swampjeep said:
one thing I'd like some clarity on is what is the xC (like .5C - 4C) that's being talked about so much, and what is the meaning of the things like 14S8P, I'm guessing the configuration of the batteries,
"C" is
Capacity
The "C rate" is the "rate of discharge".
Amps drain / C-Amphours battery capacity
6(Amp drain) /30(Ah battery capacity) = .2C
60(Amp drain) /30(Ah battery capacity) = 2C
The simplest representation is that if you discharge at:
30 amps from a 30Ah battery = 1C or C (discharge rate) - 1 hour discharge time
15 amps from a 30Ah battery = .5C (C/2 alternate method) - 2 hour discharge time
6 amps from a 30Ah battery = .2C (C/5 alternate method) - 5 hour discharge time
oem "rated capacity" is, typically, obtainable only at the slowest discharge rates.
(SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) batteries are typically rated at .05C! (20 hour discharge time))
At higher discharge rates, the cell voltage "lags",or "sags" noticeably, AND usable capacity is reduced!
Accurate cell voltage is only measurable after removing drain.
"S" & "P"
3S2P = 3
Series 2
Parallel
With 3 x 3.7V - 2 x 2600mah cells this would be a 11.1V - 5200mah "pack"
Note: Laptop batteries are designed and built to be discharged at 2-5 hours!(.5C - .2C)
Not recommended for discharge rates above 1C, they will "sag" deeply under heavy drain.