Ripmax Sigma EQ Evo Operating Manual

CONTENTS

FO RE WO RD........................................................................................................................................................3

Specif ic ations....................................................................................................................................................3

Sp ec ia l features ...........................................................................................................................................4-5

Charger layout...................................................................................................................................................6

Lithium polymer balance charg e pro gram and connection diagram.................................................7

Warnings........................................................................................................................................................8 -11

Program f low chart.....................................................................................................................................

Safe timer calc ulati on....................................................................................................................................15

Lithium (LiIo/li Po/LiFe/L iHV program...........................................................................................................15

Cha rgi ng of lithium batte ries........................................................................................................................16

Charging lithium batteries in the balance m ode....................................................................................16

Individual ce ll connection diagram (pin-assignment of 7-pin)............................................................17

Fast chargin g of a lithium batte ries............................................................................................................17

Voltage b alancing and monitoring..............................................................................................................18

Charging of N iCd /NiMH bat teries..........................................................................................................

Data save program........................................................................................................................................20

Various i nformation in the program............................................................................................................21

Warning a nd error info rmation displays...................................................................................................22

Warranty and serv ice.....................................................................................................................................23

2

12-14

18-19

FOREWORD

Thank you purchasing the Sigma EQ Evo balance charger. This product is a rapid charger with
a high performance microprocessor and specialised operating software. Please read this entire
operating manual completely and carefully before using this product. It covers a wide range of
information on operating and safety. Please use this product in the company of a specialist if you
are unsure of any aspect of its use.

Specifications

Operating voltage range:

Circuit power:

Charge current range:
Current drain for balancing Li-po:
NiCd/NiMH battery cell count:
Li-ion/Li-Fe/Li-Po cell count:
Pb battery voltage:
Weight:
Dimensions:

DC 11.0~18.0 Volt
AC 100~240 Volt

Max.charge power 50W [DC Input]
50W [AC Input]

0.1~5.0A
460mA/cell
1~16 cell
1~6 series
2V~20V
590g (Net Weight)
180x145x57mm

3

SPECIAL FEATURES

Optimised operating software

Sigma EQ Evo features an AUTO function that sets the feeding current during the process of charging. For Lithium
batteries, it can help prevent overcharging, which may lead to an explosion due to user error. It can disconnect
the circuit automatically and alarm when detecting any malfunction. All the programs in this product are controlled
through two way links and communication, to achieve maximum safety and minimize problems. Many settings can be
configured by the user.

Internal independent lithium battery balancer

The Sigma EQ Evo employs an individual-cell-voltage balancer. It isn’t necessary to connect an external balancer for
balance charging.

Adaptable to various type of lithium battery

Sigma EQ Evo is adaptable to various types of Lithium battery, such as Li-ion, Li-Po, Li-HV and the new Li-Fe series
of batteries.

Fast charge mode for lithium bat teries

Needs to charge Lithium batteries can vary. The “fast“ charging function reduces the duration of charging, but can
reduce battery life.

Maximum safety

Delta-peak sensitivity (NiCd & NiMH): The automatic charge termination program based on the principle of Delta-peak
voltage detection. When the battery’s voltage exceeds the limit, the process will be terminated automatically.

4

Automatic charging current limit

ou can set the upper limit for the charging current when charging your NiCd or NiMH battery; It is useful for NiMH

Y

batteries of low impedance and capacity in the “AUTO” charging mode.

Capacity limit

The charging capacity is always calculated as the charging current multiplied by time. If the charging capacity
exceeds the limit, the process will be terminated automatically. You can set the maximum value.

Temperature threshold*

The battery’s internal chemical reaction can cause the temperature of the battery to rise. If the temperature limit is
reached, the process will be terminated. *This function is available by connecting an optional temperature probe,
which is not included as standard.

Processing time limit:

You can limit the maximum, total process time to avoid any possible unwanted damage to the battery if detecting
errors is unusual.

Input power monitoring

To protect a car battery used as DC input power from being damaged, the voltage is constantly monitored.
If it drops below the lower limit, the process will be ended automatically.

5

CHARGER LAYOUT

Input power socket

18V DC

11

~

Input power socket

240V AC

100

~

LCD screen

Output charge lead
4mm banana plug

Balance lead sockets
JS T-X H po rts

Scroll through the Main Menu
Stop any charge processes

Temperature
probe socket

6

Alter values
See the status of individual
cell in balance charge mode

Resume or start charge processes
Confirm an action

LITHIUM POLYMER BALANCE CHARGE PROGRAM
CONNECTION DIAGRAM

This diagram shows the correct way to connect your battery to the Sigma EQ Evo charger whilst charging in the
balance charge program mode only.

