;
• cost: from 4500 rubles.

Figure: 4. Model SM 1270 - low price and size combined with high functionality.

Lavita LA 192309 - compact set for charging ordinary cars

Another charger, LAVITA LA 192309, has a low price and is a set of equipment for the recovery of any lead-acid battery.

The disadvantages of the device include the need to manually switch the charge power, a weak charging current and the inability to work with a battery with a capacity of more than 80 Ah.

On the plus side is a shockproof, fireproof and at the same time lightweight plastic case, low price and full protection against all unforeseen situations - from incorrect connections, short circuits, overheating and overcharging.

Device parameters:

• voltage: 220V;
• output voltage of the device: 6V and 12V;
• charge strength: 3.52 A;
• battery characteristics: 12–80 Ah, lead acid;
• price: from 1500 rubles.

Figure: 5. The LAVITA LA 192309 device, convenient for use and transfer.

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Pulso BC-40100 - device for battery charging in frost

The battery charger is the best option for use in low temperatures.

The charger, made of high-quality metal and plastic, has an affordable cost, relatively small size, protection against overheating, overcharging and incorrect battery connection.

The high charging current of 10 A and compatibility with batteries with a capacity of 20-200 Ah make it possible to charge the batteries of cars, trucks, lawn mowers, SUVs and motorcycles.

Pulso BC-40100 specifications:

• network voltage: 220V;
• output voltage: 6 and 12V;
• charging current: 10 A;
• parameters of rechargeable batteries: lead-acid, capacity 20-200 Ah;
• the cost of the charger: from 2300 rubles.

Figure: 6. Pulso BC-40100 is a good option for charging any battery at any temperature.

AIDA 8 super - lightweight universal device

Automatic charger Aida 8 Super is suitable for restoring the capacity and performance of batteries of any type installed on trucks and cars, motorcycles and buses.

The device charges batteries in 3 modes (including storage of the battery during the inter-operation period) and works even with equipment discharged to zero.

This provides complete protection against overcharging and overheating. The model weighs no more than 600 grams and fits in a small carrying bag.

Hades parameters - 8:

• mains voltage: 150-240V (50 Hz);
• charge current: 4 and 8 A;
• supply voltage: up to 13V;
• rechargeable batteries: 40-160 A / h, AGM, lead, gel;
• prices: from 2 thousand rubles.

Figure: 7. Aida 8 Super - a combination of small size and serious capabilities.

AIDA 10s - charging and storage of powerful batteries

Using the charger model AIDAM-10S, you can restore the batteries of any vehicle, regardless of their charge level and ambient temperature.

To start the batteries, a special pre-start mode with a current of 10 Amperes is used.

The device is also used to store batteries when they are not in use, which allows them to be stored for a certain period.

The advantages of the model are the low price and small size, protection against incorrect connection and the ability to be used as a power supply.

Charger parameters:

• allowed mains voltage: 150-240V;
• charging currents: 1, 5 and 10 A;
• output voltage: 12V;
• battery type: gel, lead, AGM, 4-180 Ah;
• cost: from 2300 rubles.

Figure: 8. Aida 10C - the best option for storing batteries in cars and trucks.

AIDA 11 - average price and decent parameters

Charging Aida 11 works in manual and automatic mode, and also allows desulfation - restoration of battery performance.

The model can be used to charge batteries with a capacity of up to 180 Ah, that is, devices installed on both conventional cars and SUVs, buses and trucks.

The equipment has 4 degrees of protection, medium cost and small dimensions.

And among its advantages is the high value of the charging current, thanks to which even a completely discharged 60 Ah car battery can be charged in just 7 hours.

Main parameters:

• permissible voltage: output - from 160V to 240V, output - 12V;
• network frequency: 50-60 Hz;
• charging current - from 0 to 10 A;
• type of rechargeable batteries: lead, gel and AGM;
• device cost: from 2500 rubles.

Figure: 9. Domestic model with good parameters.

Easy and convenient charging AUTO WELLE AW05-1208

Charging the AUTO WELLE brand, like all other models in the review, has full protection against any errors and malfunctions.

And an additional advantage is also water protection level IP 65.

Automation of the device operation is provided by the built-in processor, and its versatility is provided by the presence of several operating modes and the ability to charge any type of battery with a capacity of up to 160 Ah.

