DuraTrax IntelliPeak Ice DC Competition Computerized Charger, Discharger and Cycler

[StevePond]

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/duratrax/dtxp4170.jpg


IntelliPeak Ice meets the special charging needs of experienced electric car, truck and boat modelers, offering the a wide range of charge rates…the flexibility to handle multiple battery types…four charge modes (linear, reflex, impulse and "four-step")...plus easy operation and numerous programming options.

• Handles 1-10 NiCd or NiMH cells, and 1-4 lithium-ion (Li-Ion) or lithium-polymer (Li-Po) cells.

• Displays graphs which show charge and discharge voltage curves.

• Performs 1-10 cycles (NiCd and NiMH only) — retrieves data for 10 full cycles.

• Program up to 10 batteries in memory by custom names for easy recall and charger set-up.

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/duratrax/dtxp4170_Summary.jpg

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/duratrax/dtxp4170_StepCharge.jpg

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/duratrax/dtxp4170_Charge.jpg


The large LCD screen shows 8 lines of data and 21 characters per line, and even charts charge and discharge voltage curves! More information can be viewed without scrolling - making menus easy to use and messages easy to read.

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/duratrax/dtxp4170_breakin.jpg

Its ability to break-in electric motors or operate commutator lathes is another IntelliPeak Ice feature that distinguishes it as the racer's choice among chargers.
With its advanced technology, uncomplicated menus, and simple pushbutton and dial operation, the Ice makes an enormous variety of functions very easy to use.

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/duratrax/dtxp4171-2.jpg

An optional temperature probe is available to monitor battery pack temperature. The simple but effective design of the sensor bracket allows the sensor to be quickly attached and removed from the pack while firmly holding the sensor in place for accurate temperature readings.


• Input Voltage: 1-15V DC
• Battery Types, # of cells: 1-10 Nickel-Cadmium cells (1.2-12.0V NiCd)
• 1-10 Nickel-Metal Hydride cells (1.2-12.0V NiMH)
• 1-4 Lithium-lon or Lithium-Polymer cells (3.6-14.8V Li-lon/Li-Po)
• Battery capacity range: 100-9900mAh
• Fast charge current: 0.1-8.0A (1C max for Li-lon/Po)
• Fast charge methods: linear, reflex, impulse and 4-step
• Fast charge termination: Peak detection for NiCd and NiMH "constant current / constant voltage" for Li-lon / Li-Po optional thermal cutoff for all battery types
• Peak sensitivity: 0-25mV adjustable
• Trickle charge current: 0-500mA (n/a for Li-lon / Li-Po)
• Discharge current: 0.1-10.0A adjustable
• Dishcharge cut-off voltage: 0.1-1.1V per cell NiCd & NiMH 2.5-3.7V per cell Li-lon / Li-Po
• Temperature cut-off range: 50-132°F (10-56°C)
• Cycle count: one to ten cycles (n/a for Li-lon / Li-Po)
• Cycle cooloff delay: 1-30 minutes adjustable
• Battery memories: 10
• Display type: 8 line, 21-character LCD (168 characters max)
• Graphical displays: Graphs charge and discharge voltage curves
• Output connectors: banana jacks (two adapter leads included)
• Motor break-in: 1.0-8.0V selectable, 1-120 minutes, 10A constant
• Case size: 5.5 x 1.8 x 5.9" (140 x 45 x 150mm)
• Weight: 21 oz. (605g)

Item no. DTXP4170
Price: 139.99

[Racer Rob]

Woah! Way to go Duratrax.

[Hard Core RC Guy]

Looks nice, always clean designs for Duratrax

good price point too.


Hey Steve, how's it going?

John :cool:

[Racer Rob]

Whens it due out? forgot to ask.

[mwcet8k]

This looks really nice. I don't care what anyone says about Duratrax, I like the stuff they've been releasing lately. I've got a Pirahna Digital charger, which sells for around $50. For the money, nothing else even comes close as far as I can tell. I've also got an 8T Pro Forward ESC and have been really happy with it too - very smooth and extremely easy to program. I'm thinking the Ice may be my next charger.

[rcguy2477]

Looks awsome, especially for the price. From the looks of it, this is far better than the pulsar and quasar as far as features go. I also love the larger screen.

[mwcet8k]

Check this out:

http://www.duratrax.com/caraccys/dtxp4320.html

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/WTI0095P?FVSEARCH=DTXP4320&FVPROFIL=++&search3=Go

Not bad for $50. Keep it up Duratrax.

[zilch]

Needs to be AC/DC.

[rcguy2477]

All competition chargers are dc only. Ac/dc chargers sometimes have problems with heat, and are also double the size because of the power supply. Also, if they had a built in power supply, it would have to supply at least 13 amps, which is almost unheard of for ac/dc chargers.

[Pro3/nmt105]

I wonder who makes it? Integy doesnt have anything like this...

[TRF Drive Hard]

Must... have... it... must... i must...

[JimmyMac]

I might have to get one. Would work great on charging my Li-Po batteries for my micro helicopter.

[tracer]

I wonder who makes it? Integy doesnt have anything like this...

Thats funny. It's not like Integy makes anything either.
Probably some taiwanese manufacturer we've never heard of.

[Cain]

This looks nice. Only gripe is that it should have a better discharge rate, but other than that I like what I see.

