C-Rate
Expressing the charge or discharge current relative to the battery's capacity. 1 C means the current that fills or empties the capacity in one hour. In lithium-polymer cells standard charging is typically taken as 0.5 C and fast charging as 1.0 C, and fast charging shortens cycle life.
The C-rate defines current relatively instead of in absolute amperes; this way the same rule holds for cells of different capacities. In a 1000 mAh cell 0.5 C corresponds to a 500 mA charge current and filling takes roughly two hours.
- Why a low C is preferred: high current produces more heat inside the cell; heat is the strongest accelerator of chemical ageing. The same cell typically delivers more cycles when charged at 0.5 C.
- The discharge side: consumption in radio remote controls is low, the discharge C-rate is generally not a problem; the determining factor is the charge side.
- Practical rule: instead of a rushed charge between shifts, plan an overnight charge at low current at the end of the shift. This improves both life and the reliability of being ready in the morning.
ST100/ST200 remote controls are charged through the AXI-Link connector; since capacity and charge current are not stated in the product data, use only the unit supplied with the product as the charger.
The context in which this term is used: Wireless Crane Remote Control Selection Guide