WARNING:

Failure to connect as shown in this diagram will damage this charger.

Balance lead sockets JST-XH ports Direct or via

Output charge lead 4mm banana plug

The main battery leads must be connected along with the balance lead connector as shown, before charging your
battery.

(Option Part)

a balance
adaptor
board

7

WARNING AND SAFETY NOTES

These warnings and safety notes are par ticularly important. Please follow the
instructions for maximum sa fety or the charger and the battery can , at best , be
damaged, or at worst, cause a fire.

Never leave the charger unat tended when it is connected to its power supply. If any malfunction is found,
TERMI NATE THE PROCESS AT ONCE and refer to this manual.

Keep the charger well away from dust, damp, rain, heat, direct sunshine and vibration. Never drop it.

The allowable input voltage is 11-18V DC or 100-240V AC but not both at the same time.

This charger and the battery should be put on a he at-resistant, non-flammable and non-conductive surface.
Never place them on a car seat, carpet or similar. Keep all flammable and volatile materials away from
operating area.

Make sure that you know the specifications of the battery to be charged to ensure that it meets the
requirements of this charger. If the program is set up incorrectly, the battery and charger may be damaged.
It can also cause a fire or explosion due to over charging. The warranty is not valid for any damage or
subsequent damage arising as a result of a misuse or failure to observe the procedures outlined in this manual.
Always charge in well ventilated areas.

Battery type limits

NiCd/NiMH Voltage level:1.2V/cell - Allowable fast charge current:1C-2C (depends on the performance of the cells).

Li-ion Voltage level:3.6V/cell Max.charge voltage:4.1V/cell - Fast charge current: 1C or less.

8

NOTE: IC = 1 X Capacity in Amps, so 2200mAh is 2.2A.

Li- Po Voltage level:3.7V/cell Max. charge voltage: 4.2V/cell - Allowable fast charge current: 1C or less

recommended. Consult the battery manufacturer for higher.

Li- Fe Voltage level:3 .3V/ce ll Max. c harge voltage:3.6V/cell - Fast charge current: 1C or l ess. C onsul t

battery manufacturer for higher.

Li-HV Voltage level:3.85V/cell Max.charge voltage: 4.35V/cell - Allowable fast charge current: 1C o r less

Consult the battery manufacturer for higher.

Pb Voltage level:2.0V/cell (Lead-acid) Max. charge voltage: 2.46V/cell - Allowable fast charge current: 0.2C

or less.

To avoid a short circuit between the charge leads, always connect the charge

cable to the charger first, then connect the power source.
Reverse the sequence when disconnecting.

Do not connect more than one battery pack to this charger at any one time.

9

Never attempt to charge the following types of batteries.

A battery pack which consists of different types of cells (including different manufacturers).
Non-rechargeable batteries (Explosion hazard).
Batteries that require a different charge technique from NiCd, NiMh, Li-ion, Li-Fe, Li-HV, LiPo or Gel cell
(Pb, Lead acid).
A faulty or damaged battery.
A battery fitted with an integral charge circuit or a protection circuit.
Batteries installed in a device or which are electrically linked to other components.
Batteries that are not expressly stated by the manufacturer to be suitable for the currents the charger delivers

during the charge process.

Please bear in mind the fol lowing points be fore commencing charging:

Did you select the appropriate program suitable for the type of battery you are charging?
Did you set up appropriate current for charging?
Have you checked the battery voltage? Lithium battery packs can be wired in parallel and in series, i.e. a 2 cell
pack can be 3.7V (in parallel) or 7.4V (in series).
Have you checked that all connections are firm and secure? Make sure there are no intermittent contacts at any
point in the circuit.

10

Charging.

During the charge process,a specific quantity of electrical energy is fed into the battery. The charge quantity
is calculated by multiplying charge current by charge time. The maximum permissible charge current varies
depending on the battery type or its performance and can be found in the information from the battery
manufacturer. Only bat teries that are expressly stated to be capable of quick-charge should to be charged
at rates higher than the standard charge current.

Connecting the battery to the output socket of the charger: Red is positive and black is negative.
Due to the difference between resistance of different cables and connectors, the charger may be unable to
detect the correct resistance of the battery pack. The essential requirement for the charger to work properly is
that the charge lead should be of adequate conductor cross-section, and high quality connectors (which are
normally gold-plated) should be fitted to both ends.

Always refer to the manual from the battery manufacturer pertaining to charging methods, recommended
charging current and charging time. Lithium batteries should be charged according the charging instruction
provided by the manufacturer only.

Attention should be paid to the connection of L ithium battery in particular.