[agalanis]

Sweet, I'll buy two! Finally something to buy at the hobby show.

[Pro3/nmt105]

Thats funny. It's not like Integy makes anything either.
Probably some taiwanese manufacturer we've never heard of.
Good point, actually the Integy chargers are sold and made (Im 90 percent sure) under the name Eagle in Asia but are relabeled by integy.

[bsr241]

Apex out of hong kong makes a lot of the integy and duratrax chargers. Also make the 20a discharge tray.

www.apexhk.com (http://www.apexhk.com/)

[JimmyMac]

They also make the Reedy Charger too.....

[metalry101]

I'm sold, when will it be arriving at my hobby shop?

[FifthScaleRacer]

this sounds awesome :)

[always_opencarb]

so do i have to get a converter to run this?

[24601]

Interesting.
Charges fewer cells than the Electrifly Triton (nicad and Nimh), but has the graph and run in feature that the Triton does not. I wonder what the actual street price will be. I was going to get the Triton to do robot packs but now I need to look more at this one.

[JimmyMac]

Street Price will be just under $130.

[cpittmx]

looks like the same case as the triton, just a different color and a bigger display..so i would guess whoever makes the triton also makes this one.

[metalry101]

Check this out:

http://www.duratrax.com/caraccys/dtxp4320.html

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/WTI0095P?FVSEARCH=DTXP4320&FVPROFIL=++&search3=Go

Not bad for $50. Keep it up Duratrax.

Thanx 4 the link...that's quality stuff. I need one of those...

[elecracr]

Does anyone know if you can use that 50 dollar power supply from duratrax with this thing?

[guver]

I would not try it, the 7 amp unit from dtx voltage spikes up too high and sends the "triton" into "input voltage error" I'm guessing the same will happen with this ice.

Another thing is it isn't big enough power supply. (unless your not going to max it out by using 8 amps and 10 cells)

[YoKoMo-MX4]

I checked out one of these chargers today at my LHS. I'm very impressed. I've NEVER been a fan of Duratrax anything, but this is certainly a 'quality looking' product. I really love the blue anodized body. The photos on this thread (and Duratrax's site) do not do it justice. It is very appealing to look at :)

I hooked one up to my power supply and went through the menus and settings. It is VERY intuitive and quick to use with the spin/push navigation wheel. The 'step charge' is a neat feature and the graphing is a cool 'bling' feature, not to mention the motor 'run in' feature, BONUS! This charger is probably the most easy to configure I have ever seen. The interface and navigation wheel remind me of the Turbo 35 GFX, but at one-fourth the cost!

I cannot really say if the charger is 'good' however, since I did not cycle any packs on it. I just hope it does not suffer from problems like similar 'low end' chargers. In my opinion, this will be a very popular charger in 2005.

'nuff said,
MX4

[fastharry]

the only problem I see with it is not a hight enough discharge rate...and thats the reason I won't buy it..

[tracer]

the only problem I see with it is not a hight enough discharge rate...and thats the reason I won't buy it..

For this price, get a discharge tray and still save tons of money!

[pballdude]

I also checked it out at my LHS. One nice charger. I have the digital pirahna charger, but soon upgrading.

[hooked911]

anybody know how this charger handles lipo cells

[JimmyMac]

If you would have read the first page, you would already know this.. hehe... :p

[fastharry]

For this price, get a discharge tray and still save tons of money!

My idea of cycling is not to have to disconnect and hook the battery to my trays.......

[tracer]

My idea of cycling is not to have to disconnect and hook the battery to my trays.......

Correct me if I'm wrong but cycling batteries isn't really needed for NiMh batteries. I've read this on several battery FAQs on the net.

[tracer]

If you would have read the first page, you would already know this.. hehe... :p

The fact that it states it can charge LiPol cells vs. HOW well it actually performs the task are two different things.

[strodedawg]

i just used the ice last night at practice and is very easy to use and ran my motors in well. the batteries never overheated and the charger stayed cool and never missed a beat.

[MADLUX]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v168/MADLUX/Dscf0927.jpg


Here is mine cycling a practice pack, It brought this pack back to life! I love this charger, it has more features than you will know what to do with!! It is a must buy!!!!

[megamule]

Madlux & strodedawg - where did you buy your ICE chargers? I have 2 on backorder on Tower ... they're not expected in til end of December :(.

/Hans.

[MADLUX]

I had mine on my christmas list and my mom got lucky enough to get it from tower at the first release.

Do you by chance live in Virginia, in the tidewater area?

[megamule]

No ;-), Stockholm, Sweden (Europe) ;-)

[strodedawg]

i live in pennsylvania and got it at the lhs i work at. charged my li-pos for my rc18t and as far as i'm concerned they were fully charged and gave great power output. just ordered duratrax's 20A discharger too.

[lonepalm4]

Hi all...just got my ice and ran a few charges/ cycles through it, and all i can say is that this is a hella nice charger for the price. i really like the 10 programmable memories to store the various types of batts i run. there are a few small details that could be improved (like the graph info is deleted if you hit the back button, the dial has a cheesy "feel" and sometimes "misses" or skips a line), but for the price, there is not a competative charger on the market. i have my 2nd on order...sold my turbo 30 + millenium - i think i'll be very happy with this trade...

