Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for charging a plurality of sets of rechargeable electric batteries incorporated in respective portable appliances. The system comprises, in combination: a DC constant current generator circuit (C) having first and second output terminals (13, 14); and a plurality of bases (E.sub.1, . . . , E.sub.x, . . . , E.sub.n), each base comprising: mechanical link means; means for receiving the body of a portable appliance containing a rechargeable battery set; first and second electrical output connection elements (CO.sub.x1, CO.sub.x2) for connection to the terminals of a rechargeable battery set when associated therewith for charging; and electrical link means (I.sub.x1, I.sub.x2 ; O.sub.x1, O.sub.x2) for connecting the output connection elements (CO.sub.x1, CO.sub.

Abstract: A battery charger for charging an electric battery pack has a supply rectifier connectable to the battery pack via a thyristor. A thermistor is mounted on a mechanical structure and brought into thermal contact with a cell of the battery pack to measure the temperature thereof. Comparators control the firing of the thyristor in dependence on the state of the thermal conductive relationship between the thermistor and the cell and also upon dependence of a correct electrical connection between the thermistor and the battery pack.