Lithium Polymers as Receiver Batteries

Most people are aware of the great advantages of Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries when used to power electric motors. But did you know that the advantages of these batteries are not limited to electric powered models? They can also be used to replace your traditional Nickel Cadmium (NiCad/NiCd) and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMh) receiver batteries in your other models. The lighter weight and higher discharge rate of Lithium Polymer batteries makes them an appealing alternative to NiCad and NiMh batteries.

Unlike the old technologies, Lithium Polymer batteries come in 3.7v, 7.4v, 11.1v, 14.8v and higher voltages. Most of the servos, receivers and other gizmos we put in our models are designed to operate at 4.8v or 6.0v so a voltage regulator is needed to step the voltage down.

DualSky are making a range of voltage regulators which step down the voltage of 7.4v and higher LiPos to either 5v or 6v. They start with the most basic DualSky VR-3 Regulator which can provide 3 Amps current at either 5.0v or 6.0v. When coupled with the DualSky 7.4v 1500mAh Receiver Battery, it becomes a perfect replacement for standard receiver batteries. Such a setup is good for 4 standard servos in routine use such as a trainer or low wing sportster.

If you think your servos might draw more than 3 Amps at peak (i.e. if you're using digital servos or more than 4 standard servos) then DualSky offer the DualSky VR-5L Linear Voltage Regulator. It is capable of sustaining 6 Amps at 5.0v or 5 Amps at 6.0v. DualSky regulators can be used with any 7.4v LiPo. We have a wide range of DualSky 7.4v Lithium Polymer batteries so you can choose the battery thats not too big, not too small but fits your model just right.

Finally, if your model might demand anywhere up to 10 Amps (!) at 5.0v, the DualSky VR-8L Linear Voltage Regulator is the top of the range regulator from DualSky. At 6.0v the VR-8L can sustain 8.3 Amps. You should be able to power a good few digital servos with that!

We are presently offering a discount when you buy a VR-5L or VR-8L with any suitable DualSky 7.4v Lithium Polymer battery. So what better time than now to make the switch to LiPos?!

Please Note: Lithium Polymer batteries cannot be charged on NiCad/NiMh battery chargers. They must be charged on LiPo capable chargers only.

Most LiPo batteries are sold without connectors. Short servo extension leads are commonly used to provide a connector pre-crimped onto a suitable size of wire.

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Document Version: 1.0.1
Last revised: 27th August 2010