[reptile]

:D Go here this guy has them www.allerc.com

[Windsorguy99]

Does this Charger suffer from any of the quirks of previous chargers like the Triton (seems most similar to the Tritonin functionality) where it will only charge 4cell packs at 4A...

How was the 'punch' of your cells? Some chargers seem to be able to give your packs more zip than others...

how does this charger compare...I'm seriously thinking about replacing my T35Stealth with one of these...

As far as cycling packs, I prefer to bring my cells down on a tray...I've only been using my chargers discharge feature when trying to determine battery life at the end of a run...if I'm bringing my cells down though I ALWAYS prefer to do it on a tray to help prevent cell reversal...

[guver]

I just read the complete manual, and don't see a chart. I would be very interested to see what rates it will do at low voltages and high voltages.

Anyone have info on the charge/discharge rates at 1-5 volts . Cool if it will do the complete range. I need one that will do single cells at at least 5 amps.

[lonepalm4]

This charger will charge any nimh or nicad at .1-8 amps, and discharge them at the same. Even a 4 cell pack can be charged at 8 amps. Thats why i sold my triton - needed more punch for the 1/12. i like to cycle the cells the morning before racing to make sure they are awake so i don't waste time when i get to the track.....even nimh need a few cycles after sitting a week or two to get the most out of them.

[guver]

Can someone verify that it will charge 1 cell at 8 amps and discharge 1 at 10 amps?

thanks

[hooked911]

One more time... Has anyone been using this charger for LIPO and how does it perform??
Thanks.

[Laterilus]

Has anyone utilized the reflex, impulse, or 4-step charge modes? I see that the reflex and impulse are described as accomplishing the same effect of releasing trapped air bubbles in cells. Does anyone know if this really works? Secondly, I'm very curious about the 4-step mode and how it can supposedly increase cell capacity and punch. Problem is I don't know what general rules of thumb to follow for setting the amps in each of these 4 steps.

[lonepalm4]

Hi. The guidlines for the 4 step are outlined in the instructions, and tell you what each step does and what to set the amps at....basically start low, then go high, then low, then lower.. if you go really high, your pack life will be shortened exponentially. Also, only use the reflex mode for nicads, because this can ruin nimh cells. You also must purchase the temp probe to be able to use the 4 step charge- and only use it on a fully discharged pack. I have tried it a couple times, but could not really tell a difference in performance--yet---but it did take forever to charge the pack..... I can't tell u the guidlines for when to use the impulse charge, as the instructions are kinda vauge..

[Laterilus]

Thanks for the help.... Fully discharged pack? I thought it was not too great for NiMH cells to be fully discharged. I'm assuming you are putting your packs on a discharge tray then dead-shorting them to get them fully discharged before you try a 4-step charge? Would it be good enough to discharge the cells to the greatest extent the ICE charger can accomplish? I think it is .1V per cell? I can't remember and I don't have the instructions in front of me. Yeah, I noticed the initial settings in the manual on the 4-step charge, but I was curious if there was a better setting right away to set the charger on since I assumed what was written in the manual was very conservative.
Good to know about the reflex charge being destructive to the NiMH. I hadn't tried using it yet. I'm not sure if you noticed this or not, but the instructions have the exact same text written for the reflex and impulse modes for what they accomplish. Maybe the impulse mode is meant for NiMH... however I did notice that you can run both impulse and reflex either at the same time or one at a time but during the same cycle of a 4-step charge. I didn't know which since the wording was somewhat confusing in the instructions.

[MADLUX]

Also, only use the reflex mode for nicads

-I have checked a few of my sources and it is safe to use re-flex on nimh batts. I have even tried it on a battery pack of mine that is pretty old and was starting to go, and it brought it back to decent shape. Of course not like it was brand new, but good enough for a practice pack, or 1st qualifer pack again when I'm racing

[jrjr]

Please compare these 2 and tell me if they are the same. They sure look like they are!

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXDAM4&P=ML

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJAH5&P=7

[glassdoctor]

Yeah, I noticed that the other day at my LHS. I had them order a probe for my ICE, then I see the Triton one sitting on the shelf.

Hmmmm... same darn thing.

[guver]

they are all the same, this one too.

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGRM8&P=7

[jrjr]

The wiring is the same too? There is not that much to them, just wanted to make sure. I have a Triton that I am going to sell and get the Ice. Wanted to keep the temp probe and it is looking like it is going to work out!

[jrjr]

Well the Triton is sold and the ICE is bought. In the ICE manual it states that the temp probes are all the same.

Also in the manual it shows the reflex and impulse both being used on step 3 of the 4 step charge. Any opinions on that??

[guver]

If you don't mind me asking how much did you get for triton. I have a few to sell.

[newracer]

I sold both my my Tritons for $100 shipped each. Got my two Ice chargers today, they are cycling some 4 cell 3300 packs right now. Since I have been in R/C I have owned a Tekin 112a, Novak Millenium and Pro, CE Turbo 35 Stealth, CE Turbo 35 GFX, CE Pitbull, and the Triton. The Ice is the second best charger I have owned, GFX takes first for higher discharge and motor run. When considering the cost the Ice is the best out right now hands down. Very easy to use and all the functions you need. GREAT CHARGER!!!!

The only thing they did wrong was limit the cells to 10. But most people now are using lipo to get higher voltage anyways so no big deal.