Charging Features:

• charging current strength: 2 and 8 A;
• rechargeable batteries: lead-acid, AGM and gel, 4-160 A / h;
• voltage: 220V, output - 6V and 12V;
• price: from 2 thousand rubles.

Figure: 10. Model AW05-1208 - user-friendly interface and small size.

The article describes charger for car batteries, allowing you to set the charging current up to 10 A and automatically turn off the battery charging when the set voltage is reached. The article contains schematic diagrams, drawingsassembly of parts,printed circuit board, device design andgiven me the time of its adjustment.

Most chargers only allow the required charging current to be set. In simple devices, this current is maintained in manual mode, and in some devices it is automatically maintained by current stabilizers. When using such devices, it is necessary to monitor the process of charging the battery to the maximum permissible voltage, which requires appropriate time and attention. The fact is that overcharging the battery leads to the boiling of the electrolyte, which shortens its service life. The proposed charger allows you to set the charge current and automatically turn it off when the set voltage value is reached

The charger is built on the basis of an industrial rectifier of the BCA-6K type (any rectifier of suitable power can be used), which converts an alternating voltage of 220 V into fixed constant voltages of 12 V and24 B, which are switched by a packet switch. The rectifier is designed for a load current of up to 24 A and does not contain a smoothing filter. To charge the storage batteries, the rectifier is supplemented with an electronic control circuit that allows you to set the required charging current and the value of the rated voltage for disconnecting the charger from the storage battery when full charge is reached.

The charger is mainly intended for car battery charging voltage of 12 V and charging current up to 10 A, and can also be used for other purposes. To charge these batteries, a rectified voltage of 24 V is used, and for batteries with a voltage of 6 V, a voltage of 12 V. The smoothing filter cannot be connected to the output of the rectifier, since the thyristor can only close when the voltage reaches zero, and open at the right time by the control circuit.

Fig. 1 Diagram of the power section of the charger

Schematic connection diagram rectifier VSA-6K to the board electronic circuit control and to external elements is shown in Fig. 1. The terminals of the charger for connecting the battery are connected to the standard terminals of the front panel of the rectifier XZ and X4. To use fixed constant voltages of 12 V or 24 V when using the device for other purposes, the standard rectifier leads are connected to the screw terminals XI and X2 located on the insulating strip next to the FU2 fuse, which are covered with a removable cover on the right side wall of the device.

The rectifier voltmeter is connected to the battery connection terminals. The ammeter remains connected to the common "+" circuit and measures both the battery charging current and the load current connected to terminals X1 and X2. The control circuit is only energized when the battery is connected.

Commercially available storage batteries are usually charged and filled with electrolyte or dry-charged without electrolyte. They only require pre-charging to their rated capacity. Used car batteries also need to be recharged after maintenance or long periods of inactivity. If there is a need to form and charge the battery from "zero", then initially it must be recharged from a source with a fixed voltage of 12 V through a rheostat, which is set to the required charging current. After reaching the voltage on the battery of about 10 V, further operations can be performed by connecting it to the terminals XZ, X4.

For the following description of the operation of the charger, it should be briefly recalled that acid batteries used in passenger cars contain six cans. When the voltage on the bank reaches 2.4 V, gas evolution of an explosive oxygen-hydrogen mixture begins, which indicates that the battery is fully charged. Gassing destroys the active mass contained in the lead battery plates, therefore, to ensure the maximum battery life, the voltage on each of its cells on average should not exceed 2.3 V, taking into account also the fact that the internal resistances of the cells and the voltages on them may differ slightly from each other. friend. This ultimately corresponds to a maximum battery voltage of 13.8 V, at which the charger should automatically shut down.

Device operation

The control circuit diagram is shown in Fig. 2,assembly of parts is shown in figure 3, and the printed circuit board is shown in figure 4. The control circuit consists of a constant voltage amplifier on transistors VT1, VT2, VT3 and a circuit with an analogue of a single-junction transistor on VT4 and VT5, which controls the thyristor VS1 to set the required charging current. The use of an analog instead of a conventional single-junction transistor (for example, KT117A-G) is beneficial in that the choice of transistors and resistors R9 - R1 1 can be used to select the required characteristics.

When the voltage on the battery is less than 13.8 V, the transistor VT3 is closed, and VT2 and VT1 are open. At pin 6 of the control board, positive half-waves of voltage are received from the diode bridge of the rectifier, which are superimposed on the constant voltage of the battery and through the open VT1, VD1, R8 are fed to thyristor regulator current.

