HOTRC B3AC LiPo Battery Charger: A Guide to 2S and 3S Batteries
, by UMW Media, 8 min reading time
Looking for a straightforward charger for your RC LiPo batteries? The HOTRC B3AC LiPo battery charger is designed for compatible 2S and 3S lithium battery packs, making it an option for RC hobbyists who need a simple balance-charging solution.
With a built-in AC power supply, a UK plug and three independent charging channels, this compact charger is designed to make routine battery charging convenient. Its LED indicators show charging progress, while the automatic cut-off feature stops charging when a battery is full.
Available from Hobby Inn, the HOTRC B3AC is worth considering if your batteries match its supported cell count and charging specifications.
What Is the HOTRC B3AC LiPo Battery Charger?
The HOTRC B3AC is an AC-powered balance charger for compatible 2S and 3S lithium battery packs. These correspond to nominal battery voltages of 7.4V and 11.1V respectively.
Unlike a multifunction charger designed for several battery chemistries, the B3AC is intended for a more specific purpose: charging supported lithium battery packs through its independent charging channels.
Its simple LED indicators help you monitor each charging channel without navigating a complex digital menu.
Key Features of the HOTRC B3AC Charger
1. Supports Compatible 2S and 3S LiPo Batteries
The charger is designed for compatible 2S and 3S lithium battery packs, commonly rated at 7.4V and 11.1V nominal voltage.
Before charging, check the battery label and specifications to confirm that its chemistry, cell count and connector are compatible. Do not use this charger for a battery simply because the plug fits.
2. Three Independent Charging Channels
One of the main features of the HOTRC B3AC is its three-way independent charging design.
Each channel operates independently, allowing the charger to charge up to three compatible batteries at the same time. For example, when one battery finishes charging, its indicator can turn green while the other channels continue charging their batteries.
This can be convenient for RC hobbyists who regularly use multiple compatible battery packs.
Important: Only connect batteries that meet the charger's specifications. Confirm the correct connection and polarity for each channel before use.
3. Built-In AC Power Supply
The HOTRC B3AC accepts an AC input of 100–240V at 50/60Hz and includes a UK plug according to the product title.
This means it is designed to connect to a suitable mains supply without requiring a separate external DC power adaptor.
Always inspect the charger and cable before use, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation.
4. Automatic Charging Cut-Off
The product description states that the charger automatically switches off charging when a battery is full.
Automatic cut-off is a useful feature, but it does not mean batteries should be left unattended. Follow the manufacturer's safety instructions throughout the charging process.
5. Easy-to-Read LED Indicators
The HOTRC B3AC uses simple LED indicators to show charging status:
- Red light: Charging is in progress.
- Green light: Charging is complete.
- Flashing red light: A fault condition is indicated.
If the red light flashes, check the battery connection and charger instructions. Disconnect the battery if necessary, and do not continue charging until the cause has been identified.
HOTRC B3AC Charger Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | HOTRC |
| Model | B3AC |
| Charger type | AC-powered lithium battery balance charger |
| AC input | 100–240V, 50/60Hz |
| Supported battery cell counts | 2S and 3S |
| Nominal battery voltages | 7.4V and 11.1V |
| Charging current | 3 × 800mA |
| Charging channels | Three independent channels |
| Charging indicator | Red LED |
| Charge-complete indicator | Green LED |
| Fault indicator | Flashing red LED |
| Power supply | Built-in AC power supply |
| Plug | UK plug, as stated in the product title |
The stated charging current is 800mA per channel. Actual charging suitability depends on the battery manufacturer's recommended charging current and the battery's condition.
How Does Three-Channel Charging Work?
The HOTRC B3AC is designed to charge up to three compatible batteries independently.
For example, if you connect three supported batteries:
- Each connected battery charges through its own channel.
- The corresponding LED remains red while that battery is charging.
- When one battery finishes, its LED changes to green.
- The remaining batteries can continue charging until their own charging cycles finish.