[ViperGTSR1736]

Im trying to decide between a Triton and an ICE. The 24 cell capacity and the Lead-Acid option on the Triton is what is keeping me from buying the ICE. Id like to know, is it true that the ICE can NOT charge Lead-acids? Also, I know the triton has voltage booster circutry, where you can charge 24 cells from a 12 volt input, but can you charge 10 cells from a 12 volt input on the ICE? This wouldnt be possible unless it had some kind of voltage booster circutry like the Triton. Im able to charge 10 cells on my old novak because im feeding it 18+ volts from my power supply, sure it gets hot, but it works fine. If I cant charge 10 cells from a 12.0v input on the ICE, im going with the Triton. PLEASE help!

[guver]

I need to know or have someone verify that it will charge and discharge 1 cell at the rated 8 amps and 10 amps. Thanks in advance to you ice users.

Hey Viper I doubt the ice will charge 10 cells at 8 amps from 12 volts. That would be something else maybe a ice user/owner will verify. My guess is 1-2 amps I guess I really need to know that too.

[tracer]

Im trying to decide between a Triton and an ICE. The 24 cell capacity and the Lead-Acid option on the Triton is what is keeping me from buying the ICE. Id like to know, is it true that the ICE can NOT charge Lead-acids? Also, I know the triton has voltage booster circutry, where you can charge 24 cells from a 12 volt input, but can you charge 10 cells from a 12 volt input on the ICE? This wouldnt be possible unless it had some kind of voltage booster circutry like the Triton. Im able to charge 10 cells on my old novak because im feeding it 18+ volts from my power supply, sure it gets hot, but it works fine. If I cant charge 10 cells from a 12.0v input on the ICE, im going with the Triton. PLEASE help!

I can't answer you question directly because I have the Triton and not the I.C.E. However, I can tell you that niether charger is sold by the companies that sell them here. In fact, BOTH chargers are made by the same company!

[glassdoctor]

I'll get some definitive answers on the 1 cell thing later today if nobody beats me to it.

The ICE can charge 10 cells (or 4s lipo=16.8v "peak") on 12V supply. It's in the manual.

Lead acid/gel cells are not in the software for the ICE, but I have charged gel cells with my old Tekin 112s before, so I'm guessing you could if you want. Do you REALLY need a fancy charger to do these?? Isn't that what crappy wal warts are for? ;)

[guver]

Thanks, I appreciate it.

[glassdoctor]

I just charged a single GP3300 and an old RC2000 cell at 8.01A. It worked fine... these cells haven't been used in a while and the 3300 false peaked after a couple minutes, I hit it again and it kept going. I cut off the charge after a few minutes... 8 amps is more than I care to charge these.

I tried a 10 and 11 cell 2000pack. My power supply is a 12V 10A so it might be underpowered for max settings, but...

Both packs were already mostly charged so they were at peak voltage pretty quick. The ICE was pumping +7A when it first started and was down to 6.6 or so when the 10 cell peaked at 18.5V. I am guessing that fresh cells and a bigger power source might keep the amps higher. If a 10 cell peaked around 16 volts like it should, I think the ICE would still be pushing more than 7 amps.... probably not quite 8 though.

The 11 cell pack hit 20 volts and was at 6.5A I think... when the charger stopped and said the voltage was too high for a 10 cell pack as I had it set for. I like it when the charge talks to you. :)

@7A for 10 cells is good enough for me. Beats the craps outta the @3 amps my "5.5A" Integy 16X4pro does for 12 cells.

[ViperGTSR1736]

thanks guys..my questions were for once completely answered! So it looks like ill be going with the ICE, which really pisses me off because I swore to myself a long time ago I'd never buy another Duratrax product. O welll...... BTW, would it be safe to use a Triton to charge a car battery? :eek:

[glassdoctor]

I blacked out all the "Duratrax" logos and stuff on mine and put "Team Novak" decals on it... so mine is officially a new Novak charger. ;)

[newracer]

Here is what you need. I am getting tow for mine.
http://www.endlessvistas.com/tres/new1/ICEa.jpg
available at http://www.tresleonard.com

[kienchan]

Hi guys,

how does the quality of the charge for the ICE compare to other chargers of its kind(all in ones)? Like the LRP Competitions, Eagle CDC's or the Integy chargers.

thanks

[guver]

that sounds good, It is pretty close to doing what it claims. Mine is on order and should be here in a day or two, got to sell 2 tritons now.

[newracer]

Put your Tritons on ebay. Mine sold for $100 plus $7 shipping. You can also try www.rcgroups.com but many will try to low ball there, I sold one there.

[Craps]

I just got one to try with the Li-Pos and it works great. Now there is an alternative to the Astro Flight 109 for about $10 more that will charge li-pos and any kind of nickel battery.

[tracer]

I just got one to try with the Li-Pos and it works great. Now there is an alternative to the Astro Flight 109 for about $10 more that will charge li-pos and any kind of nickel battery.

The Triton did that too. Along with more cells and Lead Acid.

In Fact, both chargers (the triton and the ICE) are made by the same people.

[guver]

Mine just came in and I will test the limits soon. It looks good.