Fig. 2 Control diagram

It works as follows: the voltage from R8 is fed to the VT4 base and through the regulator for setting the charging current R12 to the capacitor C1.

At the initial moment, VT4 and VT5 are closed. When C1 is charged up to the trigger voltage of the analog of a unijunction transistor, a pulse is applied from the emitter VT5 to the control electrode of the thyristor, which opens and closes the battery charging circuit. In this case, C1 is quickly discharged through the low resistance of an open analogue of a unijunction transistor. When the next pulse arrives, the process is repeated. The lower the resistance value R12 (Fig. 1), the faster C1 is charged and VS1 opens, as a result of which it is in the open state for a longer time, and the greater the charging current. VD1 glowing indicates battery charging.

When the battery voltage reaches 13.8IN, which corresponds to its full charge, the transistor VT3 opens, and VT2 and VT1 are closed, the voltage on the thyristor control circuit disappears, the battery charge stops and the VD1 LED goes out.

Setting up the device

The charger is set up with its front panel open and consists in setting the charging current cut-off voltage. To do this, you need to connect a voltmeter of an accuracy class of at least 1.5 to the battery, make sure that there is a voltage of at least 10.8 V on it (the discharge of an acid battery with a voltage of 12 V to a voltage below 10.8 V is not allowed), set the charging current (value 0.1 battery capacity), and set the trimmer R5 to the middle position and start charging. If the charger turns off when the voltage on the battery is less than 13.8 V, then the slider of the resistor R5 must be turned counterclockwise by a certain angle before the LED is lit and charging continues to 13.8 V, and if the device has not turned off at this voltage, turn the slider along clockwise until the device is turned off. In this case, the LED should go out. This completes the setup of the circuit and the front panel is installed in its place. For the further operation of the charger, it is necessary to note which position of the arrow of the standard voltmeter corresponds to a voltage of 13.8 V, so as not to use an additional voltmeter.

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Fig. 5

Structurally, the control board, thyristor with a cooler, LED VD1 and variable resistor R12 of the charging current setting are fixed on the inner side of the front panel (Fig. 5) The thyristor radiator is fixed on the panel using two textolite strips. It is attached to one with two M3 countersunk screws, and the other serves as an insulating gasket. The control board is fixed with an additional nut on the output of the ammeter, which should not touch its printed tracks.

In conclusion, it should be noted that this device can provide a charging current of up to 24 A when installing a more powerful thyristor and a FU2 fuse for 25 A.

Anatoly Zhurenkov

Literature

1. S. Elkin Application of trinistor regulators with phase-pulse control // Radioammator. - 1998.-№9.-С.37-38.

2. V. Voevoda Simple trinistor charger // Radio. - 2001. - No. 11. - P.35.

A charger (charger) is a device for charging an electric battery from an external source of energy, usually from an alternating current network. Monitoring the condition of a car battery includes periodic checks and timely maintenance in working order. For cars, this is more often done in the winter season, since in the summer the car storage battery (ACB) has time to recharge from the generator. In the cold season, starting the engine is more difficult and the load on the battery increases. The situation is aggravated when there are long intervals between engine starts.

Modern battery charger

Various circuits and devices exist in large numbers, but in general, batteries are organized on the basis of the following elements:

• voltage converter (transformer or pulse unit);
• rectifier;
• automatic charge control;
• indication.

The simplest charger

The simplest is a device based on a transformer and a rectifier, shown in the diagram below. It's easy to do it yourself.

Scheme of the simplest charger for a car

The main part of the device is the TC-160 transformer used in old TVs (picture below). By connecting its two secondary windings at 6.55 V each in series, you can get 13.1 V at the output.The maximum current they have is 7.5 A, which is quite suitable for charging the battery.

The appearance of a do-it-yourself charger

The optimal voltage value of a classic charger is 14.4 V. If you take 12 V, which the battery must have, it will not be possible to fully charge, since the required current cannot be created. Excessive charging voltage leads to battery failure.

D242A diodes, which correspond in power, can be used as rectifiers.

The circuit does not provide automatic regulation of the charging current. Therefore, you will have to consistently install an ammeter for visual control.

In order not to burn out the transformer, fuses are installed at the input and output, respectively for 0.5 A and 10 A. Diodes are mounted on radiators, since in the initial charging period the current will be large due to low internal resistance the battery, causing them to become very hot.

