Abstract: A battery system includes a battery pack having a plurality of batteries and electronic circuitry for monitoring battery parameters and producing an analog output signal related to the state of the charge in the batteries. An attachment is detachably mounted on the battery pack and produces a display indicating the state of charge in the batteries using the analog output signal from the battery pack. The attachment which includes a bracket and a display unit also serves as connector for connecting the battery pack to the device which is to be powered by the battery pack.

Abstract: An intelligent battery system senses current flowing in the direction of charge current through positive and negative terminals and battery cells of a battery pack. In response, a processor within the battery pack transmits battery parameter data to a separate output port of the battery pack. The battery parameter data includes the state of charge of the battery cells, temperature data and the type of battery pack. The processor also responds to specific data requests transmitted into the battery terminals by transmitting the requested battery parameter data. The battery pack is also designed to minimize power dissipation of the processor. When the battery pack is not subjected to either charge or discharge for a predetermined period, the processor is rendered into a "light-sleep" mode in which power dissipation is substantially reduced. The processor is awakened from the light-sleep either by a timer or by charge or discharge activity to monitor the amount of charge or discharge and other battery parameters.

Abstract: A system for sequentially charging a plurality of batteries initially interrogates each battery to determine the battery type and the level of charge. The charging system prioritizes the batteries to be charged from most to least fully charged and charges the batteries in that order. The charging is provided by pulsed current during sequential portions of periodic intervals to charge the batteries in a short period of time and utilize the battery charger to full or nearly full capacity.

Abstract: A battery charging apparatus and method is disclosed. The battery charger includes a programmable two level constant current source having an inhibit input. A clock signal is fed to counting stages which time out after a specified time, during which time the battery is charged with constant current. A temperature sensing circuit detects the temperature of the charging battery and will allow the battery to charge at a reduced rate for a longer time period if the temperature increases above a threshold level. Once the counting stages time out, the battery charger pulse charges the battery at the reduced current level, preferably at a 20% duty cycle, at relatively long intervals to keep the battery from self discharging.