[sugs]

The Triton is a very capable charger, it just has too low an amp limit for charging lipo cells over 2500 mah. I'm not sure why they set the limit so low since it can charge other cells at a higher rate. They need to open it up some more. Right now the Ice is my choice.

[Craps]

That is correct! The Triton will only charge at 5 amps and besides it cost more money than the ICE.

[guver]

The only thing I'm aware that trion does better is the higher cell count on nimh and nicd.

I just got my ice today and chaerged 11 cells at 8 amps (well I set 8) but towards the end it was onjly doing 6.59 amps Not too far off really. Most guys doing 10 cells were getting 7.5

[glassdoctor]

Yes, the amps at the end of the charge depend on how high the voltage gets...cheaper crappier cells = higher peak voltage = lower current.

A 10 cell pack made with new low IR cells will probably peak with the ICE still at 7 amps or more. It will pump out a full 8 amps on any pack with fewer than 10 cells.

I tried a 12 cell pack of old 2000 cells and it worked fine until the voltage got too high and it shut down with an error message saying just that... too many cells/voltage etc...

Anyone here actually need it to do a 10 cell pack?

[guver]

I have an 11 cell truck and frequently want to do 12 to 17 cells. I have to use triton for that. I'm pretty happy so far.

[ViperGTSR1736]

Im running 10 GP 1100 cells in my RC18T, I should be fine if I go with the Ice because id only be charging it at 1-1.5 amps at the most. I wish the Ice had Lead Acid charging capability as well as a backlight...and higher # cells...

[FLYBOY7]

i've seen the max charge rate for the ICE is 1C on li-po... i just want to make sure it will charge my TP-8000 packs at 8 amp, and my TP-6000's at 6 amps before i buy this charger... i bought a Triton before and felt ripped off when i got it home and found it would only charge at 2 amp max rate when on Li-po... hopefully you guys that already own this charger can 100% varify the charge rate on li-po for the ICE...

also.. does the ICE have a faulse peak lock out feature for ni-cad and ni-mh????

thanks guys...

[schenck77]

flyboy7
that is correct when charging your thunder power lipo's. As for the peak lock out, i am not sure cause i changed everything over to lipo's.

[Craps]

i've seen the max charge rate for the ICE is 1C on li-po... i just want to make sure it will charge my TP-8000 packs at 8 amp, and my TP-6000's at 6 amps before i buy this charger... i bought a Triton before and felt ripped off when i got it home and found it would only charge at 2 amp max rate when on Li-po... hopefully you guys that already own this charger can 100% varify the charge rate on li-po for the ICE...

also.. does the ICE have a faulse peak lock out feature for ni-cad and ni-mh????

thanks guys...

I am using one now and it does automatically charge it at 1C up to 8 amps and it will do one better than the Astro Flight 109 by trickle charging it after it obtains full charge with the TP8000-2S4P. I think it is just a little slower than the Astro Flight 109, but I think it puts a better charge on the battery.

You will need use 1 of the 10 battery memories the charger has for each size of battery you use. 1 for the TP8000 and 1 for the TP6000. I highly recommend this 1 charger to charge everything and it is around $10 more in cost than the Astro Flight 109.

I can't help with the nickel battery peak questions either. I got rid of nickel batteries a year ago except for the ones in my radio and will eventually change those out too.

[guver]

It does have a peak delay at start adjustable from 1-10 minutes

[FLYBOY7]

thanks a ton guys... you 100% answered my questions...

and yo Craps... i also run a 109, which i consider to be an awesome charger... but i need another good li-po charger, and 109's are hard to find... i'm a nearly 100% switched over to li-po, but i still run ni-mh cells in my transmitter, and my little AA's in my transmitter false peak like crazy, hence the need for a long lock out...

guess i'm headed to the hobby shop to pick up a new ICE... LOL

[Greg_Hager]

I'd think about getting one if it wasn't from DuraTrax. Had about three bad experiences from them and I'm not about to try it again.

Anyone know if it will come out badged as something else?

See this (http://integy.automated-shops.com/cgi-bin/webc.cgi/st_prod.html?p_prodid=533&p_catid=23&sid=4wSJJh1ETEvz0af-02105560561.4c) and this (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXUF45&P=ML).

Know what I'm sayin?

[Windsorguy99]

This isn't an Apex based charger like the other Duratrax chargers were...

[ViperGTSR1736]

Yes, there are several companies in this corrupt R/C industry that steal other small company's ideas and sell them for cheaper, hurting the small company who invented the item. They dont yet have patents on design, so they are open to be stolen. Duratrax is by far the worst at this, like their Flashpoint temp gun or their chargers. Both were stolen from other companys and sold cheaper....Doesnt that suck??!? :mad:

[newracer]

Im running 10 GP 1100 cells in my RC18T, I should be fine if I go with the Ice because id only be charging it at 1-1.5 amps at the most. I wish the Ice had Lead Acid charging capability as well as a backlight...and higher # cells...
If you really want it to have a backlight

http://copter.threewee.com/andsetinn/Duratrax%20ICE%20Backlight%20modification.pdf

[sugs]

Wow, thats really cool. I wonder if I'm brave enough to try it!

[Craps]

One thing I like about the ICE better than the Astro Flight 109 is the fact if the power blinks (it does alot at the indoor track I race at) the ICE will not come back on in discharge mode like the Astro Flight 109 does. It just resets and waits for you to start again.

