Ike Smart charger vs normal charger

Hi,

My DS 125 package has been delivered with the normal 5h charger.

On their site, Ikelite recommands the Smart Charger.

OK, it's quicker, you don't have to switch manually between 110V/220V and you've got some lights indicating the charging steps.

Apart from that, is it really necessary going for the Smart Charger to replace the normal one. Is there any risk using the normal charger?

Thanks.

The main advantages of the smart charger are:

1: Much faster charge time.

2: you can leave it plugged in for long periods, ie forget like me, and it wont damage the battery from overcharging.

3: It has a voltage regulator, which is very nice on liveaboards and in places where the current may not be totally stable.

I am not totally sure that the standard charger doesn't offer some of these, but if you are planning multiple dives, get the smart charger, it is worth it, IMO

The smart charger also conditions the Ni-Cads so you don't have to discharge them all the way before recharging. Remember that - what a pain!?

Cheers

James

Buy one. The difference in charge times is incredible. Many dive destinations have iffy voltage. Leave it charging while you are out to dinner. Do a second strobe before you dose off.

Great product.

You can use both. I always bring the normal as a backup. But once you get the smart charger you will never use the normal again.

Get the smart charger - you won't regret it. I was doing 4-6 dives a day and it would take about 10-15mins to top up after 2 dives - this is after over a hundred pops and generous use of the aiming light.

And it does all the wonderful things mentioned above.

Take the slow charger as a spare.