What is a balancer supposed to do?

[brtlmj]

If I understand it correctly, a balancer is used to equalize voltage in all cells in a pack. Is there anything else it does? Would it be possible to make an el cheapo balancer by connecting a Zener diode and a resistor to each cell?

Thanks!
Bartek

[Miami Mike]

I built my el cheapo balancer in the form of a switchbox that lets me charge one cell at a time.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=611114

[brtlmj]

Good idea... I might copy it ;)

Bartek