When the charging current drops to 1A, it means the battery is fully charged.

Device features

Outdated hand-operated gadgets have been replaced by modern models. Device circuits provide automatic maintenance of the charging current with the selection of its required value as the state of the battery changes.

Modern devices have a declared charging current of 6 to 9 A for batteries with a capacity of 50-90 Ah, used for passenger cars.

Any battery is charged with a current equal to 10% of its capacity. If it is 60 Ah, the current should be 6 A, for 90 Ah - 9 A.

Choice

1. The ability to recover a completely discharged battery. Not all memory devices have this function.
2. Maximum charging current. It should be 10% of the battery capacity. The device should have a shutdown function after full charge, as well as a support mode. When charging a fully discharged battery, a short circuit may occur. The device circuit must be protected.

The versatility and versatility of new devices with reasonable prices makes it inexpedient to make chargers with your own hands. In fact, they are multipurpose power supplies with different operating modes.

Charger - power supply

Manufacturers

Models are selected mainly with a power supply from a 220 V network. To choose, you need to know their features. General characteristics modern chargers for car batteries are as follows:

• pulse type;
• the presence of forced ventilation;
• small size and weight;
• automatic charging mode.

"Berkut" Smart Power SP-25N

The model is professional and is designed for charging 12 V lead acid batteries. The automatic operating principle includes the following operating modes:

• charging any car batteries under normal conditions;
• charging in the "Winter" mode - at an ambient temperature of 5 0 С and below;
• “Desulfation” - recovery with increasing voltage to the maximum;
• “Power supply” - used to supply voltage at a load of up to 300 W (not battery).

Charger "Berkut" Smart Power SP-25N

Charging is done in 9 stages. It is difficult to make such a device with your own hands. First, the battery is tested for its ability to charge. After that, restoration is performed with a small current with a gradual increase to the maximum. The last step is to create a savings mode.

The model may have different protection classes, for example, IP20 (normal conditions) and IP44 (against splashes and particles of 1 mm or larger).

The battery can be charged without removing it from the car: through the cigarette lighter or crocodile contacts.

When charging, the “+” terminal of the battery must be disconnected from the vehicle circuit.

"Orion" ("Pennant")

The pulse power conversion device makes automatic charging... The circuit provides smooth manual current control using a rotary knob. Control indicators can be arrow and linear. The battery discharge rate can be 0-12 V.

Charger "Orion"

Orion is a power source for other loads, such as instruments operating from 12-15 V.

The main advantage of the device is its price, which is several times less than that of analogues. With an increase in power and the number of additional functions, the cost can increase significantly.

Device overview. Video

There are many about automatic battery charger useful information can be found in the video below.

On the market there is a large selection of impulse chargers for lead-acid batteries for cars. The main feature is a simple interface and many functions. Simple chargers can be easily found and assembled with your own hands, but it is better to have a reliable device at hand that guarantees long-term operation of the car battery.

If such devices appeared on the scene about forty years ago, they would have been booed. Because everyone knew: a real charger is a heavy box with a huge transformer inside, all kinds of twists, a voltmeter and an ammeter outside. Everything else is not serious.

A modern charger is usually a pretty pretty automatic box with a minimum of controls. Or even without them. At the same time, many for some reason are very similar to each other. But are they the same in work?

We tested eight devices taken for the test at two temperatures: -10 and +20 ºС. We must say right away that you should not believe the statements of individual manufacturers about performance in more severe frosts. Firstly, the intensity of the charging process in the cold drops very strongly: at -25 ºС the charging current of the 55th battery will be only 4–6% of the indicator at plus twenty-five. And attempts to raise the charge voltage are fraught with destruction of the active mass and corrosion of down conductors. Secondly, at lower temperatures, the insulation of the power wires of the presented devices hardens and breaks. Thirdly ... However, two reasons are quite enough.

We have summarized kilograms, millimeters and volts with amperes in a table, and supplemented the photo gallery with comments for each copy. In general, we can say that the devices honestly give out the declared charging programs. The reason for the nit-picking was the fuses instead of the electronic protection, the lack of intelligible inscriptions on the case and the overpriced price against the background of the “colleagues” with approximately equal talents.

8th place

Sweden

Estimated price, rub. 4950 Looks very nice. Everything is intuitively clear, except for the term RECOND: you can't figure it out without instructions. However, you can do without this mode to restore discharged batteries. There are no complaints about automation and circuitry. In general, everything is fine, except for the price. Well, no gate!

