Spektrum Batteries

Spektrum Batteries: Smart LiPo power for connected RC setups

Spektrum Smart and Smart G2 batteries pair tightly with Spektrum chargers, ESCs, and radios to simplify charging, track pack health, and reduce setup errors. In compatible systems, the pack communicates its chemistry, capacity, charge rate, cycle count, and more through the IC connector, enabling safer, consistent performance with less guesswork.

When to choose Spektrum

• Use if you already run Spektrum Smart chargers/ESCs or want automated charging and battery telemetry.
• Use if you prefer IC3/IC5 connectors with embedded data pin and clean wiring.
• Avoid if you want the lowest-cost LiPo option or do not need Smart features.
• Avoid G2 packs if your charger does not support Spektrum G2; choose Smart (G1) with balance leads instead.

How Smart and Smart G2 work

• Embedded microchip stores pack data: capacity, cell count, charge rate, cycle count, and internal resistance (IR).
• Smart data flows through the IC3/IC5 connector to a compatible charger or ESC for auto-detected settings and telemetry.
• G2 packs typically eliminate the external balance lead and balance through the IC connector, requiring a G2-capable Smart charger for proper balancing.
• In non-Spektrum setups, the pack functions like a standard LiPo. The Smart data pin is unused; no telemetry or automation is provided.

Picking the right pack

1. Voltage (cell count): Match your model’s specification. Examples: 2S for most 1/10 cars, 3S–4S for larger surface or sport airplanes, 4S–6S for 1/8 cars and 500–700 helis.
2. Capacity (mAh): Higher capacity increases runtime but adds weight. For reference: 2200 mAh 3S for park flyers; 4000–6200 mAh 2S for 1/10 cars; 5000–7000 mAh 4S–6S for 1/8 vehicles.
3. C rating: Choose a rating that comfortably exceeds expected current draw. For bashing, a mid-to-high C rating adds headroom; for planes/gliders, prioritize weight and size.
4. Connector: IC3 suits lighter, lower-current builds; IC5 for high-current 4–6S setups. IC3/IC5 are backward-compatible with EC3/EC5 for power only (no Smart data).

Charging and care

• Charge rate: 1C by default unless the pack label specifies a higher safe rate. Example: 5000 mAh at 1C = 5.0 A.
• G2 requirement: Use a Spektrum G2-capable Smart charger to balance G2 packs (no balance lead). Non-G2 chargers generally cannot balance-charge G2 packs.
• Storage voltage: Store around 3.8–3.9 V per cell. Many Smart chargers can initiate auto storage-discharge after a set delay.
• Temperature: Keep packs between ~40–100°F (4–38°C) during use/charge; avoid exceeding 140°F (60°C) and never charge while hot.
• Runtime estimate: Runtime ≈ (capacity in Ah ÷ average current A) × 60. Example: 2200 mAh (2.2 Ah) at 20 A ≈ 6–7 minutes.

Safety essentials

• Charge on a non-flammable surface, inside a LiPo-safe bag or fire-resistant container, and never leave unattended.
• Do not puncture, crush, or short connectors. Inspect for swelling or damage and retire questionable packs.
• Avoid discharging below recommended cutoffs; set ESC LVC appropriately (commonly 3.5–3.6 V/cell under load).

Pros and cons

• Pros: Auto charge setup, pack health tracking, streamlined wiring, telemetry with compatible ESCs.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost than basic LiPos; full feature set requires Spektrum ecosystem; G2 needs a G2-capable charger.

Troubleshooting tips

• No telemetry/auto-detect: Ensure you are using IC3/IC5 (not EC-only), and that the Smart-capable charger/ESC firmware is up to date.
• Charger won’t balance a G2 pack: Use a G2-capable Spektrum charger; traditional balance ports are not present on most G2 packs.
• Connector mismatch: Use appropriate IC-to-EC adapters, but note Smart data will not pass through EC-only connections.

FAQ