About Internal Batteries

Most HydroScats contain rechargeable Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) cells. HydroScat-6 batteries typically need a maximum of 4 hours for full charge. HydroScat-2 and HydroScat-4 may need 12 to 15 hours to fully charge.

Care and Maintenance

• Charge only with the originally-supplied charger, or a Hobi-approved replacement.
• Don't charge too much.
  • For the HydroScat-6, aim to charge less than 20% of the time you operate the instrument from batteries.
  • For HydroScat-2, charging time should average about 20% of operating time.
  • HydroScat-4 may require charging time about the same as its operating time.
• Do not leave the charger connected for more than 24 hours.
• When storing the instrument, use the red-handled dummy plug that disconnects the battery internally, and fully charge it once every 3 to 6 months.

Battery life

When maintained properly, batteries usually last at least 4 years. Often they last much longer, but the chance of a random failure grows. If the internal batteries are critical to your work, we recommend replacement every 4 years, and sooner if the battery has been mistreated or shows a substantial drop in capacity.

Battery Pack Replacement

Do not attempt to replace a battery pack yourself. Unauthorized battery packs are likely not compatible with HOBI charging circuitry, will fail rapidly, and could damage the instrument or create a safety hazard. Contact us to return your instrument for service.