Do not attempt to disassemble a battery pack arbitrarily.

Please note that Lithium battery packs can be wired in parallel and in series. In parallel connection, the
battery’s capacity is calculated by doubling a single cell’s capacity. They stay the same as a series wired
pack. It is recommended to only charge series wired packs.

11

Program flow chart.

PROGRAM SELECT
Lithium battery

PROGRAM SELECT
NiMH/NiCd

PROGRAM SELECT
PB(Lead Acid)

PROGRAM SELECT
User Settings

LiPo FAST CHARGE

2.0A 22.2V(6S)

NiMH/CHARGE AUTO
CURRENT 2.0A

Pb C HARGE

2.0A 12.0V (6P)

Lithium battrey
CHK Time 5min

Capacity Cut=Off
ON 5000mAh

LiPo BALANCE CHG

2.0A AUTO

NiMH Sensitivity
D.Peak Default

Saf ety Ti mer
On 240min

LiPo CHARGE

2.0A 22.2V(6S)

NiCd Sensitivity
D.Peak Default

Temp. Cut=Off
On 80C

As a default setting, this charger will be set to
typical user values when it is connected to a
power source for the first time.
The screen displays the following information in
sequence and you can change parameters on
each screen.

If you need to alter a parameter value in the
program, press the
then change the value with the

button to make it f lash,

or buttons.
The value will be stored by pressing the button
on ce.

Pressing the

button will jump back to the first

column in this chart.

12

PROGRAM SELECT
Load Memory

Input Power Low
Cut=Off 11.0V

LS>Pb CHARGE

2.0A 14.4V (6P)

Completion Ring
Beep 5

01>NiMH CHARGE

2.0A AUTO

Key Beep ON
Buzzer ON

02>LiPo CHARGE

2.0A 22.2V(6S)

Watt Limit(W)
CHG 80

03>LiPo BALANCE

2.0A 7.4V(7S)

20>LiPo FAST CH

2.0A 11.1V(3S)

20 Memorie s

PROGRAM SELECT
User Settings

To avoid an erroneous setting by the user, the charger will automatically detect the cell count
of a Lithium battery at the beginning of the charge process. To prevent an
over discharged battery from being detected incorrectly, resulting in an error, you can set a
time limit for the processor to verify the cell count. The default setting is 5 minutes which is
typically enough time to properly detect the cell count. For batteries of a larger capacity, you
may extend the time, and for the batteries of a smaller capacity, you may reduce the time or
use with the default value.

This setting is for NiMH batteries only. This screen allows you to set the delta peak
detect settings between 5mV and 25mV per cell. The default is set at 10mV, suiting most
applications.

This setting is for NiCd batteries only. This screen allows you to set the delta peak
detect settings between 5mV and 25mV per cell. The default is set at 10mV, suiting most
applications.

ON

The screen shows the cut-off temperature of a battery. You can press “the

button” to select the cut-off temperature (Temp. Range: 0~90°C). The maximum temperature
of the battery can be set during the charge process. The process will be terminated
automatically to protect battery once the temperature of battery reaches this value. This
feature is accomplished through a temperature probe (optional).

button” or “the

13

When the charge process starts, the integrated safety timer starts to run simultaneously. If an
error is detected or the termination circuit can not detect weather the battery is fully charged
or not, this function is programmed to prevent extreme overcharging. Please refer to the
statement below to calculate the timer you set.

The program provides, a maximum capacity protection function. If the Delta-peak voltage
can not be detected or the safety timer does not time out, the charge process will stop
automatically, when the battery reaches the user-set maximum charge capacity.

Input Power Low
Cut-Off 11.0v

Watt Limit (W)
CHG: 50

14

This function monitors the voltage of the DC input battery used to power this charger. If the
voltage is lower than the set value, the program will end forcibly to protect the input battery.

This setting sets the amount of beeps the charger speaker plays when the selecte d charge
function completes.

The beep is to confirm user operation every time a button is pressed.
The beep or melody sounds at various times during operation to confirm different mode
changes. This function can be switched on or off.

You can set a Watt limit for the charge rate between 30W and 50W.

Safe timer Calculation

When charging NiCd or NiMH batteries , divide the capacity by, the current,then divide the result by 11.9, set this
number of minutes as the value for the safety timer set ting . If the charger stopped at this time limit, about 140% of
the capacity will have been fed into the battery.

