Topic: iPilot Link Remote - Battery Charger Requirements

[Bubba Canuck]

Does anyone know the maximum charging amps allowed for the battery in the iPilot Link remote (the big remote)? I need to buy a solar charger/battery pack so I can use it to recharge the iPilot link remote battery when I'm in areas without electricity for multiple days. Most batteries have a maximum input current so you don't damage them.

FYI, the A/C charger that came with the iPilot Link remote is a 5V, 1A charger (the battery inside the remote has a 1.2 AH capacity). You can also plug the charging cable into a USB port on your computer to charge, instead of using the AC. Most USB outlets today provide 1A charging current, but there are some that provide 1.5A.

The problem is most solar chargers/battery packs are optimized for iphones and ipads, and provide charge output at roughly 2A. This would charge the iPilot remote in about 1/2 hour. But, is it OK for this battery?

[bobcoy]

I think you will be fine with 2amps but I would call Minn Kota to get an answer from the issuer of the warranty. Bob

[Bubba Canuck]

Spoke with Minnkota technical support today, and they claim the USB charging cord that came with the iPilot Link remote will restrict the charging current going into the iPilot Link remote battery to a suitable level. So, yes a 2A charger is OK. They spoke to the "back room" a couple of times and they assure me the cable will control the allowable current.

Assuming this is correct, then it's probably restricted to about 1A, which matches the AC charger they included with the remote. So just over an hour to charge your iPilot Link remote from zero to full charge using either AC or USB.

[bobcoy]

It is good to check. Sometime common sense will trip you up,but not often. Have a great trip

[Bubba Canuck]

I received some more info. from one of the Humminbird reps. that makes me think the input charging current gets throttled down to about 0.4 A. So charging the iPilot Link remote from zero to full charge on either AC or USB will take about 3 hours. This is more in line with what I have experienced with the AC charger.