7th place

Denmark

Estimated price, rub. 4200 We will immediately blame the absence of inscriptions in Russian. But there is a LED for lighting the space. The whole process is automatic and does not require intervention. Charging through the cigarette lighter socket is provided. By the way, the product, if desired, can be hung on the wall. Not bad overall, but the price ruined everything.

6th place

Taiwan

The Russian language was offended again: all the inscriptions on the device are non-Nashen. However, there is nothing to read: plugged in and forgot. There is protection against polarity reversal, arcing, overcharging and short circuit. But for the shameful unit of measurement of capacity "A / h" in the instructions, its authors should be ashamed. That's right: Ah!

5th place

, PRC

Estimated price, rub. 3000 There is a heavy transformer inside. Just do not believe the inscription on the box: the device is not a starter charger at all. Look at the thin wires with "crocodiles" - well, what a start with them! It is not for nothing that it is sold on the Internet as an ordinary charger. It works fine, but the fuse is not good. And it looks like someone has adapted a suitable case for a different filling.

4th place

, Russia

Estimated price, rub. 1070 The product is the simplest outwardly and technically uncomplicated. A fuse as protection against incorrect connection is not the most user-friendly solution. Recharge mode during storage is not provided. But, proceeding from the principle “it couldn't be simpler”, many will be attracted by the complete absence of bells and whistles. The price, which is several times lower than the rest, is also an important factor.

3rd place

, PRC

Estimated price, rub. 3220 Perhaps the most presentable view. At least put it under the tree! The pictograms are clear and do not require translation. Works with 6- and 12-volt batteries. The "crocodiles" look funny without wires: the consumer must screw them on himself. There is a “hanger” on the wall for ease of use. But the fuse as "foolproof protection" is outdated and inconvenient.

2nd place

Universal charger device "Sorokin" 12.94, "Made for Russia"

Estimated price, rub. 2000 This cute, fool-proof device can work with both 12- and 6-volt batteries. The charge is carried out cyclically, in several stages, while the "desulfation" mode is provided for almost dead batteries. Includes various connecting wires, including for plugging into the cigarette lighter socket. In general, not bad.

1 place

Berkut Smart Power SP-8N, China

Estimated price, rub. 2650 The Chinese "Berkut" is quite familiar in Russia: even the inscriptions are made in Cyrillic. It's simple: turn it on and use it. There is protection, the current is solid, the automation works, the modes to choose from, the price is average, the look is modern. No comments, everything is fine.

The car battery sometimes needs to be recharged to keep it working. This is important in case of sudden temperature changes, increased consumption in the on-board network (powerful audio systems, heated seats, etc.) or when using a car for short trips when the battery does not have time to restore its volume from the standard generator.

Our review presents the best chargers available on the domestic market. The distribution of models in the ranking is based on the characteristics of the devices, user feedback and the estimated opinions of experts in the field of automotive electronics.

Best automatic chargers

The peculiarity of this category of devices lies in the automatic regulation of the current, the value of which changes in accordance with the battery charge level. This method prevents electrolyte "boiling" and ensures a long battery life.

3 ORION PW150

Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 1225 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The simplest and at the same time practical charging unit, working in automatic mode with lead-acid batteries. This is a model that strikingly differs from its competitors in terms of rating: the ascetic front panel contains only two indicators - no switches, no knobs and a display that notifies about the value of the charging current. There is a battery charge control lamp and, in essence, a diode for the activity of the ongoing process.

As for charging, the ORION PW150 is not able to draw out a battery discharged to zero on itself, but can only help someone who is at actual "death" to survive. This is where his talents end, but simplicity still gains a bit of popularity among users. The owners of the ORION PW150 charger, leaving reviews, mainly evaluate this device on the positive side. Its use is extremely simple, you do not need to control anything - the battery can be connected to it, even for a whole week, and you should not be afraid of overcharging and damage to the battery. With its help, many motorists managed to extend the operating life of the battery for another season. True, for this you always had to put the battery on recharge at sub-zero temperatures.

2 Auto electrician Т-1001АР

Prevents battery sulfation
Country Russia
Average price: 3300 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The charger supports a maximum current of 9 A and can restore a battery capacity of up to 110 A * h for cars (12 V) or motorcycles (6 V). Reverse current keeps the plates from premature failure and promotes more efficient restoration of working capacity.

