1. Batteries
Although there are a wide variety of different batteries, in our applications, batteries typically provide direct current (DC) power from the battery to a motor or other electrical component or circuit.
 
The output voltage and output current is important when selecting a battery. If the device you wish to power using a battery requires 12 Volts of Direct Current (VDC) as an input then you must choose a battery that provides 12 VDC output. The output current rating of the battery is also important. If your device requires 12 VDC at 10 Amps you must choose a 12 VDC battery that can safely supply 10 Amps or more.
 
A battery must be capable of providing the correct voltage for your device and it must be capable of providing at least the current that the device requires. A device that requires 12 VDC at 2 Amps will work fine with a battery rated for 12 VDC at 10 Amps but will not work with a 12 VDC battery that is rated capable of providing 1 Amp of current.
 
Never overload a battery or under power a device. You run the risk of damaging the battery and the device.
 
1.1. Battery Types - Chemistry & Characteristics
1.2. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate
VMAX Lithium Ion Batteries use A123 Nanophosphate Cells.
 
Please consult the READ ME FIRST document supplied with your battery before using.  
 
 
1.2.1. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - READ ME FIRST
 
BEFORE PROCEEDING
TO CHARGE OR 
USE THIS BATTERY
 
PLEASE
READ ME FIRST
          
PLEASE
READ ME FIRST
 
BEFORE PROCEEDING
TO CHARGE OR 
USE THIS BATTERY
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LIABILITY DISCLAIMER & COPYRIGHT NOTICE

LIABILITY DISCLAIMER

The authors and/or suppliers and/or disseminaters of this information and/or product expressly disclaim any warranties or representations, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to implied warranties of fitness, accuracy, timeliness or applicability of the information and/or product provided here. In no event will the authors and/or suppliers and/or disseminaters of this information and/or product have any obligation arising from contract or tort, for loss of revenue or profit, or for indirect, special, incidental, consequential or other damages of any sort arising from this information and/or product. In using this information and/or product, the user accepts all responsibility for and all liability associated with such use.

PROCEEDING WITH THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION AND/OR PRODUCT INDICATES AGREEMENT WITH AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE LIABILITY DISCLAIMER.
 
1.2.1.1. Think Safety
Power supplies, battery chargers, batteries, motors and related accessories, tools and equipment can be hazardous if improperly used. Be cautious and follow all safety recommendations when using this product. Keep hands, tools, clothing, liquids and all foreign objects and flammables well clear of equipment prior to and during operations. Check and double check all electrical connections before operating.  
 
WARNING - FIRE RISK
 
If this product or any wire, cable, adapter or other device to which it is connected Overheats, Smokes, Smells or Swells then IMMEDIATELY UNPLUG all connections & MOVE ALL COMPONENTS to a Safe Outdoor Location.
 
Do NOT Overload, Short Circuit, Drop, Mechanically Damage or Immerse 

Do NOT connect or operate Near Flammable Materials.

Do NOT operate inside an Automobile or other Vehicle.

Do NOT operate when Hot.

Do NOT operate in a wet environment.
 
Ensure that devices to which this product is connected have compatible voltage and current requirements.   
 
UNPLUG WHEN UNATTENDED
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1.2.1.2. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Introduction
Before proceeding please read the Overview and check off the components provided against the Contents list below. Leave the components in their packaging for now. Do not remove a component from it's packaging until it is needed.  
 
1.2.1.3. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Contents
This VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate battery consists of the following:
  • The battery itself consisting of 1 or more A123 Nanophosphate cells
  • Wiring and connectors supplied with and/or attached to the battery
  • Documentation.

 

1.2.1.4. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Installation Instructions
Consult any labels carefully, particularly any WARNING labels. The labels are largely self explanatory. Reading the labels will save you a great deal of time and help prevent damage to your equipment.
 
Review carefully the following specifications printed on the battery:
Voltage - This is usually a multiple of 3.3. for example 3.3 Volts, 6.6 Volts, 9.9 Volts, 13.2 Volts etc. Ensure that the battery voltage is suitable for use with whatever you connect the battery to.
 
Capacity - This is stated in mAh for example 1100 mAh, 2300 mAh etc. 
 
