MULTIPURPOSE BATTERY CHARGER

摘要

A multi-purpose battery charger is disclosed, capable of simultaneously charging multiple batteries to a common peak voltage and operable from either an A.C. source of power or a D.C. source of power. The power supply portion of the battery charger includes means for causing the D.C. power source to be used as the primary source for charging if the power supply is connected to both an A.C. and a D.C. power source simultaneously. Means are also included for preventing interaction between the sources of power or damage to the charger if such simultaneous connection is made. The battery charger includes voltage regulator means for maintaining a maximum charging rate to all batteries connected to the charger at one time for as long as any one battery is in a discharged state and for reducing the charging current to all the batteries to a low maintenance charging rate when all the batteries are charged. Individual batteries being charged are protected against both overcharging and interaction between batteries.