Features
- Spektrum Smart Technology Makes Charging and Maintaining Batteries Easy
- Automatic charging when paired with a Spektrum Smart Charger - insures safe and accurate charge parameters
- Internal Battery Temperature Monitor helps guarantee safe Charging and Discharging
- Integrated Microchip Stores Unique Parameters for Each Battery
- New IC3 and IC5 Connectors are Compatible with EC3 and EC5
- Save Time and Hassle, while Improving Battery Life
Overview
You'll never have to set charge preferences for a Spektrum Smart battery until you want to. When a Spektrum Smart NiMH battery is connected to a Spektrum Smart charger, unique parameters and health of that Smart NiMH battery upload from the Smart memory microchip integrated into the battery. Through the charger, you can view and set preferences, such as charge rates, so that all you have to do to charge the pack every time is press the charger "Start" button. Smart technology takes care of the rest.
Every Smart NiMH battery is factory assembled with the next-generation IC3T or IC5T output connector that's conveniently compatible with older devices equipped with robust EC3T and EC5T connectors. You can use Smart Batteries with older systems, but only when connected to a Spektrum Smart device will all the benefits of Smart technology become obvious.
Spektrum Smart NiMH Batteries Store Unique Data, such as:
- Battery Type
- Battery Capacity
- Battery C Rating
- Battery Temperature
- Charge/Discharge Cycles
Spektrum Smart NiMH batteries also maintain an error log including the number of over-heat, over-discharge and over-charge incidents which can be helpful data in assuring that the battery you've chosen is right for the application. A Smart Battery uploads its charge parameters to a Spektrum Smart Charger automatically making charging as simple as pressing the "Start" button. The charge rate of every Smart Battery is customizable, allowing you to take full advantage of packs with faster charge ratings.
Video Overview
Overview
The Spektrum 1800mAh 6-Cell 7.2V Smart NiMH Battery IC3 is a premium rechargeable battery solution designed for RC car enthusiasts across the UK who demand reliable, intelligent power management for their models. This Smart NiMH battery represents a significant advancement in RC battery technology, integrating an intelligent microchip that automatically communicates with compatible Spektrum Smart chargers to optimise charging parameters and ensure safe operation every time you use it. Whether you're running an RC car in the UK or managing a fleet of electric RC models, this battery simplifies your charging routine whilst protecting your investment through advanced monitoring and data logging capabilities.
Built with Spektrum's renowned Smart Technology, this 7.2V NiMH battery pack eliminates the guesswork from battery management. The integrated microchip stores critical information about your battery, including its type, capacity, C rating, temperature data, and complete charging and discharge cycle history. This means every time you connect your battery to a compatible Spektrum Smart charger, the charger automatically knows exactly how to charge your pack safely and efficiently. No more manual input, no more confusion about charge rates or preferences—just press the Start button and let Smart Technology handle the rest.
The new IC3 connector fitted to this battery is the next-generation standard from Spektrum, offering improved reliability and heat resistance compared to older connector types. Crucially, the IC3 connector is fully backwards compatible with the popular EC3 connectors found on many existing RC systems, meaning you can use this Smart battery with your current equipment even if you haven't yet upgraded to a full Smart charging ecosystem. However, you'll only unlock the full potential of Smart Technology when this battery is paired with a Spektrum Smart charger, giving you complete visibility into your battery's health and performance metrics.
Key Features
- Spektrum Smart Technology — The integrated microchip automatically uploads battery parameters to your Spektrum Smart charger, eliminating manual setup and ensuring safe, accurate charging every single time you use the battery. This hands-free approach saves you time and reduces the risk of incorrect charge settings damaging your battery.
- Internal Battery Temperature Monitor — Real-time temperature monitoring during both charging and discharging protects your battery and connected equipment from dangerous thermal runaway events. This is especially important for RC car UK users who want to extend battery lifespan and maintain consistent performance throughout the season.
- Integrated Data Microchip — Each battery stores unique parameters including battery type, capacity, C rating, temperature readings, charge cycles, discharge cycles, and a comprehensive error log tracking any over-heat, over-discharge, or over-charge incidents. This data helps you make informed decisions about whether the battery is right for your application and when it might be time for a replacement.
- IC3 Connector with EC3 Compatibility — The next-generation IC3 connector provides a more solid connection, superior heat resistance, and effortless installation compared to older standards. The connector is fully backwards compatible with EC3 connectors, meaning you can use this Smart battery with older systems immediately, though you'll need a Spektrum Smart charger to access all Smart features.
- Customisable Charge Rates — Take full advantage of the 1C charge rate capability by customising your charging preferences through the Smart charger. The battery remembers your last chosen charge rate, so settings automatically populate the next time you plug in—just press Start and go.
- Automatic Charge Parameter Upload — When connected to a Spektrum Smart charger, unique parameters and health data upload instantly from the battery's memory microchip, making charging as simple as pressing the Start button. Smart Technology takes care of all the variables automatically.
- Error Logging and Health Tracking — The battery maintains a detailed log of any unhealthy events such as over-charge, over-discharge, and over-temperature incidents. This helps you understand how your battery has been treated and whether it remains suitable for your intended RC applications.
- Save Time and Improve Battery Life — By automating charge parameters and protecting against common damage scenarios, Smart Technology extends the overall lifespan of your battery whilst reducing the time you spend managing charging routines.
