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How to Test an RC NiCad

Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) batteries are a popular source of energy for electric, hobby-grade, radio-controlled (RC) vehicles. These compact rechargeables offer long run times and pack a lot of energy in a relatively small package. By learning how to test your NiCad battery pack, you can ensure that you are driving with optimum performance.

Things You'll Need

NiCad
Battery charger
Multimeter

Instructions

- 1
  Plug in your battery charger, and connect the NiCad to it. Let the battery charge completely.
- 2
  Disconnect the battery when the charger indicates it has completed charging, or if the correct amount of charging time has passed.
- 3
  Look for the voltage amount printed on the battery pack. The voltage is indicated with a numerical value followed by the letter V; for example, 12V.
- 4
  Turn your multimeter to DC by turning the settings switch.
- 5
  Touch the negative (black) lead of the multimeter to the negative terminal of the battery, and connect the positive (red) lead of the multimeter to the positive terminal on the battery.
- 6
  Look at the display readout to determine the current voltage of your battery.
- 7
  Compare the readout value to the voltage printed on the battery pack. If the multimeter's readout is less than the voltage printed on the battery, it should be replaced.

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