[voyager_663rd]

I know 4 cell are 4.8 and 5 are 6v (as each cell is 1.2) but how do you tell what the amps are? I got a mixed bag of batteries (some are 600, some are 800, one is 1600, etc) and although I know the v, I have no idea how to tell the capacity.

The hobbico tester only gives you is the voltage (plus the broad "green ok to fly/red stay on the ground" indication).

[Graham]

I am in the same predicament with some of my small cells. I just used my cycler to completely discharge to 1 volt and recharge... close as I could get to capacity.

[voyager_663rd]

but that's what I want to know is capacity. Since they are all covered in shrink wrap, all I know is the v of each (can't read what's on the side of the cell). My charger can only handle up to 1400 ma but you still need to know what the amps of each pack are so you can charge at the 1/10 rate for however long they need (based on the capacity. Can't recycle them to find out what it is (well, I guess you can but it's not convenent).

[Graham]

After you completely discharge,why can't you charge at 500 mah on a peak detection charger, then you should have a good idea of capacity of the pack if your charger exhibits mah's needed to charge.

[scaleguy]

Cut the shrink wrap off. You can always put new on.

[FaceDeAce]

Peak charge it on a field charge at a low rate like 400 mAh. Let it sit for 1/2 a day. Peak charge it again. If it peaks quickly on the second charge then you know it is fully charged. Otherwise a third peak my be needed. I am only suggesting multiple peak charges because I know some chargers safety feature is to either time-out or to end after xxxx mAh delivered to the pack.

Once you believe the pack is properly peaked then go put the battery on your cycler and discharge it. Tada! you know what you've got.

Clearly label the pack. Repeat for the next pack.

[scaleguy]

The Hobbico Accu-Cycle alows you to cycle individual cells. It should show you capacity during discharge. You may have to do the cycle 2 or 3 times to get accurate reading.