- Product Type: Battery Connector Adapter
- Manufacturer: Spektrum
- Model Number: SPMXCA326
- Input Connector: IC3 Battery Connector
- Output Connector: JST-PH / UMX Device Connector
- Balance Connector: JST-XH
- Compatible Battery Type: LiPo
- Compatible Battery Cell Count: 2S
- Compatible Battery Voltage: 7.4V nominal
- Supported Charger: Spektrum Smart Chargers with IC3 charge output leads
- What's in the Box: 1x Adapter: IC3 Battery / PH Device
- Customer Rating: 3.6 out of 5
Overview
The Spektrum Adapter: IC3 Battery / PH Device (O-SPMXCA326) is an essential connectivity solution for RC hobbyists who own LiPo batteries with JST-PH and UMX connectors but operate Spektrum Smart Chargers equipped with IC3 charge output leads. This compact adapter bridges the gap between different battery connector standards, allowing seamless integration of your existing battery collection with modern Spektrum charging equipment. Whether you're flying RC planes, operating RC cars, or managing a diverse fleet of electric RC models across the UK, this adapter eliminates the need to purchase entirely new batteries or chargers, making it a cost-effective and practical investment for any serious RC enthusiast.
Designed and manufactured by Spektrum, a trusted name in RC electronics and accessories, this adapter maintains the highest standards of safety and compatibility. The IC3 connector standard has become increasingly common on Spektrum Smart Chargers, yet many hobbyists still operate PH/UMX connector batteries from older RC equipment or compact ready-to-run RC models. This adapter solves that compatibility challenge, allowing you to charge and balance 2S 7.4V LiPo batteries using your existing Spektrum charging infrastructure, ensuring consistent battery performance and longevity across your entire RC collection.
Whether you're a seasoned RC enthusiast managing multiple battery packs, a beginner building your first RC car or aircraft collection, or someone who has invested in various RC products over the years, the SPM Adapter: IC3 Battery / PH Device is a small but invaluable addition to your RC toolkit. Its reliability, compact design, and straightforward functionality make it an indispensable accessory for anyone serious about maintaining and extending the lifespan of their LiPo batteries.
Key Features
- IC3 to JST-PH Connector Conversion — This adapter specifically bridges IC3 battery connectors on Spektrum Smart Chargers to PH/UMX connector batteries, enabling charging compatibility across different equipment generations and manufacturers. This is essential if you have accumulated RC equipment over time or own batteries from multiple RC model sources.
- JST-XH Balance Lead Support — The integrated JST-XH balance connector allows you to properly balance charge 2S LiPo batteries, which is critical for maintaining cell voltage equilibrium and maximising battery lifespan. Balanced charging prevents cell damage and extends your expensive LiPo investment significantly.
- 2S 7.4V LiPo Battery Compatibility — This adapter is specifically designed for 2-cell LiPo batteries with 7.4V nominal voltage, which are commonly used in compact RC aircraft, small RC cars, and medium-sized RC models. The 2S configuration is ideal for smaller-scale RC applications where higher capacity per cell isn't required.
- Spektrum Smart Charger Integration — Works seamlessly with most Spektrum Smart Chargers that feature IC3 charge output leads, allowing you to leverage your existing charger's advanced features such as automatic cell detection, temperature monitoring, and optimised charge profiles specifically calibrated for LiPo battery chemistry.
- Compact and Lightweight Design — The adapter maintains a minimal footprint, making it convenient to store in your RC toolkit, charger bag, or workshop without occupying significant space. Its lightweight construction adds negligible weight to your battery charging station setup.
- Safe Battery Handling — By enabling proper balanced charging through the JST-XH balance port, this adapter ensures your PH/UMX connector batteries receive optimal charging profiles, reducing fire risk and extending cycle life compared to charging batteries without balance lead access.
Technical Performance
The Spektrum Adapter: IC3 Battery / PH Device represents a straightforward but essential piece of RC electrical infrastructure. Built to Spektrum's quality standards, this adapter facilitates the connection between IC3 battery connectors and JST-PH/UMX device connectors, specifically supporting 2S 7.4V LiPo battery charging and balancing. The inclusion of a JST-XH balance lead connector means you can perform proper cell-level balancing during charge cycles, which is fundamental to LiPo battery maintenance and safety. The adapter works with most Spektrum Smart Chargers equipped with IC3 charge output leads, making it compatible with the majority of current-generation Spektrum charging equipment available in the UK market. Construction quality is consistent with Spektrum's reputation for reliable RC accessories, ensuring the adapter will handle repeated connection cycles without degradation. The adapter enables users to avoid the expense of purchasing new batteries simply because their existing PH/UMX connector batteries are incompatible with their IC3-equipped charger. For RC enthusiasts who charge multiple battery packs daily, this adapter represents reliable, dependable performance over extended periods of use.
What's in the Box
- 1x Adapter: IC3 Battery / PH Device with JST-XH Balance connector
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use this SPM adapter to charge my PH connector 2S LiPo batteries on a Spektrum Smart Charger with IC3 leads? — Yes, this is precisely what the adapter is designed for. If your Spektrum Smart Charger features IC3 charge output leads and you have 2S 7.4V LiPo batteries with JST-PH or UMX connectors, this adapter creates the necessary connection, allowing your charger to deliver power to your batteries safely and with proper balance charging through the integrated JST-XH balance lead.
- What is the difference between IC3 and JST-PH connectors used in RC hobbies? — IC3 is a compact three-pin connector standard increasingly used on modern Spektrum Smart Chargers and some contemporary RC batteries and devices. JST-PH (and related UMX connectors) are older standards found on many existing RC batteries, particularly those from compact ready-to-run RC models and older RC equipment. They are physically incompatible without an adapter like this one, even though both carry the same voltage and can safely charge compatible batteries.
- Will this adapter work with all Spektrum Smart Chargers? — This adapter is compatible with most Spektrum Smart Chargers that feature IC3 charge output leads. Before purchasing, verify that your specific charger model has IC3 connector outputs. If your charger uses a different connector standard, this adapter will not be suitable for your equipment.
- Is this adapter suitable for beginners getting into RC hobbies? — Yes, absolutely. Beginners often inherit or purchase used RC equipment, and battery connector compatibility can be confusing for newcomers to the hobby. This adapter makes the transition seamless, allowing beginners to safely charge existing batteries without purchasing duplicative equipment. The adapter facilitates proper balanced charging, which is an essential safety practice for all LiPo battery users regardless of experience level.
- What voltage and cell count batteries does this adapter support? — This adapter is specifically designed for 2S LiPo batteries with 7.4V nominal voltage (two cells of 3.7V each). It is not suitable for 1S, 3S, 4S or higher cell count batteries. Always verify your battery specifications before using this adapter to ensure compatibility.
- Why is the JST-XH balance connector important? — The balance connector allows your Spektrum Smart Charger to individually monitor and balance the voltage of each cell within your 2S battery during charging. This prevents one cell from overcharging whilst another remains undercharged, which maximises battery lifespan, maintains optimal performance, and most importantly, reduces fire and swelling risks associated with imbalanced LiPo batteries.
- Can I use this adapter with non-Spektrum chargers? — This adapter is designed specifically for Spektrum Smart Chargers with IC3 charge output leads. Compatibility with other charger brands cannot be guaranteed, and attempting to use it with non-Spektrum equipment may result in damage to your charger, adapter, or battery. Always use Spektrum adapters with Spektrum equipment for safety and reliability.
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 Adapter: IC3 Battery / PH Device O-SPMXCA326 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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