Great charger for Li-pos and to charge those other batteries with!

[guver]

Im running 10 GP 1100 cells in my RC18T, I should be fine if I go with the Ice because id only be charging it at 1-1.5 amps at the most. I wish the Ice had Lead Acid charging capability as well as a backlight...and higher # cells...

You should be fine with just 10 cells. That must fly....

[guver]

Yes, there are several companies in this corrupt R/C industry that steal other small company's ideas and sell them for cheaper, hurting the small company who invented the item. They dont yet have patents on design, so they are open to be stolen. Duratrax is by far the worst at this, like their Flashpoint temp gun or their chargers. Both were stolen from other companys and sold cheaper....Doesnt that suck??!? :mad:

I kinda thought they paid them for them designs and just have someone else biuld them and label them.

[guver]

I'd think about getting one if it wasn't from DuraTrax. Had about three bad experiences from them and I'm not about to try it again.

Anyone know if it will come out badged as something else?

See this (http://integy.automated-shops.com/cgi-bin/webc.cgi/st_prod.html?p_prodid=533&p_catid=23&sid=4wSJJh1ETEvz0af-02105560561.4c) and this (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXUF45&P=ML).

Know what I'm sayin?

Integy doesn't make those either. I was told by Integy that they use the same case, but the chargers are different. They sure look the same and have very similar specs.

[guver]

The ice more resembles the triton charger and appears like it was made by same company.

Hey has anyone been using the 4 step profile? That was the selling point for me.

[Craps]

The ICE is great charger that can charge any kind of battery, but if you are going to use Li-Pos exclusively, the Astro Flight 109 will blow it away in charging speed of the big 8000 mah batteries. The ICE takes alot longer to peak the big li-pos than the Astro Flight 109 because it use constant current slowly cutting back until peaked versuses the Astro Flight cutting on and off until peaked.

[guver]

I read that fma is chargeing li-po at 3c now.. what you think? I thougt it was 1c max, but the claim is because of cell balancing.

[FLYBOY7]

i picked up an ICE over the weekend...

i didn't see it mentioned here, but the ICE is a Very cool charger... you can put your name into it, name each charge profile, change sounds, and it has a Lot of adjustments...

i only used it to charge Li-po's over the weekend, and it worked great... so far, two thumbs up... much "cooler" than i thought it would be...

[guver]

I'm very happy with mine so far....

[BrushlessHawaii]

I'm very pleased with my ICE I actually was able to get about a half volt more power out of my batteries than my super brain 969 was able to do.

[guver]

I have been chargeing at a 3c or more and see only 90 deg F temps yet. That is very "cool" nimh batts.

[Tim'sLosi]

Got my ICE today, have to charge my boat's deep cycle battery until my power supply arrives tuesday.

[guver]

Anyone using the 4-step?

[tadium54]

Anything really awkward about this charger? I'm looking to get a few good chargers for my fleet

[guver]

Kinda new still to me, but it is somewhat hard to read display. Also cannot set the rate "on the fly" and the 10 cell limit should've been higher. Nothing really awkward though that I can think of.

[guver]

Here's a report on the ice, I have been using it on my 150 watt power suply and will power it to the max. A couple of tests , however kicked off my power supply when using the "impulse" charge in the 4-step.

I switched to a 175 watt supply and the same thing happened. Both voltages were set at 14 volts. I eliminated the impulse charge and the ice works good.

[b16crxturbo]

Here's a report on the ice, I have been using it on my 150 watt power suply and will power it to the max. A couple of tests , however kicked off my power supply when using the "impulse" charge in the 4-step.

I switched to a 175 watt supply and the same thing happened. Both voltages were set at 14 volts. I eliminated the impulse charge and the ice works good.
Couple of questions for you,
1. How many amps are those power supplies rated at that you are using?
2. What type of battery (both cell type and number of cells) are you charging?
3. What was the charge rate at when the power supply shut down?

[guver]

The 150 watt is 13 amps
The 175 watt is 12 amps

I was chargeing 12 nicads at 8 amps, but the ice will only deliver about 6.25 amps because it is a 120 watt charger.

[guver]

I am going to check it with a 250 watt ps next and engage the impulse engine again.

[guver]

I think the problem was when it spikes up for the impulse charge it momentarily pulls more than 120 watts. the opposite occurs when it is on reflex charge. Makes it kinda tough on a regulated power supply.

[b16crxturbo]

The charger is only rated for 10 cells, does it seem to do ok charging 12? Is this one 12 cell pack or two 6 cell packs?

[guver]

It is 2 6 cell packs, It will charge 12 at maybe 2-3 amps max. I have been using the 4-step charge to try to charge them in a hurry. I can't seem to post an attachment to show the graph.

[jasongins]

I recently purchased this charger and I am having a little difficulty. When I power the unit up, it says the input voltage is somewhere in the 12 volt range. So far, so good. When I attempt to charge a battery (Epic 3000mah NiMH at 5.0 amps, 10mv delta peak), the charge is quicly interrupted with an error message saying:

"The input voltage is 12.xx volts. Please check the input voltage. The input voltage must be 11~15V."

