Batteries Reviews

The C401 has a number of features that I really liked that were not found on most other models available at the time. First, this four-channel charging system: Each battery gets its own charging circuit, including a status indicator. This enables each battery to receive exactly the charge it needs. This is far superior to the cheaper chargers that try to do the job with only one or two channels, which can lead to unbalanced charging (one battery is being overcharged while the other is still undercharged). It also means that I can charge even one battery at a time. Once the battery if fully charged, the channel goes to a trickle charge mode to keep the battery at peak performance.

This model also has a switchblade option of fast or slow charging. I have several sets of batteries that I rotate through, so I rarely need to charge them in a hurry. I use the slow charge rate almost exclusively (usually overnight), which makes the batteries only lukewarm. I cannot help but believe that this will give them a more thorough charge and extend the life of the batteries significantly!

This model will charge four AA or AAA batteries without the need for a battery size adapter, and you can even mix the sizes when charging. It will not charge C, D, or 9-Volt batteries*. I have found that some of the new "15-minute charge" batteries can confuse the charger initially, but after a couple of charging cycles, it no longer seems to be a problem. Note: Not all electronic systems work well with the 1.2 Volt output of the NiMH batteries (as we discovered with one of our 35mm cameras), but most things do just fine.

I purchased the CT1201000S US Lightweight Switching Adapter that automatically adapts between 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz. It is lighter than the standard wall wart, and all you need is a plug adapter for the foreign country you plan to visit! MHS-DC-124 12-Volt Car adapter also comes in handy for travel.

I have now used the charger on a daily basis since March 2003, and have no complaints so far. Overall, I have found it to be pretty goof-proof and worry-free. Even so, it is nice to know that it does come with a lifetime warranty in case a problem does arise.

I do recommend this Maha charger over any other charger that I have seen to date!

*Note: Maha Energy Corp. just introduced a new POWEREX 9.6 Volt NiMH rechargeable battery with a @170mAh (milliamp hours) capacity. Thier claim is that this battery "Will actually out perform a standard 200 mAh 9 volt battery due to the higher voltage". Of course they do recommend the use of their 10 Channel Commercial 9v Fast/Smart Charger (MH-C1090F) to charge them to their full voltage.