Powerex MH-C800S 8-Cell Smart Charger

The Powerex MH-C800S is a desktop charger built for people who cycle through lots of AA or AAA NiMH batteries. It charges 1–8 cells independently, supports fast or gentle charging, and includes a conditioning cycle to help recover performance from tired cells.

Why choose the MH-C800S

• Charge flexibility: Mix AA and AAA, old and new, or different charge levels—each slot is managed separately.
• Speed or longevity: Use Rapid mode for quick turnarounds; use Soft mode to reduce heat and extend battery life.
• Per-cell visibility: The LCD shows status for each slot so you can spot weak cells at a glance.
• Battery care: The conditioning cycle deep-discharges and recharges to help rebalance cells that have lost capacity.
• AC-powered reliability: A stable, plug-in charger for home, studio, and event use (no USB power required).

Typical charging times

Actual time depends on cell capacity, age, and selected mode. Expect roughly:

Conditioning cycles take longer (often 6–12+ hours) because they include a full discharge and recharge.

How to use

1. Insert 1–8 NiMH batteries (AA or AAA) in any slots. You can mix sizes.
2. Select Rapid or Soft mode based on your needs. Use conditioning only when capacity drops.
3. Check the LCD for per-slot progress. Remove cells once they read complete and are cool to the touch.
4. Label batteries in sets if you use them together in devices to keep performance consistent.

Best practices for longer battery life

• Prefer Soft mode for routine charging; use Rapid when time matters.
• Run a conditioning cycle every 1–3 months or when run time noticeably declines.
• Avoid charging very hot or very cold cells; allow them to reach room temperature first.
• Do not mix different types or brands in the same device; keep matched sets together.
• Store low self-discharge NiMH partially charged in a cool, dry place.

Compatibility and limits

• Supported: NiMH AA and AAA cells, including low self-discharge types.
• Not supported: Alkaline, lithium primary, Li-ion, LiFePO4, or damaged/leaking cells (do not attempt to charge).
• Power: AC-powered desktop charger; not USB-powered.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Eight truly independent slots, per-cell display, fast or gentle charging, conditioning mode, easy mixed-cell workflows.
• Cons: AC-only (not travel/USB friendly), conditioning is time-consuming, NiMH-only.

Specs at a glance

When to choose it vs. alternatives

• Choose the MH-C800S if: You regularly charge many AA/AAA NiMH cells, want per-cell control, or need a conditioning function.
• Consider alternatives if: You need USB/portable charging, support for lithium-ion cells, or fewer than four bays for travel use.

FAQ