MAX CELL CURRENT - A123 Cells are capable of 30C continuous current and 60C current for up to 10 seconds. The actual 30C and 60C current values in Amps are stated on the battery. These values are large and they are correct for the cells themselves but the battery pack assembly should not be assumed to be able to provide current at these levels. Often the manufacturer of the connector or wiring or internal welding strips has lower maximum current values. Look for lower limits stated on the battery,  for example "Connector rated for 45A". Ensure you test to ensure that your application does not exceed either the 30C rate or the third party component rating (such as the connector) whichever is lower.
 
MAX CHARGE - A123 Cells can be charged at up to the 5C rate. The actual 5C current value in Amps is stated on the battery. Make sure you do not exceed the MAX CHARGE current when charging. A123 cells perform best when balanced. The balancing voltage should not exceed 4.2V/cell. This is best done at a low current value such as 50mA or less.  
 
Connectors:
If your battery was supplied with an output power connector such as an Anderson Power Pole or a Deans Connector we strongly suggest NOT changing the connector. If your intended application requires a different connector we suggest using an adapter to mate the battery to your device.
 
If your battery was supplied with output power wires only (no connector) you need to install your choice of connector:
  • We strongly encourage the use of Anderson Power Pole connectors using 45 Amp contacts professionally crimped into place or Deans connectors professionally soldered to the power wires of the battery.
  • Remove the insulation from only one wire at a time to avoid the wires every contacting each other. Contact will create a high current short circuit that can cause a fire and damage your battery.
  • Ensure that the red wire is joined to the positive (+) connector and the black wire is joined to the negative (-) connector. Incorrect polarity will damage the battery and devices to which the battery is connected and may cause a fire.  

UNPLUG WHEN UNATTENDED. DO NOT SHORT CIRCUIT.
 
 
1.2.1.5. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Operating

Powering Up - Turning On

A) Consult any labels carefully, particularly any WARNING labels. The labels are largely self explanatory. Paying attention to the labels will help prevent accidents and damage to your equipment.

B) Consult the documentation that came with the device you are going to connect your battery to.
  • Ensure that the voltage of the battery is suitable for use with the device.
  • Ensure that the current rating of the battery is suitable for use with the device.
  • Ensure that the power output plug on the battery is compatible with the power input connector on the device. If not, we strongly suggest using an adapter rather than cutting connectors off and rewiring.
  • Ensure you know how to turn the device on and off and what to watch for in the way of indicator lights etc.
C) Turn the device off before connecting the battery.
 
D) If the device has external moving parts such as a propeller, wheels, tires, shafts, gears etc ensure that the moving components are standing clear of any obstacles, hair or clothing. Be particularly careful to protect your eyes and fingers and the eyes and fingers of others. Ensure that the device cannot move if power is suddenly applied.
 
D) Connect the battery to the device.
 
E) Ensure that the device cannot move if power is suddenly applied. Turn on the device and operate the device through its full range of power settings.
STAY ALERT FOR OVERHEATING, SMELLS, SMOKE OR OTHER SIGNS OF TROUBLE. UNPLUG ALL CONNECTIONS IMMEDIATELY IF THE BATTERY OR ANY CORD OR DEVICE OVERHEATS, SMELLS, SMOKES, SPARKS OR MAKES ANY UNEXPECTED NOISE OR EMISSION AND REMOVE COMPONENTS TO A SAFE OUTDOOR LOCATION UNTIL COOL.
 
 
Powering Down - Turning Off.

UNPLUG WHEN UNATTENDED.
A) Turn off all devices powered by the battery.
 
B) Unplug all devices and wiring from the battery.   
 
 
 
 
 

1.2.1.6. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Charging
Charging correctly safely provides the best performance from your battery and maximizes it's life span.  

VMAX Lithium Ion batteries use A123 Nanophosphate cells. These cells are considerably more tolerant of over discharge, over charge and current values than many other batteries. They are more robust and much safer than Lithium Polymer batteries. However, it is important to use common sense, follow instructions and understand what you are doing when charging.

A) From the battery label determine:

Voltage - Make sure you know the voltage of and the number of cells (Voltage/3.3) in the battery. Consult the battery label. Typical values for VMAX Lithium Ion batteries are as follows: 3.3V (1 cell), 6.6V (2 cells), 9.9V (3 cells), 13.2V (4 cells), 16.5V (5 cells) etc
 
Capacity - This is stated on the battery label in mAh for example 1100 mAh, 2300 mAh etc. 
  
MAX CHARGE - A123 Nanophosphate Cells can be charged at up to the 5C rate. The actual 5C current value in Amps is stated on the battery. Make sure you do not exceed the MAX CHARGE current when charging. 
 
