artistip

Rechargeable AA batteries are probably the most widespread energy sources in a photographer's bag. I personally have countless AA rechargeables... Some of them are quite old, some are new and some... well I don't really know their condition for sure. or so it was until I found the Maha Smart charger. It happened when I was looking for a better charger to recharge my batteries.

I was using a simple (yet relatively fast) charger, that could charge 4 AA's in two hours. I had two problems with that charger:

1. It could only charge 2 or 4 batteries at the same time. I've already mentioned I have a LOT of them...
2. If any of the cells was broken down, or even just "getting old", the charger refused to work at all, without even indicating which is the faulty cell.

Wanted: 8 cell, fast, indicating charger

Yes, the guide lines were clear: when shooting an event, I never use less then 8 AA cells simultaneously. One set on each flash that's mounted on my cameras. Ioften use additionalbattery operated flashes mounted on stands in the surroundings of the venue. that means I drain a lot of batteries all at once during a typical event. Therefore I need a fast charger, that can "feed" more then 4 cells at once. 8 is fine by me, as long as the charging process is fast enough. I also can't afford to lose a whole working set just because one of the cells became faulty (and it happens once in a while when using rechargeables on daily basis). That's when I was introduced to the Maha Smart Charger.

Here's what you need to know about the Maha Smart Charger:

Eight Independent Charging Circuits

Eight independent slots that charge one to eight AA or AAA batteries in any combination.
(Rechargable batteries not included with charger. Can be bought separately)

Large LCD display

The MH-C800S charger incorporates a large LCD screen displaying the charging status of each battery. The English-language-based display (CHARGE, DONE, CONDITIONING, etc) replaces traditional LED indicators.

Selectable Soft and Rapid Charge Modes

The soft charge delivers the highest battery life and allows 100% compatibility with older, lower capacity batteries. The fast charge allows eight batteries to be fully charged to their maximum capacity in around one to two hours!
Fast Charge Current: 1000mA (AA), 700mA (AAA)
Soft Charge Current: 500mA (AA), 350mA (AAA)

Charge Time: 1-2hrs (Normal Mode) / 3-4hrs (Soft Mode).

Precision Microprocessor Controlled

MH-C800S features Maha's latest 0.001V precision microprocessor. This microprocessor will charge batteries to their maximum capacity without overcharging or undercharging. The new precision microprocessor assures maximum battery longevity, delivering just the right charge every time.

Built-in Deep Battery Conditioning System

The Eight Cell charger is embedded with a high-rate battery conditioner that will charge, deep-discharge and recharge batteries automatically for maximum rejuvenation.

Worldwide Compatible

Charge batteries anywhere around the world with the included 100-240V, 50/60Hz universal adapter (plug changer may be required).

Dimensions

Charger: 7.5" (W) x 1.75" (H) x 3.25" (D)
Weight: 225g (~8oz) (excluding AC adapter)

Three Years Limited Warranty

The advantages of using a smart charger

• Since I started using using the Maha charger, I've been able to restore some of the older batteries which I thought were dead. My older charger refused to charge them just because few cells were worn out. I took 20 old AA's of the same type and model, conditioned them with the Maha charger, and disposed the ones that were faulty. from the 5 sets that were out of use I brought 3 sets back to life and I also have two more cells to spare.

• The same goes to newer cells. I can always monitor and be alerted on the performance of my individual cells. If one is weakening, I simply take it out of the rotation. This way I make sure I power my flashes only with fresh and powerful batteries, and I also extend the cells life expectancy.

• The combination of 8 cells, and a powerful, fast charging circuit is a winner. I never run short of AA's anymore. better then that, I never need to worry if I have enough spare ones or if my charger will or won't charge my drained sets.

Conclusion:

I Highly recommend the Maha Smart Charger, because it stands out to it's expectations: it's fast, it's smart and it charges 8 cells simultaneously. The added value is the relatively low price. The Maha is sold on eBay (see table below) for as low as $55. Me and some of my colleagues began using it last year, and it's proven helpful and durable, making recharging process faster and smarter then ever before.