Is it ok to connect multiple identical Li-po packs in parallel and charge them all at once at a very high current? For example, if I have four 2000 mah packs, normally I would have to charge each in turn at 2 amps. However, if I connected them all in parallel using a parallel connector, could I charge them all at once at up to 8 amps? I've done this before with NiMH, and I can't see how it's different than simply having one pack composed of several cells in parallel. I just wanted to see if anyone else is doing it. It would sure cut down on charge time.

Originally Posted by lynnpreston

Is it ok to connect multiple identical Li-po packs in parallel and charge them all at once ... For example, if I have four 2000 mah packs, normally I would have to charge each in turn at 2 amps. However, if I connected them all in parallel using a parallel connector, could I charge them all at once at up to 8 amps? ... I just wanted to see if anyone else is doing it. It would sure cut down on charge time.

I use a variable up to 20 amp, 30 volt regulated DC power supply to do that.

Nominally identical packs may not be, for a number of reasons, so I also check the initial amperage into each pack with a Sears clamp-on digital ammeter. In your case, it should be about 2 amps for each pack.

- RD

i do my 3s2p 1500 and 2100 packs using the parallel current value (3000 and 4200); no problems.
but i also have them set up as sperate 3s packs externally tied into a parallel arangement so that i can check pack voltages or charge the 3s packs by themselves.

Yeah, I plan on doing the same. I run them as 3s1p packs and just connect them in parallel to charge them.