Balance Voltage - A123 Nanophosphate cells perform best when balanced. The balancing voltage should not exceed 4.2V/cell. This is best done at a low current value such as 50mA or less. Although balancing is important it is less critical with A123 Nanophosphate cells than Lithium Polymer. Typically 95% of more of the battery capacity can be obtained without balancing. The final 5% of capacity requires balancing.
B) Select your charger. We recommend a charger that is capable of balancing the cells. Slow chargers will take up to a few hours to charge your battery and generally connect only via the white balance connector on your battery. Fast Chargers can charge your battery in a little as 15 minutes provided that the charger is capable of operating at the 5C charge rate. Fast chargers usually work with dual connections, one set of wires runs to the power connector on the battery while a second set runs to the balance connector. 
The VMAX Slow Charger #VME-LPBC10 works well 2 and 3 cell VMAX Lithium Ion batteries. No programming or switch settings are required.

The VMAX Fast Charger #VME-LPBC50 works well with VMAX Lithium Ion batteries having up to 5 cells (16.5 Volts). This charger uses a menu driven program to set voltage and current limits.
 
C) Follow the instructions that came with your charger. Set your charger to match the Voltage, Capacity, Max Charge and Balance Voltage of your battery. In many cases the capacity is not selectable and the charger will automatically bring the battery to near 95% capacity before beginning a slower trickle charge cycle to top up the final 5% of capacity.  
 
DO NOT CHARGE UNATTENDED
STAY ALERT FOR OVERHEATING, SMELLS, SMOKE OR OTHER SIGNS OF TROUBLE. UNPLUG ALL CONNECTIONS IMMEDIATELY IF THE BATTERY OR ANY CORD OR DEVICE OVERHEATS, SMELLS, SMOKES, SPARKS OR MAKES ANY UNEXPECTED NOISE OR EMISSION AND REMOVE COMPONENTS TO A SAFE OUTDOOR LOCATION UNTIL COOL.
 
D)  When charging is complete, unplug your battery from all connections and unplug your charger and/or the power supply connected to your charger.
 
UNPLUG WHEN UNATTENDED
 
 
 

1.2.1.7. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - No No's & Must Do's
Do NOT OPERATE NEAR FLAMMABLE MATERIALS.  Do not operate near flammable liquids or gases, on or near a carpet or any flammable surface.

Do NOT OPERATE inside an automobile or other vehicle. If using a cigarette lighter adapter or connecting to automobile power ensure that the cord is long enough to connect to the battery located outside and away from the vehicle.

Do NOT OPERATE WHEN BATTERY IS HOT. Vmax Lithium Ion batteries use A123 Nanophosphate cells. These cells heat up much less under high current loads that Lithium Polymer batteries. Vmax Lithium Ion batteries will feel warm when providing high current but should not become so hot that you cannot tough them. If the becomes too hot to comfortably touch, understand why it is hot. Check your connections. If the battery and anything it is connected to appears to be functioning properly the battery may be overloaded by devices to which it is connected. Reduce the load.
 
Do NOT MODIFY WIRING OR CONNECTORS. If your battery was supplied with factory installed connectors we strongly suggest using these connectors. If a battery connector is not compatible with the device to which you intend on connecting the battery, use an adapter rather than changing connectors on the device or the battery.

CONNECT TO DEVICES HAVING COMPATIBLE VOLTAGE & CURRENT REQUIREMENTS. Ensure that the output voltage and current of your battery is compatible with the device you intend connecting it to. Ensure that external devices do not overload the battery with more current than it can supply.

DO NOT OPERATE in a WET ENVIRONMENT. This battery is NOT intended for operation in a wet environment. It is NOT water or weather proof. Keep the battery dry and clean at all times.  
 
CHARGE CORRECTLY.  Review the voltage, charging current limit and balancing voltage stated on the battery label. Review the charging guidelines provided elsewhere in this document. Review the instructions that came with your charger and ensure that you know how to connect to and control the output from your charger.

ALWAYS UNPLUG WHEN UNATTENDED. Do not leave your battery connected to anything when unattended. Nothing!

 

1.2.1.8. Support

On Line, eMail, Fax, Phone, Mail

We offer the Best in Support Services.
We back up our products and our customers with the best support services available. From our industry leading Knowledge Base to information about your Shipment, we've got you covered!
 
