Battery charging?
 

We are using the default batteries and the Schumacher speed charger.

Should we plug in batteries after each use, or let them fully discharge? Does it make a difference in battery life?

Re: Battery charging?
 

When we use a battery, we normally use a full charge then just continuously run from there. We change it out when we notice a difference in operation, like if a shooter doesnt work as effectively or if we drive slower than usual. As far as I know it really doesnt make a difference in the life of the battery.

Re: Battery charging?
 

The battery's life expectancy is expressed in the number of charge/discharge cycles and the number of cycles is directly related to the average depth of discharge. The deeper the discharge lower the expected number of cycles that the battery will last. Also a battery that is stored in a less than fully charged state will tend to develop sulfate deposits at a higher rate than one that is stored fully charged.

So at competitions put your batteries on the charger as soon after each match as possible. When practicing try to avoid letting the battery discharge to the point that you notice a drop in robot performance. When you are practicing have the driver's note the voltage on the driver's station display. Once the battery voltage shows as 11.0 v or lower when the robot is idle it is time to change the battery. Doing both of those things regularly will maximize the useful life of the battery.

Re: Battery charging?
 

Attachment is from the MK datasheet

Re: Battery charging?
 

You should change the battery between every match in competition. This will prevent efficiency and accuracy loss due to low voltage.

Re: Battery charging?
 

Do NOT EVER* allow the batteries to fully discharge. This will really shorten their life significantly.

These batteries - indeed, any lead-acid battery - will last longest when the number of minutes that it is not fully charged is kept to a minimum. So charge it as often as you can, any time you can.

When leaving the batteries alone, like over summer vacation, remember they discharge 15-25% per month, so charge them as often as possible so they are not damaged.

*Never, never ever!

Re: Battery charging?
 

What Don and Ether said. The need to discharge batteries to zero volts was for old style NiCad battery chemistry and is no longer needed or recommended for any battery type.

Re: Battery charging?
 

Including modern NiCd chemistry...