Which is better, DC or AC/DC?

[Nairb]

Here's the deal. I have a Novak Rhino charger right now and my Power supply is pretty huge and isn't totally reliable. I'm wondering if it would be best to buy a new (and smaller) N-Power supply from Novak, or should I buy an Ionic (AC/DC) charger when they come out? Either choice would help on toolbox room. So, does either choice have major benefits? I have one Panasonic 3000 (Nimh) that I'm not too concerned about, so the Nimh-charging ability of the Ionic isn't a huge feature I'm in need of. I'm replacing all my batteries with new Sanyo 2400s; I'm not gonna waste my time with Nimhs yet. I know the Ionic can only charge at .5, 1.0, and 3.5 amps, but my Rhino can do any amp-rate from 0-10. What would you all reccomend? I'm kinda leaning towards an N-Power ATM...

[Oyster]

Check out the Duratrax Intellipeak AC/DC's. They charge NICD's and NiMH's as well. They're also just Apex chargers with a different paint job.

[dockman]

In the long run you would be better off investing in a new power supply. The small power supplies in ac/dc chargers are not as good as a seperate power supply. Since you already have a dc charger and the better high end chargers are dc only the power supply would be the way to go. Plus the charge rate of the new novak is just to low.
Instead of the N power supply you might want to look at the Astroflight. Its 13.8v and 12.5 amps. This way when your using 2 chargers at 5amps it wont put a strain on it and you will actually be getting 5amps. Plus its cheaper. Tower has it for $89.99 so you would save $30. Its a proven power supply thats been around for a while and a good buy.

[Nairb]

FYI, I'm not budging from a Novak charger (the brand is the BEST), but I might be persuaded to get a different brand power supply.

Thanks, dockman, that's what I've been thinking too. It sounds like the main difference between the N-power and the Astroflight PSs is price, because the specs sound similar. I know a lot of guys who run two Rhinos or Millenia (correct plural?) on one N-power; it even has two output connectors for this purpose. They even reccomend it. What I really like about the N-power is its size; I need a small one to fit in my toolbox with all my other goodies. How does the Astroflight compare? I'll have to research it...

[krayzie]

I would get the N-POWER.iuse one with my millenium charger and its great.

[SirSpeedy]

I use switching supplys like the N-power, that I get through a elctronics supplier friend of mine. It is rated at 12.5A with adjustable voltage from 12-13v. It has screw terminals like the N-power, and is only 1.125' x 6" x 3.75". I have been using it for about 2 months now with no problems.


The best part---> $49.95


If you want info- sirspeedy@rctouring.com

[Nairb]

OMGooodness!! SirSpeedy hit the jackpot, baby! This is such a steal! Check it out at this link:
http://www.mpja.com/product.asp?product=12422+PS
All its features best the N-Power, except for looks and it might not be extremely user friendly like the Novak, but I'm almost 100% sold on it. Here's the kicker, I downloaded the Rhino instruction manual from http://www.teamnovak.com and guess what I saw in the picture? They showed the EXACT same power supply hooked up to their charger. I guess the instructions were made before the N-power existed, eh? I'm all over Novak stuff, but I don't think I can pass this amazing deal up. Besides, it'll free up so much room in my toolbox. Man, you'd die laughing if you saw my current power supply. LOL!

[This message has been edited by Nairb (edited 12-27-2000).]

[dockman]

I would have to say thats a good deal. I might have to get one myself as a backup.

[Losi XXX-NT kid]

I got a intellipeak charger for Christmas and love it .3 of them come witha power supply and they charge nimhs if you ever get some. I got a nihm pack for christmas and used the charger for it and it was awsome. I also have a 1500 pack and a 1700 pack.it charges them well too. Good luck!

[XXXER]

I got a hobicco power supply from West Vally Hobbies(you have probably been there) for 90 bucks, it has one 11.5A output, and a 3A output, for lathes and stuff, i even use it to break in motors

[SirSpeedy]

3A output for a lathe?

It is still 12-13volts though!

That is way to high for a lathe or motor break in!!!!

[XXXER]

sorry, must not have been clear, there are 2 different out put thingies, i use the 11.5A for my charger, and there is ANOTHER output thingy that is 3A, or 5V that i use with lathes and breaking in motors