The owners, leaving reviews, reasonably consider the T-1001AR the best charger. The device can work with gel batteries and batteries with AGM technology. Regular use prevents sulfation of the battery plates (the most common cause of battery failure) and reduces the self-discharge current. In addition to displaying the battery status on the display, the device can also check the functionality of the generator and relay-regulator.

1 QUATTRO ELEMENTI i-Charge 10

Good technical equipment
Country: Italy
Average price: 3990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Not too compact, expensive device for automatic recharging of high-end car batteries. Easily copes with the gradual "filling" of batteries with a capacity of 100 Ah. The beginning of the charging process takes place at a nominal current of 6.5 A. Gradually, by processing the data received from the terminals on the state of the battery, the device itself chooses the optimal mode for these conditions, either increasing or decreasing the ammeter readings.

Another important factor is the presence of a malfunction notification system, due to which it becomes much easier to control the work process. The owners, leaving their reviews, indicate in them that with the help of QUATTRO ELEMENTI i-Charge 10 they were able to extend the life of the standard battery and save themselves from problems with starting the engine in cold weather. The only thing that this device lacks (judging by the owners' opinion) is a forced charging system that allows you to "raise dead" batteries.

Best manual chargers

Punching chargers for reanimation of "tightly" dead batteries. They are characterized by instantaneous and stable transmission of current of a certain strength to the terminals, which is perceived by the battery in small volumes. Gradually the battery "comes to life" and begins to take current in full portions.

The main disadvantage of such chargers is the need for constant monitoring - from excess energy, the electrolyte in the battery begins to boil, which often leads to an explosion of the battery itself and entails damage to property and health. They cost an order of magnitude cheaper than automatic counterparts, but for safety reasons (if there is no time to track the charging process), it is better to resort to buying an automatic device.

4 KOLNER KBCH 4

Best price
Country: Russia (made in China)
Average price: 880 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

A fairly simple, and, nevertheless, reliable starting-charger will help, if necessary, to quickly start the car engine - the main thing is that there is a 220 V network or an alternator nearby. Actually, this specimen does not demonstrate anything new - it meets the standard requirements for recharging 12-volt batteries, and does so in good faith. Unlike many much more serious models, an additional circuit protection unit is sewn into the KOLNER KBCH 4, so the wrong connection of the terminals will not be fatal for the battery.

Charge indication is carried out by means of distinguishable LEDs, both at night and during the day. The only serious inconvenience of the device is the need for periodic monitoring - from excessive current saturation, the electrolyte can simply boil. Nevertheless, the user reviews positively evaluate the convenient case and the device's capabilities. In addition, the "start-up" KOLNER has one of the most affordable prices on the market, which attracts its new owners.

3 Sonar UZP-210

Optimal combination of performance
Country Russia
Average price: 4050 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

A modern system with a pulse voltage converter, clothed in an echo casing of the 90s. The model is so practical that the first advantage can be called simple and intuitive manual control. The rest of the manipulations are simply superfluous: Sonar UZP-210 does everything by itself, in automatic mode. This is a good example of combining two conceptually different control methods that gives excellent results. There are two charging modes - with a maximum of 12 A or 6 A for different types of batteries. Charging proceeds according to the classic scenario of the automatic method: fast charging, equalization of the current supply to the standard value, as the battery is saturated, the transition to the buffer mode and the voltage stabilization at the saturation level.

Advantages:

• impressive short-term starting current (200 A for one to two seconds);
• compactness;
• automatic charging with manually adjustable parameters.

Disadvantages:

• not detected.

2 ZPU 135

Best transformer charger
Country Russia
Average price: 4200 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The most powerful starting and charging transformer device with a manual control type, the potential of which can be enough to "breathe life" into an empty capacious battery. The maximum charge current reaches an impressive figure of 13 A, and the starting current, and even more so, is a one-time emission of 140 A (for 10-15 seconds, for a simple estimate, it can instantly "boil" the electrolyte even in a battery with a capacity of 140 Ah (and 12 Only a small number of consumers prefer to resort to home use of such a device - it has become much more widespread in the circles of auto repair shops, services and transport workshops of private and state enterprises. The only drawback of the system is the lack of protection against closures - when fixing the terminals, you should be especially careful.

Advantages:

• high rated power of the starting mode and normal charging;
• elementary management;
• attractive cost.

