Powerex MH-C490F Stealth 2-Hour Compact 4-Bank 9V Charger

Powerex MH-C490F Stealth 2-Hour Compact 4-Bank 9V Charger

A purpose-built 9V charger with four independent bays for NiMH and NiCd rechargeables. It targets a practical ~2-hour turnaround for typical 9V cells and terminates each battery individually for consistent results and reduced heat.

Highlights

• 4 independent slots: charge 1–4 batteries; each bay starts, stops, and indicates status on its own.
• Approx. 2-hour charge for typical 9V NiMH capacities (see timing guide below).
• Microprocessor-controlled charging and proper termination for NiMH/NiCd.
• Per-bay LED indicators for charging and ready states.
• Compact, travel-friendly design for stage, set, shop, or home.

When to choose this charger

• Use if you rotate multiple 9V batteries and need predictable, slot-by-slot control (wireless mics, IFB/IEM packs, guitar pedals, multimeters, detectors).
• Use if you run mixed states of charge; independent termination prevents over/undercharge caused by paired channels.
• Avoid if you need analyzing features (capacity testing, discharge cycles) or PC connectivity—this model focuses on fast, reliable charging.

Charge time expectations

Actual time depends on battery capacity, chemistry, and starting state of charge.

• 180–200 mAh NiMH: ~1.8–2.2 hours from near empty.
• 230–280 mAh NiMH: ~2.3–3 hours from near empty.
• Partially used batteries finish sooner; aged cells may take longer or terminate early if they cannot hold full capacity.

Quick specs

How to use

1. Inspect batteries and contacts; do not use leaking, swollen, or cracked cells.
2. Insert 9V NiMH/NiCd into any bay; confirm solid terminal contact.
3. Power the charger; verify LEDs indicate active charging.
4. Wait for each bay to show ready. Typical turnaround is ~2 hours for ~200 mAh cells.
5. Remove charged batteries promptly for best longevity; store labeled and rotated as sets if used in pairs.

Compatibility notes

• Works with rechargeable 9V NiMH and NiCd blocks. Do not attempt to charge alkaline or primary lithium 9V batteries.
• If your device is chemistry-sensitive, confirm it is specified for rechargeable 9V batteries.
• Battery casing styles vary; ensure terminals seat firmly for reliable charging.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Independent termination per slot, practical fast-charge profile, simple status LEDs, compact size.
• Cons: No capacity test/refresh functions; charge time varies with higher-capacity cells.

Best practices for battery health

• Charge soon after use; avoid deep discharge on NiMH.
• Provide ventilation; avoid covering the charger during operation.
• Label and rotate batteries in matched sets for RF pairs.
• Store at room temperature; avoid hot cars and freezing environments.

Troubleshooting

• LED does not change to ready: Reseat the battery and clean terminals with a dry cloth; check for weak or aged cells.
• Battery feels unusually hot: Remove and let cool; inspect for damage and retire questionable cells.
• Uneven runtimes in pairs: Keep matched sets; replace the weak pack rather than mixing old and new.
• Long charge time: Higher-capacity or deeply depleted cells take longer. Persistent delays can indicate aging batteries.

Safety

• Charge only labeled rechargeable 9V NiMH/NiCd batteries.
• Use on a stable, ventilated surface; keep away from moisture.
• Unplug when not in use or during extended storage.
• Recycle damaged or end-of-life batteries responsibly.

FAQ

Can I charge just one 9V battery?
Yes. Each of the four bays operates independently.

Does it work with both NiMH and NiCd?
Yes, it supports rechargeable 9V NiMH and NiCd batteries.

Is the 2-hour time exact?
No. Expect roughly 2–3 hours depending on capacity (e.g., ~200–280 mAh), chemistry, and starting charge.

Can I leave batteries in after they are full?
You can, but for best longevity remove them when the bay shows ready and store appropriately.

Will it revive a failing battery?
It will charge any viable cell, but it cannot restore lost capacity in worn-out batteries—recycle those.

How it compares to generic 9V chargers

Many generic units share channels or use simple timers, which can undercharge one battery and overheat another. The MH-C490F monitors and terminates each bay independently, improving consistency, reducing heat exposure, and extending usable battery life.