Abstract: Batteries are charged using sequences of charge and discharge pulses in which a controller adjusts charge rate and/or terminates the charge process based on measurements taken during the preceding charge cycle and an internally computed algorithmic logic equation to optimize the charge cycle for the battery being charged. A preferred embodiment utilizes six sense parameters, three of which are 1.sup.st order (V.sub.ps, V.sub.load and V.sub.unload)and three of which are 2.sup.nd order (V'.sub.ps, V'.sub.load and V'.sub.unload). The charging scheme is applicable to batteries of many different types, including lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and nickel-metal-hydride), and requires neither input of battery type nor instrumentation of the battery.