Technical Performance
The SPM 1800mAh 6-Cell 7.2V Smart NiMH Battery delivers consistent, reliable power for surface RC vehicles and other electric RC models. With a capacity of 1800mAh across six NiMH cells, this battery provides 7.2V nominal output suitable for many mid-sized RC cars and trucks used by hobbyists across the UK. The battery supports a maximum charge current of 1.8A and a maximum charge rate of 1C, giving you flexibility in how quickly you can recharge between runs. At 1C rate, you can expect a full charge cycle in approximately one hour, making this battery practical for back-to-back racing or weekend bashing sessions. The battery measures 5.25 inches in length, 1.75 inches in width, and 1 inch in height, with a total weight of 9.5 ounces (270 grams), making it lightweight enough for small to medium RC vehicles whilst still providing sufficient power capacity. The 13 AWG wire gauge ensures safe current delivery without excessive voltage drop during high-drain applications. Built without a hard case, this is a flat-pack battery that fits neatly into most RC car chassis designed for NiMH power sources. The engineering prioritises safety through the integrated temperature monitor and microchip-based charge management, whilst the IC3 connector has been designed from the ground up to provide superior durability and connection reliability compared to earlier connector standards.
What's in the Box
- 1x Spektrum 1800mAh 6-Cell 7.2V Smart NiMH Battery with IC3 connector
What You Need to Complete
- Spektrum Smart charger (recommended to unlock all Smart Technology features)
- Compatible RC vehicle with EC3 or IC3 connector (or an adapter cable if your vehicle uses a different connector type)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Spektrum Smart NiMH battery technology and how does it work? — Spektrum Smart NiMH batteries contain an integrated microchip that stores critical battery data including type, capacity, C rating, temperature, and complete charge/discharge cycle history. When you connect the battery to a Spektrum Smart charger, this data uploads automatically, allowing the charger to apply perfect charge parameters without manual input. You simply press Start and the Smart charger handles everything else, including temperature monitoring during the charge cycle.
- Is this battery suitable for beginners? — Yes, absolutely. The Spektrum Smart Technology makes this battery ideal for beginners because it removes the complexity from battery management. Beginners no longer need to understand charge rates, cell counts, or voltage settings—the battery and charger communicate automatically. This reduces the risk of user error and makes the battery safer to use. The automatic parameter upload means there's virtually no setup required beyond pressing the Start button on your Smart charger.
- What is the advantage of the IC3 connector over older standards? — The IC3 connector is Spektrum's next-generation connector standard, engineered to provide a more solid connection, higher heat resistance, and effortless installation compared to older EC3 connectors. The IC3 also includes a data transfer wire that enables communication between the battery and your charger, which is essential for Smart Technology to function. Importantly, IC3 connectors are fully backwards compatible with EC3 connectors, so you can use this battery with older systems immediately, though you'll only get Smart benefits when paired with a Spektrum Smart charger.
- How long does it take to charge this battery? — At the maximum 1C charge rate (1.8A), the 1800mAh battery will charge in approximately one hour. You can charge more slowly if you prefer, which may extend the battery's lifespan in some applications. The exact charge time depends on your chosen charge rate and your specific Spektrum Smart charger model. Since the battery remembers your preferred charge rate, the charger will automatically apply the same rate on subsequent charges unless you manually change it.
- Can I use this battery with my existing RC car or charger? — This battery's IC3 connector is backwards compatible with EC3 connectors, so you can use it immediately with most existing EC3-equipped systems. However, to access all Spektrum Smart Technology features—including automatic parameter upload, temperature monitoring, and error logging—you'll need a Spektrum Smart charger. Without a Smart charger, the battery will function normally but won't benefit from the intelligent charge management that makes Smart Technology special.
- What data does the integrated microchip store? — The integrated microchip stores battery type, capacity, cell count, C rating, battery temperature readings, the total number of charge cycles, the total number of discharge cycles, internal resistance measurements, and a comprehensive error log that tracks how many times the battery experienced over-heat, over-discharge, or over-charge incidents. This data helps you understand your battery's history and make informed decisions about its continued use.
- How does the internal temperature monitor protect my battery and equipment? — The internal temperature sensor continuously monitors battery temperature during both charging and discharging. If the battery temperature exceeds safe operating limits, the monitor alerts your Spektrum Smart charger to adjust charging parameters or stop the charge entirely, preventing thermal runaway and potential damage. This is especially valuable during high-drain applications common in RC car racing and bashing in the UK.
- Can I customise the charge rate for this battery? — Yes. The Spektrum Smart charger allows you to customise the charge rate for this battery up to its maximum of 1C (1.8A). Once you set your preferred charge rate, the battery's microchip remembers this setting, and the charger automatically applies it the next time you plug in—you won't need to re-enter the same settings repeatedly.
- What does backwards compatibility with EC3 connectors mean? — It means this IC3 connector is physically and electrically compatible with the older EC3 connectors found on many existing RC vehicles and chargers. You can plug this battery directly into an EC3-equipped vehicle without requiring an adapter or modification. However, the IC3 connector includes a data transfer wire that EC3 connectors lack, so you won't get Smart Technology benefits unless both your battery and charger are Smart-compatible.
- Is this battery safe to leave charging unattended? — With a Spektrum Smart charger, yes. The integrated temperature monitor and Smart charge parameters ensure the battery charges safely without the risk of over-charge or thermal damage. Traditional NiMH chargers without Smart Technology features require more user oversight, which is why pairing this battery with a Spektrum Smart charger is strongly recommended.
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 1800mAh 6-Cell 7.2V Smart NiMH Battery IC3 O-SPMX18006C3 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.
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