For example:

Capacity Current Safety Time

2000mAh 2.0A (2000/2.0=1000)/11.9=84 minutes

3300mAh 3.0A (3300/3.0=1000)/11.9=92 minutes

1000mAh 1.2A (1000/1.2=833)/11.9=70 minutes

Lithium (LiIo/LiPo/LiFe/LiHV) program

The program is only suitable for charging Lithium batteries with a nominal voltage of 3.3/ 3.6/3.7 / 3.85V/cell.
Different bat teries have different charge techniques. There are two linked processes termed as constant voltage
and constant current.
The charge current varies according to battery capacity and specif ication.
The final voltage individual cell is very important.
It should precisely match the voltage of the battery type: LiPo is 4.2V, LiIo is 4.1V, LiFe is 3.6V, LiHV is 4.35V.
The charge current and total voltage of the battery should be correctly set.
The final voltage is not adjustable and is set at safe value already.
When you want to change the values of parameters, please press the
or

button to change the value.

Then press the

button again to store the value.

button to make it f lash and then use the

15

LiPo CHARGE

2.0A 11.1V(3S)

Li3S 2.0A 12.60V
CHG 022:43 0013

Number of
cells

:

LiPo BALANCE CHG

2.0A AUTO

:

Number
of cells

4.13 4.22 4.26

0.00 0.00 0.00

16

Supplied
capacity

Charging of Lithium batter y without balancing cells

The left side of the first line shows the type of battery you chose. The value on the left of
the second line of the charger is current set. After setting the current and voltage, press the

button for more than 3 seconds to start the process. This then displays the number of
cells you set up and the processor detects. “R” shows the number of cells detected by the
charger and “S“ is the number of cells set by you at the previous screen. If both numbers are
identical you can start charging by pressing the

If not, press the button to go back to previous screen and carefully check the number of
cells in the battery pack before going ahead.
This screen shows the real-time status during the charge process.
Press th e

Charging Lit hium batteries in the cell balance mode

This function is for balancing the voltage of Lithium-polymer battery cells while charging.
In the balance mode, the battery needs to have a balance lead connected to the appropriate
individual port on the right side of the charger. You need to connect the battery’s output
plugs to the 4mm output sockets of charger also. Charging in this mode is different from the
normal modes, because the built-in processor monitors voltage of individual cells and controls
input current fed into each cell to ‘balance’ the voltages.

The value on the left side of the second line sets the charge current. The value on the right
side of the second line sets the battery pack’s voltage. After setting current and voltage,
press the

This displays the number of cells you set up and the processor detects. “R” shows the
number of cells detected by the charger and ”S” is the number of cells set by you at the
previous screen. If both numbers are identical you can start charging by pressing the
button. If not, press the
number of cells in the battery pack before going ahead.

This screen shows the real-time status during the charge process.
Press the

button once to stop the charge process.

button for more than 3 seconds to start the process.

button to go back to the previous screen and carefully check the

button once to stop the charge process.

butto n.

Individual Cell Connection Diagram

Pin-assignme nt of 4-pin
and

7-pin JST-XH balance
connector

Fast Charging a Lithium battery

When charging lithium batteries in the fast mode the charging current will become lower
towards the end of charging cycle. When the current is down to 1/5 of the current you set
during the CV term, it will stop the process and eliminate the forcible requirement of the
balance precision (Whether it is been connected to the balance port or not). In the fast mode
the charging capacity is slightly lower than in normal charge mode, but the charging time is
reduced.

You can set up the charging current and voltage of the battery pack.

:

Charging
current

Battery
Voltage

Number
of cells

Charging time

4.13 4.22 4.26

0.00 0.00 0.00

Supplied
capacity

Press the button to display voltage confirmation.
Then press the button again to conf irm and begin charging.

This screen shows the real-time status of ” fast charging”. Press the
charge process.

button once to stop the

17

Voltage balancing and monitoring

The processor monitors the voltage of each cell when the battery packs are in the charge process. If the voltage of
any cell is abnormal, the Sigma EQ Evo will show an error message and terminate the program. If there is battery
damage or disconnection, you can see the error message and press the button to know which cell is damaged.

The processor detects that the voltage of one cell is too low.

The 4th cell was damaged. Note: The value of a voltage may be zero if disconnection occurs.

Charging of NiCd/NiMH battery

NiMH CHARGE AUTO
CURRENT 1.0A

This program is for charging and discharging of NiCd/ NiMH batteries associated with R/C
model applications. You can press the button to make the parameter flash and then the

or the button to change the parameter value. Press the button to store the value and
move onto the next parameter.
Only the bat tery type and current can be adjusted

The screen shows the real-time status. Press the button to end the program. A sound will
be emitted to indicate the end of program.

