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TIRSLK-EVM: battery charger

Part Number: TIRSLK-EVM

Hello there, 

the TI RSLK EVM KIT when in autonomous or full functionality mode needs 6 AAA 1.2 rechargeable NiMH  batteries. The kit neither recharges the batteries when on USB power, nor provide a charger, though.

While a pack of charged batteries last for around 3.5 hours, so more than enough for a fun session, I was looking for instruction to set up a charging dock for the robot while powered off, without the need to take the battery out.

Has anyone attempted this already? 

I have seen some uni project on the internet to do a solar powered recharging dock, but I would be satisfied with something just powered from a 5V wall transformer or a USB powered port.

best regards 

  • Hi Guido,

    Thank you for your question! Yes the TI-RSLK MAX user has option for 6x AA batteries (either standard, non-rechargeable alkaline or rechargable NiMH) to power the system. The TI-RSLK MAX does not have a battery charging circuit on board, so you will need to create a custom solution if that is your intent. It is possible to access the battery terminals on the Chassis Board with the VBAT and GND signals and then building some kind of external charging circuit that could use a USB or wall wart input source as you suggested. However, the easiest and recommended solution is to remove the NiMH batteries from the TI-RSLK MAX and use an off the shelf charger. 

  • I spot around a couple projects based on MCP1630\DS2715\MAX712 looking simple enough to go on the breadboard... I was wondering if TI has got any EVM for a 6 cell NiMH charger...

  • Hello Guido,

    Yes TI does have several devices that could be used with NiMH charging. The BQ24401 is a candidate. I was trying to locate a reference design for you to look at but this is the one I could find handy. http://www.ti.com/tool/TIDA-00026 I recommend you look through the technical documents to see if it can meet your spec. 

    Thanks!

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