Method and apparatus for detecting the presence of rechargeable batteries

摘要

A method and apparatus are disclosed for automatically detecting the presence of a secondary cell and additionally differentiating between various types of secondary cells within the charger. Certain secondary cells include a band of ink that surrounds the cells and has a predetermined resistance that is detectable via charger contacts to identify the charging capability. The cell is detected using a pair of contacts that engage the outer surface of the cell at a predetermined location. The charger applies a charge to the cell that varies based on the sensed cell type.