18

Pb (lead-sulphuric acid) battery program

This program is only suitable for charging a Pb (lead-acid) batteries with nominal voltage from 2 to 20V. A Pb
(lead-acid) battery is completely different to a NiCd / NiMH battery. These batteries can only deliver current lower in
comparison to their capacity. The same restriction applies to the charging process.
Consequently, the optimum charge current can only be 1/10 of the capacity. A Pb battery can not be fast-charged.
Please follow the instructions provided by the battery manufacturer. You can press the
alter the value of the parameters using

or the

buttons, press the

button to store the value.

button to make it f lash and

Charging of a Pb batter y

Set up the charge current on the left and the nominal voltage on the right.
The range of current is 0.1- 5.0A, and the voltage should match the battery being charged.
Press th e

button for more than 3 seconds to start charging.

This screen displays the real-time charging status.

:

Press th e

button to end the program.

Note: Only charge PB batteries in a well ventilated area.

19

Data memory program

For your convenience the Sigma EQ Evo has a data memory function. It automatically stores 20 operational data
sets, so you can call back the data when charging.

PROGRAM SELECT
Load Memory

Current

Memory number

LiPo CHARGE

4.6A 11 . 1V(3S)

R: 1SER S: 2SER
CONFIRM (ENTER)

20

Select “Load Memory” from the main menu, then press the button.

Press th e
There are memory slots from 1 through to 20, plus “LS”, which automatically saves the last
charging profile used.

Press th e
Here you can use the button to rotate between different settings.
Press th e

Once the setup is complete, you can either press and hold the button to run
the profile, or you can simply press the button to save the profile and exit.

or the buttons to cycle through the saved profiles.

button to customize the saved profile.

buttons to change them, then press the button again to save.

/

Various Information in the program

LiLO/LiPo/LiFe/LiHV

Temp Cut_Off
80C

Ext. Temp 0C
Int.Temp 57C

You can inquire about various information on the LCD screen during the charging process.
Press th e
monitor the voltage of each cell while the battery is connecte d to the balance port of the
charger.

It shows the displayed final voltage when the program ends.

The battery is connected to a port through a balance cable. You
can check voltage of each cell in the battery pack.
When the cable is connected to a port on the right SIDE of the
charger, the program will display voltage of up to 6 cells.
The battery pack needs an output connector connected with each
cell via the balance port.

The external temperature is displayed when the optional
temperature probe is used. (Sold separately)

button, the charger will display user’s setting. You can press the

button to

NiMH/NiCd

NiMH Sensitivity
D. Peak Default

Temp Cut_Off
80C

Ext. Temp 0C
Int.Temp 57C

21

Warning and error information

The Sigma EQ Evo incorporates a variety of functions for the systems to verify processes and the state of the
electronics. In case of an error the screen will display the cause of error and emit an audible sound.

Incorrect polarity connected.

Battery connection is interrupted.

Short-circuit of the output terminals.

The DC input battery has too low voltage.

The voltage of the battery pack has been selected incorrectly!

The charger has malfunctioned. Seek professional advice.

The voltage is lower than the value set. Please check the number of cells in the battery pack.

The voltage is higher than the value set. Please check the number of cells in the battery pack.

22

Warning and service

We warrant this product for a period of one year (12 months) from the date of purchase. This guarantee applies to
materials or operational defects, which are present at the time of purchasing the product. During that period we will
repair or replace, without service charge, any product deemed defective due to those causes.
You will be required to present proof of purchase (invoice or receipt). This warranty does not cover the damage
due to wear, overloading, incorrect handling or use of incorrect accessories.
This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.

Sigma EQ EVO

This product complies with the essential requirements of all appropriate EU directives. A copy of the declaration of
conformity can be obtained from Ripmax Ltd, www.ripmax.com

Instruction for disposal of WEEE by users in the European Union

Electrical equipment marked with the crossed wheelie bin symbol must not be discarded in the standard household
waste. Instead, it should be taken to a suitable specialist disposal location or your dealer.

All rights inc luding translatio n reserved. Reproduc tion by any method, e.g. photoc opy, microfilming, o r the capture in electron ic data
processing syste ms require the prior writ ten approval by the edito r. Reprinting, also in part, is prohibi ted. These operatin g instructions
represent the techn ical status at the time of p rinting. Changes in te chnology and e quipment reserve d.

Manufactured for: Ripmax Ltd., 241 Green Street, Enfield. EN3 7SJ. United Kingdom

23

Ripmax Ltd.

241 Green Street,

Enfield,

EN3 7SJ

United Kingdom

Ripmax GmbH

Futaba RC - Service

Stuttgarter Straße 20/22

75179 Pforzheim

Germany

Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.ripmax.com

Made in China

Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.ripmax.de