To access our Support Services please:
Your Choice of Support Services that Work for You: 
1.2.1.8.1. Contact Us

For Sales and other Inquiries  

Support - Contact Us - Reach our Sales Department by eMail, Fax, Phone or Mail

Technical Inquiries:

Please review the information provided in our Knowledge Base. After checking our Knowledge Base, if you need further assistance please use our Submit A Question service to get a response within 2 Business Days.

 

Sales Inquiries: 

Please note that our Sales Department personnel are trained and dedicated to:

  • Helping you with non-technical pre-purchase questions,
  • Helping you place your order,
  • Pointing out any sales, combos or specials that you may wish to consider,
  • Inputting your order to our computer system so that it ships out as accurately and quickly as possible... usually the same day,  
  • Resolving any invoicing problems, and
  • Helping to sort out any missing shipment or shipment damage issues.
Their depth of technical knowledge is about on par with what is shown in our printed sales literature. In most cases, they are working from the same printed advertisements or content from our web site that you are. Asking sales personnel to confirm the size, color and availability of a product is well within their capabilities. However, asking detailed questions about technical issues is not.

 

Buy our Products: 
  • From a Retailer
    • Please support your local retailer.    
  • On Line 24x7x365... if your favorite Retailer does not have what you are looking for, please visit one of our On-Line Stores. 
      • For Radio Control,
      • For ZAP Brand CA, cyanoacyrlates, superglue & epoxies
    • www.supplystore.com
      • Supplying ZAP Brand CA, cyanoacyrlates, superglue, epoxies, related accessories and more to End Users & Consumers in the Building Construction, Repair & Maintenance Trades. Also Fine Woodworkers, Stagecraft Artisans, Professional Detailers, Sportsmen & Scale Model Builders.
    • www.zapglue.ca
      • Supplying ZAP Brand CA, cyanoacrylates, superglue, epoxies and related accessories to End Users & Consumers in the Industrial, Manufacturing, Assembly and Laboratory sectors.
  • Order By Fax 24x7x365
    • 604-940-1063
  • Order By Phone M-F 11am-4pm Pacific Time
    • Order Desk 604-940-1066    

 

For All Other Inquiries... please consult the following resources:

  • After reviewing our On Line resources, if you require additional assistance please contact us by eMail, fax, phone or mail as follows:

    • Ask a Question
    • eMail 
    • Fax
      • 604-940-1063
    • Phone
      • 604-940-1066
    • Mail
      • Richmond RC Supply Ltd, #114 - 7350 72nd Street, Delta, BC, V4G-1H9
        • Mail & printed correspondence only.                
        • We are not able to accomodate personal site visits or drop-offs/pick-ups at this location.
        • Please note that all inbound Shipments require pre-Authorization in advance.
        • Unauthorized inbound shipments will be refused.        

 
1.2.1.9. Warranty

This product is warrantied to the original buyer to be free of manufacturing defects for a period of 6 months from date of purchase.

Problems caused by alteration, normal wear and tear, physical damage, abuse, improper use, failure to comply with the setup and operating instructions, customer disassembly, changes to the wiring or connectors or damage caused by incorrect charging or damage caused by the use of other accessories or products to which the battery was connected are not covered by this warranty.

All warranty returns MUST be accompanied by an RMA number and a dated sales receipt from an authorized VMAX re-seller and the original VMAX packaging along with all of the adapters and connectors supplied with this product.

All returns must be SHIPPED PREPAID to the VMAX Service Center in your market area.
 
See "Support" for information about Warranty Claims.
 
1.2.1.10. Keep Up to Date

Check Frequently for Updates

Support - Stay Current - Check Frequently for Updated &/or Additional Information
This information is subject to change without notice. When viewing this information in a printed form the printing date will be visible in the lower right corner. Check frequently for updates &/or Additional Information.at www.richmondrc.com, > Enter the Site, > Support Services, follow the links to our Knowledge Base. Review the Table of Contents and search for the name and/or part number of this product.
 
For automated notification of changes to information contained in our Knowledge Base please register as a Priority Response member and subscribe to our Priority Response Notification Service.
1.2.2. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Additional Information

In general "Additional" Information is:

  • In addition to that found in other documentation related to this product,
  • Often reflects feedback &/or questions from users of the product.

Subject to the Conditions of Use, please review the attachments and related articles listed below. 

1.2.3. VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate - Pictures, Graphics & Artwork
1.2.3.1. Pictures - VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate
1.2.3.1.1. Pictures (CMYK_TIF) VMAX Lithium Ion - A123 Nanophosphate