HRB Power Batteries 14.8 V (4S)

HRB Power 14.8 V (4S) LiPo Batteries

HRB 4S LiPo packs provide a strong balance of voltage and efficiency for high-demand RC applications. Nominal voltage is 14.8 V (16.8 V fully charged, ~13.2 V at 3.3 V/cell). Typical use cases include 1/8-scale buggies and truggies, 28–36 inch boats, and 5–7 inch performance drones designed around 4S.

When to Choose 4S

• Use if your ESC and motor are rated for 4S (14.8–16.8 V) and you want higher speed with lower current draw compared to 3S.
• Use for 1/8-scale cars and larger boats where sustained power and cooler electronics matter.
• Use for drones built around 4S KV motors (e.g., 2300–2600 KV on 5-inch) for responsive throttle and manageable weight.
• Avoid if your model/ESC is limited to 2S–3S, or if fitment/weight cannot accommodate a 4S pack.
• Avoid for very small platforms (micro drones, 1/24–1/18 cars) that require lower voltage and smaller packs.

Selecting the Right Pack

Capacity and Runtime

Higher capacity (mAh) increases runtime and weight. Many 4S packs are offered in the ~3000–8000 mAh range. Estimate runtime using:

Runtime (minutes) ≈ (Capacity in Ah × 0.8 ÷ Avg Current in A) × 60

• Example: 5000 mAh (5 Ah) at 50 A avg ≈ (5 × 0.8 ÷ 50) × 60 ≈ 4.8 minutes.
• Example: 5000 mAh at 20 A avg ≈ (5 × 0.8 ÷ 20) × 60 ≈ 12 minutes.

C Rating and Current Draw

Continuous current capability ≈ C rating × capacity (Ah). A 5000 mAh 50C pack is theoretically 250 A. Real-world performance is lower; choose a pack that can cover your typical continuous draw with headroom (≥1.5× your expected continuous current) to reduce voltage sag and heat.

• 1/8 buggies/truggies: ~60–120 A average, higher bursts.
• Larger boats: ~80–150 A average, very high bursts.
• 5–7 inch drones: ~30–60 A average depending on prop/motor.

Size, Weight, and Connectors

• Confirm pack dimensions and weight fit your battery tray and balance goal.
• Connector types vary (e.g., XT60, XT90, EC5/IC5, Deans/T-plug). Match your ESC, or use a high-quality adapter with minimal added resistance.
• Strap packs securely; add foam to prevent vibration or impact damage.

Setup and Compatibility

• ESC voltage: Must be rated for 4S (check manual for max cell count).
• Motor KV: For 1/8 cars on 4S, 1800–2400 KV is common; for 5-inch quads on 4S, ~2300–2600 KV; boats often 1500–2200 KV depending on prop/load.
• Gearing: When moving from 3S to 4S, reduce pinion 10–15% to keep temps in check, then tune by temperature after 3–5 minutes of running.
• LVC (low-voltage cutoff): Set around 3.4–3.5 V per cell under load (≈13.6–14.0 V for 4S). Stop running near 3.7–3.8 V/cell at rest.
• Series/parallel: Two matched 2S packs in series can form 4S if your ESC supports it. Use identical packs (same brand, capacity, age, and cycle count).

Charging and Care

• Balance charge only on a LiPo-compatible charger set to 4S (4 cells).
• Charge rate: 1C is a safe default (e.g., 5 A for 5000 mAh). Faster charging increases heat and wear.
• Voltage limits: Do not exceed 4.20 V per cell. Store at 3.75–3.85 V per cell if not used within a day.
• Temperature: Let packs cool to near room temperature before charging. Keep operating temps under ~60°C/140°F.
• Inspection: Stop using packs that are puffed, damaged, or have abnormally high internal resistance.

Safety Notes

• Charge in a fire-resistant area or LiPo bag; never leave charging unattended.
• Do not puncture, crush, or short the pack. Keep away from conductive debris and water.
• Dispose of damaged packs at a battery recycling facility per local regulations.

Alternatives

• 3S (11.1 V): Lower speed and current; good for smaller vehicles and drones; often lighter.
• 6S (22.2 V): Higher efficiency at the same power with even lower current; requires electronics rated for 6S and appropriate KV/gearing; heavier packs.
• Two 2S in series: A flexible way to achieve 4S if you already own 2S packs (must be well-matched).

FAQ

Will an HRB 4S work in my vehicle?

Yes if your ESC and motor are rated for 4S and the pack physically fits. Check connector type and pack dimensions before buying.

What charger do I need for 4S LiPos?

A LiPo balance charger that supports 4S packs and has a balance port. Set chemistry to LiPo, cells to 4S, and start at 1C (e.g., 5 A for a 5000 mAh pack).

How do I set low-voltage cutoff (LVC)?

Use about 3.4–3.5 V per cell under load (≈13.6–14.0 V for 4S). Stop running when resting voltage is ~3.7–3.8 V per cell to preserve lifespan.

How can I extend battery life?

Keep packs cool, avoid over-discharge, charge at 1C, store at 3.75–3.85 V per cell, and avoid leaving packs fully charged for more than 24 hours.

My pack is puffed or damaged—what now?

Stop using it immediately. Do not charge or discharge further. Dispose at a certified battery recycling center and replace the pack.