FUTABA: BR-2000 Battery Checker

Model Airplane News, Mar 2004 by Yarrish, Gerry

Convenient and easy to use

Use the BR-2000 battery checker in your workshop and at the flying field to check or discharge 4-, 5-, or 6-cell Ni-Cd and NiMH battery packs. It features a large, easy-to-read LCD that has numeric and graphic (a gas tank) displays to show voltage. Housed in a sturdy plastic case that has retractable legs, the easy-to-use unit has a "start" button on the front panel. On one side are the discharge-current adjustment dial (1 to 3 amps), the battery-voltage selector (4.8, 6, or 7.2) and the battery connection port. An adjustment screwdriver and a battery connection lead with Futaba connectors are part of the package.

To use the checker, simply select the proper voltage, connect the pack, and press the start button. The voltage will be displayed (red background) for about 20 seconds. To switch to the discharge function, hold the start button down for 3 seconds. The unit's internal cooling fan will start, and the indicator will display the discharge voltage (blue background). To halt the discharge cycle, press the start button again. The unit will automatically stop discharging when the voltage drops to 0.9 volt per cell.

Priced at $39.99, the BR-2000 is very convenient to use, and its display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight. It makes a great addition to any workbench or field box. -Gerry Yarrish

Futaba Corp. of America; distributed by Great Planes Model Distributors (217) 398-6300; (800) 682-8948; futaba-rc.com.