Strange, it is telling me that my input voltage of 12 volts or so is not acceptably between and 11 and 15 volts. I then looked at the input voltage data during a charge by scrolling down on the charge data screen, and it is coming up with just over 10 volts. I suspect I have a power supply problem. It is a large unit, 27 amp, but of a generic non r/c specific make (read CHINESE). What input voltages are you guys seeing during a charge? Do you think the power supply is the culprit or is my new charger the problem? My previous charger was an AC/DC unit, so I have no track record for this power supply.

[lonepalm4]

I recently purchased this charger and I am having a little difficulty. When I power the unit up, it says the input voltage is somewhere in the 12 volt range. So far, so good. When I attempt to charge a battery (Epic 3000mah NiMH at 5.0 amps, 10mv delta peak), the charge is quicly interrupted with an error message saying:

"The input voltage is 12.xx volts. Please check the input voltage. The input voltage must be 11~15V."

Strange, it is telling me that my input voltage of 12 volts or so is not acceptably between and 11 and 15 volts. I then looked at the input voltage data during a charge by scrolling down on the charge data screen, and it is coming up with just over 10 volts. I suspect I have a power supply problem. It is a large unit, 27 amp, but of a generic non r/c specific make (read CHINESE). What input voltages are you guys seeing during a charge? Do you think the power supply is the culprit or is my new charger the problem? My previous charger was an AC/DC unit, so I have no track record for this power supply.

your power supply should supply at leat 12v under load. if its dropping to 10, this is likely causing the ice to stop charging and by the time you see the message, the voltage has returned to the 12v since no load is being drawn from it. that is my best guess. if your charger can hold a steady 12v under load, then you could have a problem with the charger. if you have access to a digital volt meter, you could use this to verify the v drop on your power supply.
good luck...........

[jasongins]

Thanks for the reply. I do have a digital volt meter, and I am going to perform the test tonight. I'll post the results. I appreciate your input.

[sugs]

You should also try and hook it up to your car battery to charge. If it works ok then you know there is nothing wrong with your charger. I have the ice as well and use a gell cell as a power supply with no problems.

[jasongins]

I hooked up a digital volt meter to the power supply. As soon as charging commenced on the ICE, the voltage dropped from 12.5 to about 10.5. I think we've found the problem. I'll be investing in a better power supply. I'm leaning toward a Novak N-power, but will listen to suggestions about others. I don't need huge amperage as I only run one device at one time, namely the charger.

[jeepinator2]

My jog dial button thingamajig is wobbly. I also had the Triton. The dial on that thing was cool! The dial on the ICE sucks! Is mine just broke or are all of them loosey goosey wobbly? And I have to push pretty hard for it to register that I have done so.

Thanks.

[baih]

the novak is only 10amps

[Tim'sLosi]

My jog dial button thingamajig is wobbly. I also had the Triton. The dial on that thing was cool! The dial on the ICE sucks! Is mine just broke or are all of them loosey goosey wobbly? And I have to push pretty hard for it to register that I have done so.

Thanks.

Mine is sturdy and reactive...I would say yours has a problem.

[guver]

Mine is kinda loose/wiggly.

[sugs]

Mine has a little wobble, but the push button and indents are positive.

[Just Gundam]

On my ICE, the finish sound refused to work if the button sound was set to off. Are the two sounds settings not independent?

[sugs]

Mine does the same thing. I don't think they're independent.

[Just Gundam]

I asked because i do not want the button sound, looks like i just have to leave it on.

[b16crxturbo]

Well, I finally decided to order one, I will give an opinion/report after it shows up and I have had a chance to test it out. I will be powering it with a RS 25amp PS. I plan to charge my NIMH and NICD on it.

Has anyone used theirs to charge reciever packs?

[guver]

I use mine for small 5 cell packs and tx packs. I have even chargede tiny 9 volt batts w/ it.

[erikderaaf]

I have the charger for about 2 months now, and i like it!

I charge:
7,2v racing packs (GP3300)
Normal 7,2v Packs (nicads)
Micro 5 cell 2/3AA pack
4 and 4 cell reciever packs
8 Cell transmitter packs
1,2v glowshot cells.

when you got the settings right, the charger will charge them perfectly!

[Mr. Schumacher]

Oh... Masami's new charger! Well, he just promoted it I think. I know he use Team Much More CTX charger at the track but it surprises me that Yokomo re-brand the DuraTrax ICE IntelliPeak charger to Yokomo YZ-110 Pro. Anyway, the case color is much better now so I'm glad to see it. Hopefully, it will come with a back lit display.


http://www.teamyokomo.com/japan/news/08.JPG

[guver]

lots of the intellipeaks looks to be made by apex, I wonder who makes the ice?

[tracer]

Oh... Masami's new charger! Well, he just promoted it I think. I know he use Team Much More CTX charger at the track but it surprises me that Yokomo re-brand the DuraTrax ICE IntelliPeak charger to Yokomo YZ-110 Pro. Anyway, the case color is much better now so I'm glad to see it. Hopefully, it will come with a back lit display.


http://www.teamyokomo.com/japan/news/08.JPG

That's Funny. Duratrax doesn't make anything.
THe ICE is a re-brand of some other brands charger. Yokomo decided to do the same thing.
The ICE and the Triton from Great Plaines is made by the same people.

[guver]

who is it? how about a link?

[ultrawide]

That's Funny. Duratrax doesn't make anything.
THe ICE is a re-brand of some other brands charger. Yokomo decided to do the same thing.
The ICE and the Triton from Great Plaines is made by the same people.

