Spektrum Charge Lead with Balance Extension 24" Introduction
The Spektrum™ Balance Extensions, with their 24-inch-long charge and balance extensions, are designed to extend the JST-XH style balance plug on a LiPo battery for charging purposes. For hobbyists who want more flexibility on where they want to charge their batteries, such as in a LiPo bag, these extensions are the perfect solution. They include a normal balance lead for Spektrum G1 Smart or competitors' batteries, and a grey Smart wire for use with SPM G2 Smart batteries, ensuring a secure and efficient charging process.
Spektrum Charge Lead with Balance Extension 24" Features
- Twenty-four inches long
- Allows for easier charging of 2S to 4S packs that have IC5 connectors
- Includes both male and female connectors
- Compatible with both G1 and G2 Smart batteries, as well as non-Smart batteries
Overview
The Spektrum Charge Lead with Balance Extension 24 inch IC5 (Model O-SPMX-1013) is an essential accessory for RC enthusiasts across the UK who demand flexibility and convenience when charging their LiPo batteries. This carefully engineered extension lead is designed specifically for hobbyists who want to charge their batteries in alternative locations, such as inside a protective LiPo charging bag, without being restricted by cable length. Whether you're a competitive racer, a weekend basher, or someone new to the RC hobby, this 24-inch balance extension provides the perfect solution for managing your battery charging setup with ease and safety.
Manufactured by Spektrum, the global leader in spread spectrum technology for RC applications, this charge lead represents a commitment to quality and reliability. The 24-inch length gives you unprecedented flexibility when positioning your batteries during the charging process, which is particularly valuable for RC car UK enthusiasts who use LiPo bags or want to keep their charging area separate from their main workspace. This extension works seamlessly with both IC5 connectors and is compatible with 2S to 4S LiPo battery packs, making it an incredibly versatile addition to your RC charging station.
The product includes both standard balance connectors for conventional LiPo batteries and a dedicated grey Smart wire for use with Spektrum's advanced SPM G2 Smart battery technology. This dual-compatibility approach means that whether you're running traditional batteries or upgrading to Spektrum's latest intelligent battery systems, this single extension lead will serve your needs. For anyone serious about maximising battery lifespan and ensuring optimal charging conditions across their fleet of ready to run RC vehicles, this accessory is a worthwhile investment.
Key Features
- 24-Inch Extended Length — The generous 24-inch cable length allows you to position your batteries away from your main charging station, which is especially useful when charging inside a LiPo safety bag or when you want to keep your charging area separate from your RC car or truck. This extended reach eliminates the need for additional extension cables and provides superior flexibility compared to standard charge leads.
- IC5 Connector Compatibility — The lead features IC5 connectors, which are the industry-standard connector type for high-performance LiPo batteries used in modern RC cars, trucks, buggies and crawlers across the UK. This ensures secure, reliable connections with minimal voltage drop during the charging process.
- 2S to 4S Battery Support — Whether you're running a lightweight 2-cell battery pack or a powerful 4-cell configuration, this extension accommodates all common LiPo cell counts. This makes it ideal for charging across your entire fleet of brushless RC vehicles, from entry-level ready to run models through to competition-grade machines.
- Dual Balance Connector System — The lead includes both a standard balance connector for conventional LiPo batteries and competitors' products, as well as a dedicated grey Smart wire specifically designed for Spektrum SPM G2 Smart batteries. This dual-connector approach ensures you're never limited by your battery type, whether you're using traditional or intelligent battery systems.
- G1 and G2 Smart Battery Compatibility — Full compatibility with both Spektrum G1 Smart and G2 Smart battery technology means you can confidently charge advanced intelligent batteries that feature built-in cell balancing, thermal monitoring and cycle tracking. You're also covered for standard non-Smart batteries from any reputable manufacturer.
- Male and Female Connectors Included — The lead features both male and female balance connectors, providing maximum flexibility when connecting to different battery types and charging systems. This versatility ensures the extension works seamlessly with your existing RC setup regardless of your current connector configuration.
- Enhanced Safety and Convenience — By allowing you to charge your batteries at a safe distance from your main RC workspace, you can monitor your charging process more effectively and maintain better safety practices. The extended length means you can place batteries in a dedicated charging bag or fireproof container whilst easily observing charging progress.
Technical Performance
The SPM Charge Lead with Balance Extension represents Spektrum's engineering excellence in battery charging accessories. Built with high-quality materials and precision connectors, this lead ensures minimal electrical resistance during the charging cycle, which translates to faster, more efficient charging of your 2S through 4S LiPo battery packs. The 24-inch length is carefully calculated to provide functional extension without introducing unwanted capacitance or signal degradation that could interfere with smart battery communication protocols. The lead's construction quality is evident in the robust IC5 connectors, which provide a secure, low-resistance connection essential for safe battery charging. The inclusion of both standard JST-XH style balance plugs and Spektrum's proprietary grey Smart wire demonstrates the manufacturer's commitment to supporting both legacy and next-generation battery technology. Whether you're charging a single battery for a quick afternoon of bashing with your RC truck or managing multiple packs for a competitive racing event, this extension lead maintains the same level of reliability and performance that Spektrum is renowned for across the RC hobby world.
What's in the Box
- SPM Charge Lead with Balance Extension 24 inch IC5
- Standard balance connector for JST-XH compatible batteries
- Grey Smart wire for SPM G2 Smart batteries
- Male and female balance connectors
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do I need a 24-inch charge lead extension for my RC batteries? — A longer charge lead extension provides critical flexibility in where you can position your batteries during charging. Many RC enthusiasts prefer to charge their LiPo batteries inside a dedicated LiPo safety bag or fireproof charging container, which may be at a distance from your charger. The 24-inch length of this Spektrum extension allows you to safely charge your 2S to 4S battery packs without stretching your main charger cables or compromising safety protocols.
- Is this compatible with my current Spektrum smart battery system? — Yes, absolutely. This charge lead includes both a standard balance connector for conventional batteries and a dedicated grey Smart wire specifically designed for Spektrum SPM G2 Smart batteries. It's also backward compatible with G1 Smart batteries and any non-Smart LiPo battery with a JST-XH style balance plug, making it a universally compatible solution for your RC charging setup.
- What battery cell counts does this extension support? — The Spektrum Charge Lead works with 2S, 3S and 4S LiPo battery packs, covering the vast majority of modern RC cars, trucks and buggies available in the UK market. Whether you're charging lightweight 2S packs for small-scale vehicles or high-performance 4S packs for brushless competition models, this extension handles all common configurations.
- Can I use this with non-Spektrum batteries? — Yes, this extension is fully compatible with batteries from other manufacturers, provided they feature IC5 connectors and standard JST-XH balance plugs. The lead includes connectors that work with any reputable LiPo battery brand, making it a versatile addition to any RC enthusiast's charging station regardless of battery manufacturer.
- Is this suitable for beginners new to the RC hobby? — Absolutely. In fact, beginners particularly benefit from having a longer charge lead extension, as it encourages safer charging practices by allowing you to position batteries at a safe distance from your main workspace. The extension is simple to use, requires no special knowledge, and actually makes the charging process safer and more convenient for anyone getting started with RC cars or trucks.
- How does this improve my battery charging safety? — By extending the reach of your balance connector, you can charge your batteries in a dedicated LiPo safety bag or fireproof charging box positioned away from people and flammable materials. This separation of the charging area from your main RC workspace significantly enhances safety during the charging cycle, which is especially important for high-capacity 3S and 4S packs commonly used in brushless RC vehicles.
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 Charge Lead with Balance Extension 24 inch IC5, 2-4S O-SPMX-1013 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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