Disadvantages:

• the probability of a short circuit of the terminals and failure of the device.

1 FUBAG COLD START 300/12

The most efficient device
Country: Germany
Average price: 6050 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

FUBAG COLD START 300/12 became the leader among the starter-chargers included in our rating. Despite the microprocessor-based automatic control of the device's operation, it ended up in this category due to the ability to quickly reanimate the car battery, and to ensure reliable engine start in harsh winter conditions and with an acute lack of time.

The owners' reviews emphasize the ability with the help of FUBAG COLD START to restore completely "dead" batteries after a deep discharge. As a result of using a charger, the prospect of the battery being recycled can be postponed for at least one more calendar season, and the purchase of a new power supply for the car is not required at all.

The best microprocessor-controlled chargers

Modern high-tech chargers, in addition to preventive recharging of batteries, allow you to recover deeply discharged batteries of various types of construction. By regulating the current and voltage according to a given algorithm, these devices increase the battery life, which confirms their high efficiency.

3 SMART-POWER SP-25N Professional

High quality of the device
Country: Philippines
Average price: 9990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

One of the representatives of a small cohort of chargers working not only with 12-volt, but also with 24-volt batteries. Despite its unsightly dimensions, it is a rather powerful device capable of charging electrolyte batteries in the realities of an industrial scale. If you follow the trend of purchases, it becomes clear that about 20% of consumers buy the device for personal use, while the rest are representatives of service centers, car repair and maintenance stations. However, the high build quality and the covered operating range significantly add SMART-POWER SP-25N Professional in price, due to which budget users are eliminated already at the stage of a quick selection.

Nevertheless, the successful owners are satisfied with the work of the charger. Particular attention in the reviews is paid to the moisture resistance of the case and the presence of an information display that clearly reflects the ongoing charging processes. The quality of the assembly and the reliability of the component parts are highly appreciated - the device can work almost without interruption, making short breaks only for connecting to another battery. Battery recovery modes after deep discharge fully justify the cost of this equipment.

2 RedHotDot VOLTA G-260

Long service life
Country: Germany (made in Italy)
Average price: 14,900 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The control panel of this charger is quite simple and clear, so it is almost impossible to make a mistake when choosing a mode of operation with a battery. The device is made of high quality parts and features excellent assembly, which ultimately determines its professional level of technical performance and durability.

Users with the RedHotDot VOLTA G-260 can service more than just ordinary car batteries. It can charge motorcycle (6 V), as well as parallel-connected pairs of batteries (24 V) used in some luxury cars and heavy vehicles. In the reviews, the model is characterized positively - the owners like the complete automation of the process, security systems that are triggered in emergency situations (network heating, short circuit) and the presence of an operating mode for restoring the battery after a deep discharge.

1 DAEWOO DW 800

The best ratio of price and quality
Country: South Korea
Average price: 4480 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

One of the best microprocessor-controlled chargers. Provides diagnostics of the state of the connected battery, independently selects the current strength and the value of the supplied voltage, depending on the selected mode (smooth, express, winter and auto).

Provides the most effective protection systems for short circuit, overheating of the wiring and polarity reversal. In the reviews, the owners positively evaluate the presence and information content of the LCD display, diagnostic mode and desulfation. In addition, the device can operate with five different types of batteries and, with regular use, to recharge a car battery, it can increase its resource. In some cases, it is known about more than two times the normal battery life.

How to choose a good charger

To select the ideal charger in terms of performance and durability, there are a number of important criteria to consider:

1. Appointment. Devices are divided into three types:

• launchers, whose task is a one-time resuscitation of the battery to obtain an immediate result;
• chargers designed for long-term, but full recharge of the battery;
• start-up chargers are a combination of the first two types of devices, serving as a universal device.

The choice directly depends on your personal preferences.

1. Charging method. There are only two methods in this category: auto, in which the voltage is adjusted by the device as the battery charge increases, and classic (manual)requiring periodic monitoring of the process by the user.
2. Supported voltage modes. A parameter defining the typology of rechargeable batteries. So, some devices are designed to charge simple 6-volt batteries on motor vehicles, while others power powerful 24-volt or more average 12-volt batteries.
3. Availability of additional functions. Some manufacturers tend to add distinctive features to their products, be it original LEDs, battery power modes (Boost, pulse charging, etc.) or equipping the device with a storage device that can remember the results of the charging sessions.