Spektrum 22.2 V (6S) LiPo Batteries

Spektrum 6S LiPos provide a nominal 22.2 V (25.2 V fully charged) for platforms designed for high voltage. They are a fit for 1/7–1/5 on-road and off-road cars, large offshore boats, EDF jets, and heavy-lift multirotors. IC5 connectors support high current, and Spektrum Smart features add pack data and streamlined charging within the Spektrum ecosystem.

When to Choose 6S

• Use if your ESC and motor are clearly rated for 6S (25.2 V max). Higher voltage lowers current for the same power, reducing heat and voltage sag.
• Choose for heavy vehicles, large props/fans, or applications needing long high-throttle runs.
• Avoid if your electronics are limited to 2–4S, or if the chassis cannot safely fit the pack size and weight.

Selecting the Right 6S Pack

• Capacity (mAh): 4000–5000 mAh for lighter airframes; 5000–7000 mAh common in 1/7 cars and large boats. Higher capacity increases runtime and weight.
• C rating: Match continuous current needs. Estimate required C as (peak amps ÷ capacity in Ah). Example: a 5000 mAh (5.0 Ah) setup drawing 150 A needs ~30C continuous (150 ÷ 5 = 30).
• Size and weight: Confirm tray dimensions and center-of-gravity requirements, especially for aircraft.
• Connector: IC5 handles high current; it is mechanically compatible with EC5. Use the plug specified by your ESC to avoid adapters where possible.
• Smart features: Full Smart charging/telemetry requires a compatible Spektrum Smart charger/ESC. Without one, the pack functions as a standard LiPo; follow your charger’s instructions and the battery’s documentation.

Runtime and Performance

Approximate runtime (minutes) ≈ (capacity mAh ÷ 1000) ÷ average current (A) × 60. Actual results vary with gearing, prop load, terrain, and throttle use.

• 1/7 speed car, 5000 mAh, 80–120 A average: ~2.5–3.7 minutes.
• Large offshore boat, 6000 mAh, 70–100 A average: ~3.6–5.1 minutes.
• EDF jet, 5000–6000 mAh, 60–90 A average: ~3.3–6.0 minutes.
• Heavy-lift multirotor, 6000–7000 mAh, 25–40 A average: ~9–17 minutes.

Setup Tips

• Gearing/props: Start conservatively on 6S. Monitor motor and ESC temps (<80–90°C/175–195°F max is a common guideline) and increase gearing or prop pitch in small steps.
• ESC configuration: Set low-voltage cutoff to about 3.4–3.6 V per cell under load. Use punch control/throttle curves to manage traction and amp spikes.
• Securing the pack: Use firm straps and foam padding to prevent movement and vibration; avoid compressing the pack.
• Series options: If your model specifies two 3S packs in series, use identical packs (same brand, age, capacity, C rating) and a proper series harness.

Charging and Care

• Charge in a LiPo-safe area/bag on a nonflammable surface. Never leave charging unattended.
• Balance charge at 1C unless the pack and charger explicitly allow higher rates. Allow packs to cool to ambient before recharging.
• Storage at 3.75–3.85 V per cell. Do not store fully charged or fully discharged.
• Inspect for damage, swelling, punctures, or abnormal heat. Retire compromised packs safely.
• Temperature and transport: keep between ~32–80°F (0–27°C) when stored; avoid direct sun and enclosed hot vehicles.

Compatibility Notes

• Max voltage for 6S is 25.2 V. Confirm ESC, motor Kv, capacitors, and wiring are rated accordingly.
• Lower Kv motors are typically used on 6S to keep RPM and temps in check.
• Smart telemetry and single-connector balancing require a compatible Spektrum Smart charger. Check your specific pack’s documentation for charging requirements.

FAQs

Will 6S make my model twice as fast as 3S?

No. Top speed depends on gearing/prop load, aerodynamics, and motor Kv. 6S provides voltage headroom so you can gear/prop appropriately while controlling temps.

Can I use adapters to fit IC5 to my ESC?

Adapters work, but they add resistance and another failure point. When possible, match the ESC connector to the pack (IC5/EC5) for best performance.

What C rating do I need?

Estimate your maximum current and use C ≥ (max amps ÷ capacity in Ah). Add a safety margin (e.g., 20–30%).

How low can I discharge a 6S LiPo?

Avoid resting voltages below ~3.5 V per cell. Under load, set the ESC cutoff around 3.4–3.6 V per cell to protect the pack.

Do Smart features work with non-Spektrum chargers?

The pack operates as a standard LiPo, but Smart data and single-wire balancing require a compatible Spektrum Smart charger. Refer to your pack’s manual for any needed adapters.

Bottom Line

Spektrum 6S LiPos deliver stable high-voltage power with IC5 connectivity and Smart data support. Pick capacity and C rating to match your load, verify 6S compatibility across your system, and follow safe charging and handling to maximize performance and pack life.