This setup can help reduce the time spent managing several compatible batteries individually. However, it is not a substitute for checking each battery's condition and following the correct charging procedure.
Do not connect batteries with different specifications unless the charger manufacturer explicitly confirms that the combination is supported.
Is the HOTRC B3AC Suitable for Your RC Battery?
The HOTRC B3AC may be a good option if you use compatible 2S or 3S LiPo batteries and want a simple charger with three independent channels.
It may suit you if you:
- Use compatible 7.4V or 11.1V nominal lithium battery packs.
- Want to charge up to three supported batteries independently.
- Prefer a charger with simple LED status indicators.
- Need an AC-powered charger with a UK plug.
- Want a straightforward alternative to a more advanced programmable charger.
However, this model is not a universal battery charger. If you need to charge NiMH, NiCd, LiFe, LiHV or other battery types, check the charger's supported chemistry before purchasing. Consider a compatible multifunction charger if your setup requires several battery chemistries or adjustable charging settings.
HOTRC B3AC vs iMax RC Battery Chargers
Hobby Inn also lists iMax battery chargers, including the iMax B6 bundle and SKYRC iMax B6AC V2. These models offer different features, so the best option depends on your batteries and charging needs.
| Feature | HOTRC B3AC | iMax multifunction chargers |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Compatible 2S and 3S lithium batteries | Multiple supported battery chemistries, depending on model |
| Charging channels | Three independent channels | Depends on model |
| Charging controls | Simple LED indicators | More detailed settings and display, depending on model |
| AC power | Built-in AC input | Depends on model; check whether an external supply is required |
| Best suited to | Straightforward charging of supported batteries | Hobbyists needing more charging options |
Choose the HOTRC B3AC if its battery compatibility and three-channel design meet your needs. Compare the specifications carefully if you require balance charging for other chemistries, more control over charging settings or support for a wider range of cell counts.
Safe Charging Tips for LiPo Batteries
Correct handling is essential when charging lithium batteries. Follow these precautions every time you charge:
- Check the battery for swelling, damage or worn wires.
- Confirm that the battery is compatible with the charger.
- Use the recommended charging current for the battery.
- Place the battery on a suitable non-combustible surface in a well-ventilated area.
- Never leave charging batteries unattended.
- Stop charging if a battery becomes unusually hot, swollen or damaged.
- Keep batteries away from flammable materials.
- Follow the manufacturer's storage and disposal instructions.
A charger with automatic cut-off is useful, but it does not eliminate the risks associated with lithium batteries. Never charge a damaged battery.
Buy the HOTRC B3AC LiPo Battery Charger from Hobby Inn
Hobby Inn offers the HOTRC B3AC balance charger for compatible 2S and 3S lithium battery packs. Its three independent charging channels, built-in AC power supply and LED indicators make it an option for hobbyists who want a simple charging solution.
The listed price is £10.99 including VAT. The supplied product listing shows four units in stock, but stock and pricing can change. Check the product page for the latest availability before ordering.
Before purchasing, make sure your battery is compatible with the charger and that its charging requirements match the stated specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What batteries can the HOTRC B3AC charger charge?
The product description specifies compatible 2S and 3S lithium battery packs with nominal voltages of 7.4V and 11.1V. Confirm your battery's chemistry and specifications before use.
2. Can the HOTRC B3AC charge three batteries at once?
Yes. It has three independent charging channels for compatible batteries. Each channel has its own charging-status indicator.
3. What does the red light mean on the HOTRC B3AC?
A steady red light indicates that charging is in progress. Green indicates charging is complete, while a flashing red light indicates a fault condition.
4. Does the HOTRC B3AC come with a UK plug?
Yes. The product title specifies a UK plug, and the charger supports a 100–240V AC input at 50/60Hz.
5. Is the HOTRC B3AC suitable for all RC batteries?
No. It is specified for compatible 2S and 3S lithium battery packs. Check the battery type, cell count, connector and charging requirements before connecting a battery.
