Overview
The SPM 3200mAh 4S 14.8V 50C Smart LiPo Battery with IC3 connector represents the pinnacle of intelligent battery technology for RC aircraft and high-performance RC models. Manufactured by Spektrum, a recognised leader in RC electronics and accessories, this Smart LiPo battery is engineered for pilots and enthusiasts who demand reliability, convenience, and maximum performance from their power systems. Whether you're flying RC aeroplanes, RC helicopters, or powering other demanding RC applications, this 4S battery delivers the consistent power and advanced features you need to elevate your flying experience.
What sets this battery apart from conventional LiPo packs is its integrated Smart technology microchip, which transforms how you manage and maintain your batteries. Unlike standard RC batteries that require manual configuration and monitoring, the SPM 3200mAh 4S automatically communicates with Spektrum Smart Chargers, uploading unique parameters and battery health information with a single connection. This means less time fussing with settings and more time enjoying your RC hobby. The battery's powerful 50C continuous discharge rating ensures you have the punch needed for high-performance aerobatic flying, scale models, and aggressive flying styles, whilst the intelligent self-discharge feature helps preserve battery health when you're not using your aircraft.
For RC enthusiasts in the UK seeking a premium battery solution that combines cutting-edge smart technology with reliable performance, this Spektrum Smart LiPo battery is an excellent investment. The IC3 connector is fully backwards compatible with popular EC3 connectors, meaning it works seamlessly with existing RC equipment whilst offering the advanced benefits of Smart technology when paired with compatible chargers. Available at RC Model Shop, this battery represents a significant upgrade for anyone serious about their RC aircraft and looking to improve reliability, performance, and ease of use.
Key Features
- Integrated Smart Technology Microchip — Each battery contains a unique memory microchip that stores vital information including battery brand, type, capacity, C rating, cell count, charge and discharge cycle history, battery temperature, and internal resistance, allowing you to make fully informed decisions about battery selection and maintenance for your RC models.
- Automatic Parameter Upload to Smart Chargers — When connected to a Spektrum Smart Charger, the battery automatically uploads all its unique parameters and health data, eliminating the need to manually configure charge settings and allowing you to charge by simply pressing the 'Start' button every time.
- Customisable Charge Rates — Smart Battery technology allows you to personalise the charge rate for individual batteries, helping you take full advantage of faster charge capabilities whilst the charger remembers your last setting, automatically populating preferences on the next charge cycle.
- Smart Self-Discharge Feature — Programme your battery to automatically discharge to a safe storage voltage after a period of 12 to 240 hours, preventing the damage that occurs when lithium polymer cells remain fully charged for extended periods and significantly extending overall battery lifespan and performance.
- Powerful 50C Continuous Discharge Rating — This high discharge rate delivers exceptional power output for high-performance RC aircraft, aerobatic models, and demanding applications, ensuring your aircraft has the punch and responsiveness needed for aggressive flying and competitive performance.
- Error Logging and Health Monitoring — The battery maintains a comprehensive error log tracking instances of over-heat, over-discharge, and over-charge events, providing crucial diagnostic data to help you assess battery suitability for specific applications and identify potential issues before they become problems.
- IC3 and EC3 Connector Compatibility — Equipped with the innovative next-generation IC3 connector featuring integrated data transfer wiring, this battery is fully backwards compatible with existing EC3 connectors, allowing seamless integration with both legacy and modern RC equipment.
- Protective Metal Alloy Outer Sheet — The durable metal alloy exterior casing helps dissipate heat more effectively, maintains battery shape under stress, increases overall durability, and provides protection for the internal cell structure during transport and use.
- No Soldering Required — The pre-assembled IC3 connector eliminates the need for soldering, making battery installation quick, safe, and accessible even for those without soldering experience, whilst ensuring reliable connections from the factory.
- Data-Rich Battery Management — The integrated microchip allows you to access detailed battery information at any time, making you more aware and confident about your equipment's capabilities whilst ensuring you're always prepared for your day at the flying field.
Technical Performance
The SPM 3200mAh 4S 14.8V 50C Smart LiPo Battery represents a significant advancement in RC battery technology, combining proven lithium polymer chemistry with intelligent microprocessor-based monitoring and management. The 4-cell (4S) configuration delivers 14.8 volts nominal voltage, providing the high energy density necessary for demanding RC aircraft applications whilst maintaining the safety and reliability expected from a Spektrum product. With a capacity of 3200 milliamp-hours, this battery offers substantial flight time for most RC aeroplanes whilst remaining compact and lightweight at just 385 grams (13.5 ounces), with dimensions of 135mm length, 42mm width, and 25.4mm height, making it suitable for a wide range of aircraft designs and weight-limited applications.
The 50C continuous discharge rating is a standout specification that sets this battery apart from many competitors. This rating means the battery can safely deliver 160 amps of continuous current (3200mAh × 50C), making it suitable for high-performance electric aeroplanes, especially those equipped with brushless motors requiring significant power. The battery supports a maximum charge rate of 3C (9.6 amps), allowing for relatively quick charging when using compatible chargers. The soft-case construction with protective metal alloy outer sheet provides excellent heat dissipation during high-drain operations, preventing thermal damage to the cells and maintaining performance consistency even during extended flight sessions or aggressive manoeuvres. With 12 AWG wiring, the battery ensures minimal voltage drop under load, delivering maximum available power to your RC aircraft's motor and speed controller.
