Powerex MH-C204W 1-Hour Worldwide Travel Conditioning Charger

Powerex MH-C204W 1-Hour Worldwide Travel Conditioning Charger

The Powerex MH-C204W is a travel-ready AA/AAA NiMH charger designed for fast, reliable charging and periodic battery conditioning. It supports 100–240 V AC for global use (plug adapter required) and provides straightforward LED status so you can see progress at a glance.

Who It’s For

• Photographers and videographers turning around AA sets for flashes, transmitters, or recorders.
• Field audio and stage crews needing dependable charging between takes.
• Travelers who want a compact, simple charger that works worldwide.
• Home and office users consolidating charging for remotes, headlamps, keyboards, and toys.

Key Features

• Fast turnaround: charges most AA 1900–2500 mAh NiMH cells in roughly 1–2 hours; AAA typically faster. Actual time varies by capacity, age, and temperature.
• Four charging slots for AA or AAA NiMH cells with automatic charge termination to help protect battery life.
• Optional conditioning mode that performs a controlled discharge followed by a full recharge to help restore performance in cells that have lost capacity.
• Worldwide 100–240 V AC input for international travel (use regional plug adapters as needed).
• LED indicators show charging and completion status.

How Fast Is It?

Typical estimates under normal room temperature:

• AA 2000 mAh: about 60–90 minutes
• AA 2500 mAh: about 80–120 minutes
• AAA 800–1000 mAh: about 50–70 minutes

These are estimates; older or heavily used batteries and cooler or warmer environments can extend charge time.

Conditioning Mode: When and Why

Use conditioning when sets start showing shorter runtime or after many shallow top-ups. The cycle performs a controlled discharge and then a full recharge to recalibrate the pack. It is not needed every time; think of it as occasional maintenance.

• Suggested use: only when performance drops or every few months for heavily used sets.
• Time required: plan for several hours (discharge plus recharge).

Use It If / Avoid It If

• Use if you want fast, travel-friendly charging for AA/AAA NiMH with an occasional refresh option.
• Use if you often work in different countries and want 100–240 V compatibility.
• Avoid if you need advanced analytics (capacity testing, per-cell graphs); consider a dedicated analyzing charger.
• Avoid if you need to charge chemistries other than NiMH (e.g., lithium-ion, LiFePO4, alkaline); this charger is not for those.

Compatibility and Safety

• Battery types: AA/AAA NiMH rechargeable cells only. Charge NiCd only if explicitly allowed by your product manual; never charge alkaline or lithium primary cells.
• Environment: operate on a hard, nonflammable surface with good ventilation; avoid covering the charger.
• Travel power: accepts 100–240 V AC. Use a plug adapter that matches local outlets; a voltage converter is not required.
• Temperature: charge at room temperature (about 50–86°F / 10–30°C) for best results.

Quick Start

1. Insert AA or AAA NiMH cells, observing polarity markings.
2. Select normal charge or conditioning mode if a refresh is needed.
3. Wait for LEDs to indicate completed charging; times vary by capacity and condition.
4. Remove finished cells promptly for best longevity.

Care Tips for Longer Battery Life

• Run conditioning sparingly—only when runtime drops noticeably.
• Label cells and keep them in matched sets for devices that use pairs or quads.
• Store charged cells in a cool, dry place; avoid hot cars and direct sun.
• Do not mix old and new cells in the same device.

FAQ

Will it always charge in one hour?

No. One hour is achievable with certain capacities and conditions. Expect about 1–2 hours for most AA 1900–2500 mAh cells; AAA may finish sooner.

Can I use it overseas?

Yes. It accepts 100–240 V AC. Bring the correct plug adapter for local outlets.

Does it work with low-self-discharge (LSD) NiMH batteries?

Yes. LSD NiMH cells are a good match for fast charging and hold charge well between uses.

Can I charge AA and AAA at the same time?

You can charge AA or AAA in the available slots. Follow the product manual regarding the minimum number of cells required per charge cycle and placement.

Does it charge NiCd?

Only if your unit’s documentation lists NiCd compatibility. Do not charge any chemistry not specified by the manufacturer.