iMAX B6AC Balance Charger and Discharger – AC/DC Dual Power, 50W, 5A

The IMAXB6AC is a microprocessor-controlled battery charger, discharger, and balancer designed for hobbyist, DIY, and robotics applications. It supports the most common battery chemistries in RC and portable electronics: lithium polymer (LiPo), lithium-ion (Li-ion), lithium iron phosphate (LiFe), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-cadmium (NiCd), and lead-acid (Pb). The charger can handle 1–6 lithium cells in series, 1–15 NiMH/NiCd cells, and Pb batteries from 2V to 20V.

A key convenience is its dual power input: an integrated AC adapter accepts 100–240V mains (50/60Hz), so the charger can be plugged into a wall outlet anywhere, while a DC input of 11–18V allows field operation from a car battery or bench supply. The maximum charge power is 50W with a charge current range of 0.1–5.0A, and the discharge current range is 0.1–1.0A (5W max). An independent lithium battery balancer equalizes 2–6 cells during charge and discharge, helping to prevent individual cell drift and extend pack life.

The front panel features a 2×1 character LCD that provides access to charging modes, battery parameters, and real-time data. Users can select from balance charge, normal charge, fast charge, storage mode, discharge, and cycle modes. Additional features include delta-peak sensitivity for automatic charge termination on NiMH/NiCd packs, an input power monitor that protects a car battery from deep discharge during field charging, a time limit function, and data storage for up to five battery packs. A USB port enables PC connectivity for monitoring and control.

The iMAX B6AC balance charger ships with a set of input and battery connection cables, including alligator clips and T-plug adapters, but a temperature probe is not included. Because the B6AC is available in both V1 and V2 revisions with different current and power ratings, users should confirm the exact version they are purchasing. The V1 (matching this listing) is rated for 50W/5A, while the V2 adds features such as 6A charging, a micro USB port, and an internal resistance meter.