The Smart technology integration elevates this battery beyond conventional packs by providing unprecedented visibility into battery health and performance metrics. The integrated microchip continuously monitors cell voltages, discharge patterns, temperature, and cycle counts, creating a comprehensive history that helps you understand how each battery is performing over time. The included JST/XH balance connector works seamlessly with compatible chargers, whilst the charge protection circuitry safeguards against overcharging and other electrical faults. For RC aircraft enthusiasts in the UK seeking professional-grade performance combined with intelligent battery management, this Spektrum Smart LiPo represents excellent value and a significant upgrade over standard battery solutions.
What's in the Box
- SPM 3200mAh 4S 14.8V 50C Smart LiPo Battery with IC3 connector
- Integrated memory microchip with Smart technology
- JST/XH balance connector for charge monitoring
- Protective metal alloy outer casing
- Instruction manual and safety documentation
What You Need to Complete
- Spektrum Smart Charger (required to access full Smart battery features and automatic parameter uploading; standard chargers can charge the battery but will not utilise Smart technology benefits)
- RC aircraft with compatible 4S LiPo battery bay and XT60, EC3, or IC3 connector on the power system
- Appropriate charging environment with safe LiPo charging practices in place
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Spektrum Smart battery technology and how does it improve my RC flying? — Spektrum Smart technology features an integrated microchip that stores unique battery parameters, charge history, temperature data, and health information. When connected to a Spektrum Smart Charger, the battery automatically uploads this data, allowing the charger to configure itself correctly and charge the battery optimally by simply pressing 'Start'. This eliminates manual setup, reduces user error, and helps you make informed decisions about battery usage and maintenance. The battery also logs unhealthy events such as over-charge, over-discharge, and over-temperature, providing valuable diagnostic information to help ensure your battery is suitable for your specific application.
- Is this battery suitable for high-performance RC aircraft and aerobatic flying? — Yes, absolutely. The 50C continuous discharge rating makes this battery ideal for high-performance RC aeroplanes, particularly those equipped with brushless motors. The 50C rating means the battery can continuously deliver 160 amps of current, providing the substantial power needed for aggressive manoeuvres, rapid acceleration, and sustained high-load flying. This makes it perfect for aerobatic models, scale aircraft, and competition-level RC flying where performance and reliability are paramount.
- Can I use this Smart battery with my existing RC charger and aircraft equipment? — Yes, the IC3 connector is fully backwards compatible with popular EC3 connectors, so it will work with your existing RC equipment. However, you'll only access the full benefits of Smart technology when using a Spektrum Smart Charger. With a standard charger, you can charge the battery normally, but you won't be able to utilise automatic parameter uploading or the other intelligent features that make Smart batteries so convenient.
- How long will this battery last and what flight time should I expect? — The SPM 3200mAh 4S battery offers substantial capacity for extended flights. Actual flight time depends on your specific aircraft, motor, speed controller settings, and flying style. High-performance aerobatic flying will use the battery faster than gentle cruising flight. The Smart technology microchip tracks discharge cycles and battery health, allowing you to monitor battery condition over time and make decisions about when to replace or retire batteries based on actual data rather than guesswork.
- What makes the 50C discharge rating important for my RC aircraft? — The C rating indicates how quickly a battery can safely discharge its energy. A 50C rating on a 3200mAh battery means it can continuously deliver 160 amps (3200mAh × 50C = 160A). This is crucial for high-performance applications because it ensures the battery can sustain the power demands of your motor and speed controller without voltage sag or thermal damage. Higher C ratings provide headroom for peak power demands and help maintain consistent performance throughout your flight.
- Does this battery require special storage and maintenance procedures? — The Smart self-discharge feature is a game-changer for storage. You can programme the battery to automatically discharge to a safe storage voltage (typically 3.8V per cell) after 12 to 240 hours of inactivity. This is important because lithium polymer cells degrade when left fully charged for extended periods. By automatically bringing the battery to storage voltage, this feature significantly extends battery lifespan and maintains optimal performance for your next flying session. Standard storage practices still apply—keep the battery in a cool, dry location away from extreme temperatures.
- How does the protective metal alloy outer sheet benefit battery performance? — The metal alloy casing serves multiple purposes. It helps dissipate heat generated during high-drain operations, keeping the internal cells within optimal temperature ranges and preventing thermal damage that could reduce performance or lifespan. It also maintains battery shape and structural integrity under pressure, and provides physical protection during transport and use. The improved heat dissipation is particularly valuable for high-performance applications where sustained high currents generate significant heat.
- What is the maximum charge rate and how quickly can I recharge this battery? — The maximum continuous charge rate is 3C, which translates to 9.6 amps for this 3200mAh battery. This allows for relatively quick charging compared to lower-capacity packs, and you can customise the charge rate when using a Spektrum Smart Charger. The charger remembers your preferred charge rate and automatically applies it on subsequent charges, so once you've set it up once, charging becomes a single-button operation.
- Is this battery available in different capacities and configurations? — Yes, Spektrum offers the 50C Smart LiPo line in various capacities and cell counts to suit different applications. This 3200mAh 4S configuration is suitable for medium-sized to large RC aircraft. If you need different power characteristics, Spektrum makes other capacities and cell counts, though this particular model is optimised for balanced performance, flight time, and weight for a wide range of RC aeroplanes.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the SPM 3200mAh 4S 14.8V 50C Smart LiPo Battery; IC3 O-SPMX32004S50 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
