This is a pack of two ProTek R/C 1S "Sport Race" LiFe 15C Stick Battery Packs. These are designed specifically for the Kyosho Mini-Z vehicles, and are a great performance upgrade for Mini-Z racing! Lithium battery technology is evolving. With cell dimensions that fit anywhere a standard Li-Poly battery will and rapidly increasing capacity, LiFe chemistry will soon set the standard that all others are judged by. With the ability to deliver 1000+ usable cycles, and a life span up to 4 times longer than Li-Poly batteries (when cycled under the same discharge conditions), these batteries offer the user an excellent balance of performance and value. LiFe batteries are more durable than Li-Poly and are able to handle a higher level of abuse when compared to Li-Poly without the risk of pre-mature failure. Unlike LiPo, LiFePO4 cells can be stored in a fully charged state with little to no loss in stored power, and can be discharged deeper with less risk of damage to the cells. Most importantly, LiFe batteries are SAFE! There is no risk of combustion! LiFe cells will not catch fire or explode when over charged, or after a deep discharge.
NOTE: The use of unique charging and discharging harnesses are required to use these batteries with Mini-Z vehicles.
What about the voltage?
A 1 Cell LiFe battery produces 3.3 volts nominal, which is almost a half volt less than a 1 Cell Li-Poly battery. The LiFe battery is not meant to replace the performance of a Li-Poly battery, it is simply another option. LiFe offers the user a battery with a good discharge curve that is better than that of a NiMH battery, but without the risk of damage or fire that exists when a Li-Poly battery is abused.
When used as a power source for a electric motor, there will be a loss in peak RPM, but that can be resolved with a simple swap of the pinion gear to achieve similar speed or use a motor with a higher kV. Many drivers find that the reduced voltage allows them to run faster lap times with more control, especially on low traction surfaces.
NOTE: Brand new LiFePO4 batteries have been found to fail prematurely if they are deep discharged below 33% capacity too early. A break-in period of 20 cycles is currently recommended. While testing has shown that this battery can be charged at up to 5C rates, it recommended that this battery not be charged at rates higher than 1C to maximize the lifespan of the battery. Additionally, LiFe batteries should not be discharged below 2.5V per cell to avoid pre-mature failure and maximize battery life span.
We also recommend you REMOVE the batteries from your cars, or at least unplug them to avoid accidental over discharge if the unit is left on.
IMPORTANT:
1) You will need a LiFe specific charger to charge the pack (NiMH, NiCD or Li-Poly only chargers WILL NOT WORK!)
2) You must not discharge the LiFe battery pack below 33% capacity during the break in period or below 2.5V per cell after break in.
3) You must not charge this LiFe battery pack at amp rates higher than 1C.
4) Read the instructions carefully before operating this battery.
Features:
- Safe chemistry will not explode or catch fire
- More mAh per gram compared to NiMH cells, meaning lighter models, and longer runtime
- Virtually no "self discharge", so the battery is always ready to go even weeks after charging.
- Superior voltage performance under load compared to NiMH cells, with consistent torque and speed.
- Fast charge time
Specifications:
- Voltage: 3.3V
- Capacity: 500mah
- Chemistry: LiFePO4
- Charge Rate: 1C
- Discharge rate: 15C
- Discharge Plug: Mini-Z connector
- Dimension (LxWxH): 47x18.5x9.7mm
- Weight: 14g each
ProTek R/C is an AMain Sports & Hobbies brand.
This product was added to our catalog on June 22, 2010
You have to trim the tabs off of the backside of the battery braces but no modification is needed to the chassis!
They are a tight fit but we have been running them for a few weeks now and love them!
There are no plugs for batteries in the MiniZ...
So yea, I guess these are OK batteries, but who knows? I can't use it.