And who may it be then? And i hope you dont mean that the Triton and Ice are the same...

//uw

[tracer]

And who may it be then? And i hope you dont mean that the Triton and Ice are the same...

//uw

The Triton and I.C.E. are very similar. The feature sets are only slightly different (Triton does Lead Acid while ICE does motor run) different but the way the menus work and the specs are very similar. That and a few articles reviewing the ICE mentioned this. As to who makes it? I don't know. I know that Apex made the previous duratrax chargers (inetlipeak).

[Duster_360]

I don't think the Yokomo YZ-110 Pro charger will be back lit either. Whoever is actually making them is prob not changing anything but exterior colors at this point.

It would be nice to have a backlit display, but if thats the only short coming of this charger, I'm over it. Besides, if it really is a critical issue, there are ways to make it backlit.

http://forums.radiocontrolzone.com/showthread.php?t=205300

See the link in the last reply - a way easier mod than the previous one.

[Archyman]

Hello All,
I've been looking to get one of these chargers but have a few ? any help would be great. I've never dealt with using DC mode on any of my chargers I've always just pluged them in. I see alot of people just hooking them up to 12v car batterys and some to power supplies.....I'm looking into the power supply(12v battery to heavy to lug around) But is their any things I should know about them like voltage I've seen them in the 12-14v range and the amps in the 7-10amp range. will any of these power it..got any good brands that you've had good luck with......also gan you use a 12v gel cell battery likewhat's used in a starter box.......thanks for the help...

[guver]

I can't speak to the gel cell, but can hopefully make choosing a power supply easy. It is best to figure out the wattage that you'll be chargeing at by mukltiplying the volts (number of cells times 1.6) times the rate (amps) This is on the oputput side of the charger.

The ice needs 11-15 volts input so the same calculation should be done for choosing the power supply amps. Watts divided by volts = amps (add about 10-30% for safety margin. Here's an example of a average pack.

(6 cell battery) 10 volts charging at 6 amps = 60 watts for output. to figure input power do it backwards by taking the wattage of 60 and divide by the input voltage of the power supply.

60 / 12 volts = 5 amps neccessary to power it , add 10 - 30 % and you need a 5.5 - 6.8 amp power supply to charge a 6 cell pack at 6 amps.

[guver]

Here's another example with 10 cells and 8 amps

16 volts x 8 amps = 128 watts (max power is 120 watts) so a 120 plus the safety margin of 10-30 % = 140-150 watt power supply.

If you are looking at pc power supplies and deliver 11 volts then

150 / 11 volts = 13.63 amps is required (I already added the 20 % for loss/heat)

[Duster_360]

It will work with a gel cell, but just wont let you do much. Guy was talking about using that arrangement but said it would charge 3 3000+mah batts and then would go downhill when charging the 4th if I remember correctly. Its not the way to go. Car batt would be way better because of its larger capacity.

Depends on what you are doing - if you're racing electrics and need to charge lot of batts and breakin motors, the Ice specs call for 12.5amps continous at a voltage of 11-15v. I run nitro and I use a 12amp max, 10amp continuous power supply and it does everything I need it to do. Mines by Victor Engineering, purchased from ProMatch Racing.

Samlex chargers sold on Ebay have a solid reputation and are also sold by Radio Shack (re-branded). You can find occassional sales at Radio shack and get theirs about 1/2 price.

[guver]

If you list your battery specs (cells and charge amps) we can do the calculation. Some good ps are from radio shack, cosel brand, pyramid brand. If you happen to be doing small 1/18 scale and radio batts then a small power supply from lap-tops works ok if the voltage is less than 15 or small power supplies from many electrical things if they are 12 volt work good.

[Archyman]

I'm just going to start to get back into off-road and on-road Elec. racing so I havent gotten all the stuff yet(no Batterys) but looking into 3300 or 3600.

[guver]

Ok, those charge at most 6 amps so a minimum of 60 watt ps will do, there are some nice 75 watt cosels for $20.00

[Archyman]

ok ...now if I get one and its more watts like 75+ or more amps 7.5+ will it hure the charger even if I'm not using all the power...I also will prob. use it to do motor break in's and run various other things(maybe 2 chargers,com lathes,etc.)

[guver]

It will not hurt the charger, but keep in mind that it will only do 75 watts output. If the ice is pulling 60 then as soon as you start another charger it will probably kick off.
You must add the total load together and get a ps that has slightly more power than the total wattage being pulled.

example would be 2 ices ruinning at 60 watts =120 watts Get a 150 watt ps. I have no idea how much a lathe takes, motor breakin is just a few amps.

[Archyman]

Ok great thanks for all the help..I'll prob. just look for the highest wattage and amps I can get..

[rcguy2477]

For breakin, a motor will pull anywhere from 4-10 amps; a lathe will pull about the same. Try to find a power supply with at least 12 amps to make sure that it can handle surges from the motor during run-in.

[Archyman]

ok great thanks ...was just looking at the new LRP coming out...says output is.....dc 13.8v 14a...shown in the new car action...in the IFMAR Elec. off-road worlds...

[kb9n]

Woah! Way to go Duratrax.
I guess, thats really a neat looking charger!!

Cliff :)