Icom IC-M1Euro handheld VHF battery

[superheat6k]

I have an Icom handheld, but it has been left off charge for a long period.

If I plug it in it works fine, but how can I tell if the battery is goosed ? It is battery type BP185.

Not sure if this is Nicad or Lithium Ion.

 

[earlybird]

A quick google on a US web site suggests that the BP185 is long out of production. Replaced possibly by BP186 which is NiMH.
Might be better to spend on a new radio.
Try Icom UK, who are very helpful on the 'phone in my experience.

 

[cliff]

I have had this problem with other electrical equipment when the battery is absolutely flat ie 0v. The charger cannot detect a battery so does not move into charge mode. Solution was to flash the battery with a "stupid" 6v or 12v charger to put something into it then charge on the "smart" charger. Sometime one needs to flash the battery a few times to get enough into it to trigger the "smart" charger. If that does not work I would figure the battery is shagged.

 

[cliff]

http://www.amazon.com/CLAMSHELL-HOLDER-RADIOS-REPLACES-BATTERY/dp/B00AN7BRV6
http://www.batteriesexpert.com/en/w-icm1ac-tc-radio-batt-icom-bp185-bp186-alkaline
http://www.donegal-holdings.com/ic-m1_specifications.htm
http://www.donegal-holdings.com/contact_us.htm

 

[superheat6k]

Had it on charge for about six hours today, and so far it has stayed on for about 3 hours on standby. The book says 13 hours standby, so if i get half that i will be quite pleased. Normally only needed to call up the Marina, as i find them easier and more convenient than the fixed set.

I will see if Icom offer a newer version.

 

[cliff]

Had it on charge for about six hours today, and so far it has stayed on for about 3 hours on standby. The book says 13 hours standby, so if i get half that i will be quite pleased. Normally only needed to call up the Marina, as i find them easier and more convenient than the fixed set.

I will see if Icom offer a newer version.

Check the links in my post above - replacements for the 185 are available - one is sold as an open-able housing (clamshell) to insert AA type batteries yourself - even if ICOM UK are no help, all is not lost

 

[William_H]

NiCad or NiMh batteries are not harmed by complete discharge at low discharge rates or being left so for long periods. However they do seem to have mortality fromk overcharge and just old age as in too many cycles. So good luck with the old battery. olewill