Venom Batteries 7.4 V (2S)

Overview

Venom 7.4 V (2S) LiPo batteries are a practical everyday choice for 1/10-scale RC cars, crawlers, and small to medium boats. They balance speed, runtime, weight, and heat, and the universal plug system uses swappable tips to match many ESC connectors without rewiring.

When to Choose 2S

• Use if you want stable throttle feel, manageable motor/ESC temps, and reduced drivetrain wear.
• Great for: 1/10 club racing, backyard bashing, rock crawling, and scale boats.
• Avoid if your model or goals require higher voltage (3S–4S) for top speed, or if your ESC is not LiPo-capable.

Selecting the Right Pack

Capacity (mAh)

• Crawlers/trail rigs: 3000–5000 mAh for low weight and balance.
• 1/10 2WD track: 4000–5000 mAh for consistent laps.
• 1/10 4WD bashers: 5000–6000 mAh for longer sessions.
• Small–medium boats: 5000–6000 mAh for extended runs.

Trade-off: higher mAh increases runtime but adds weight and may raise temps.

C Rating (Discharge)

Target a continuous C rating that comfortably exceeds your system’s current draw.

• Quick math: required C ≈ peak current (A) / capacity (Ah). Example: 60 A peak on a 5000 mAh (5 Ah) pack → 12C minimum; choose margin (e.g., 25C+).
• Crawlers typically draw less; racers and bashers benefit from higher C for punch.

Case Type & Fit

• Hard case: better impact protection for bashing/racing.
• Soft case: lighter, for weight-sensitive setups where impacts are minimal.
• Check dimensions against your battery tray. Common forms include “stick” (~135×47×25 mm) and “shorty” (~96×47×25 mm).

Connectors

Use the universal plug’s appropriate tip to match your ESC connector. Keep leads short, ensure polarity matches, and avoid stacking multiple adapters to minimize resistance.

Runtime and Performance

• Estimate: runtime (minutes) ≈ 60 × capacity (Ah) × 0.8 ÷ average current (A). The 0.8 factor avoids deep discharge.
• Examples: 5000 mAh with 15 A average ≈ 16 minutes; with 25 A ≈ 9–10 minutes. A 4000 mAh crawler at 8 A ≈ 24 minutes; a 5000 mAh boat at 30 A ≈ 8 minutes.
• Monitor battery and motor temps; keep packs under ~140°F (60°C). If hot, reduce gearing or take breaks.

Setup & Compatibility

• Verify your ESC supports LiPo and 2S voltage.
• Set low-voltage cutoff to ~3.2–3.4 V per cell (6.4–6.8 V for 2S).
• Balance-charge every cycle via the balance lead.
• Match wire gauge to current (12–14 AWG is common for 1/10). Keep connectors clean and secure.

Charging & Care

• Charge rate: 1C unless the pack is labeled for higher. Example: 5000 mAh at 5 A takes ~1.0–1.2 hours.
• Storage: 3.75–3.85 V per cell in a cool, dry place.
• Let packs cool to ambient before recharging; avoid back-to-back hot charges.
• Inspect for swelling, damage, or uneven cell voltages; retire compromised packs.

Safety Notes

• Charge on a nonflammable surface and ideally in a LiPo-safe bag or metal container.
• Never leave charging batteries unattended.
• Do not discharge below ~3.2 V per cell during use, and avoid cell imbalance >0.05 V.

Alternatives

• 3S (11.1 V): more speed and punch; increases heat and drivetrain stress. Confirm ESC/motor ratings.
• NiMH: simpler handling and charging; heavier with less punch and shorter runtime.
• Li-ion: higher energy density for long trail runs; lower burst current than LiPo.

FAQ

Can one 2S pack power multiple vehicles?

Yes, if the connector matches and the pack fits the tray. The universal plug’s adapter tips help; always verify polarity and secure the connection.

Can I run two 2S packs in series for 4S?

Only if your ESC and motor are rated for 4S. Use identical packs (capacity, age, charge level) and a proper series harness, and monitor temperatures.

What charger do I need?

A balance charger with a dedicated LiPo mode that supports 2S. Always use the balance lead.

What low-voltage cutoff should I use?

Start at 3.2–3.4 V per cell (6.4–6.8 V for 2S) and adjust based on performance and pack health.

How does cold weather affect performance?

Cold reduces voltage and punch. Warm the pack to room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C) before use for consistent performance.