Gregor99 wrote:
The Powerlab6 is slightly different in that it has an input current limit of 40 amps. My measured results show the charger performing at 90% efficiency, which works out to be 860 watts to a 6s pack when used with a 24v source...
I'm currently testing the new Dual Powerlab8 (2688 watts) which is due out soon. It has an input current limit of 40 amps per channel (80 amps combined). However it's input voltage is significantly higher at 48v. During the beta I used two 48v server supplies running in parallel (using the load sharing function). Current draw is much less at about 23 amps per channel putting out 1008 watts to the packs.
It is interesting that the Dual Powerlab 8x2 ("The Dual") is also limited to 40A input; I'm sure they made this decision to keep the price reasonable (less than the iCharger 4010 Duo).
The really significant thing about The Dual & 4010 Duo is not the output current, it is the 48vdc input. Because of
Peukert's Law four 50Ah deep cell batteries (48vdc) will have much more capacity then a two 100Ah deep cell batteries (24vdc) system because the current draw will be ~1/2. Again being able to use cheaper deep cell batteries or getting much more usable capacity.
The only advantage the Powerlab 8 v2 60 amp input has is with 24vdc or less input sources where the input current can go >40A.
Also be careful with >30vdc, it can kill you. (The nurse made me say it).
What is the efficiency of The Dual while using a 48vdc source and charging a 6S battery?
At what voltage does The Dual give an input over voltage warning? Four fully charged deep cell batteries is 50-54vdc without a load.
Where I see The Dual or 4010 Duo really being significant is the club field that doesn't have AC. Either charger with two paralleling boards and four 100Ah deep cell batteries at 48vdc can support 4 fliers with a full day of flying. Then bring the deep cells home and wire them in parallel and charge them with a cheap car battery charger during the night. Because the decreased amp draw @ 48vdc the deep cells will last a long time.