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HOTA F6 Charger Review

Overview

The HOTA F6 is a smart 4-channel balance charger/discharger designed for RC batteries, with support for multiple chemistries including LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, Li-ion, NiMH, NiCd, and Pb batteries. The manual provides setup instructions, technical specifications, safety guidelines, and detailed operational features to help users maximize performance while ensuring safety.

Key Features

  • 4-channel design: Can independently charge/discharge four batteries simultaneously.

  • Wide battery support: Compatible with 1–6S lithium-based batteries and various other chemistries.

  • Balance charging: Ensures each cell in multi-cell packs is charged evenly to extend battery life.

  • Multiple charge modes: Includes balance, storage, discharge, and fast charge options.

  • Smart protections: Over-voltage, over-current, over-temperature, and short-circuit protection.

  • User interface: Color display with navigation buttons and a scroll wheel for menu selection.

  • Upgradeable firmware: Supports updates via USB for future enhancements.

Strengths

  • Versatility: Broad compatibility with different battery types and chemistries makes it useful for hobbyists with varied battery needs.

  • Efficiency: Independent 4 channels improve charging flexibility and reduce downtime.

  • Safety-first design: Built-in protections and clear warnings minimize risks of mishandling batteries.

  • Detailed instructions: The manual includes clear diagrams and step-by-step usage guidance.

  • Additional functions: Supports internal resistance measurement and cycle charging for battery maintenance.

Weaknesses

  • Complex setup for beginners: The manual is thorough but can be overwhelming for newcomers to RC battery charging.

Usability
The manual emphasizes safety and accuracy in setup, requiring users to carefully configure settings based on their battery type. Advanced users will appreciate the level of control, but beginners may need extra learning time. Diagrams help with wiring clarity, but some technical jargon may be challenging.

How to Use the HOTA F6 Charger

The HOTA F6 is a versatile 4-channel charger that allows you to charge up to four batteries simultaneously, each with a maximum output of 250W at 15A. To ensure safe and efficient operation, follow these steps:

1. Powering On the Charger

  • Connect the Power Supply: Ensure your power supply provides a DC input voltage between 10.5V and 30V. For optimal performance, a voltage above 23V is recommended. The charger will perform a self-check upon powering up.

  • Pro tip: I use an XT60-to-USB-C converter to power mine, and it works fine for 4S batteries.

2. Connecting Batteries

  • Select a Channel: Press the corresponding channel button (CH1–CH4) to select the channel you wish to use. Alternatively, on the screen showing all 4 channels, you can use the scroll wheel to select a channel.

  • Connect Battery: Plug your battery into the selected channel's input port. The charger will attempt to auto-detect the cell count, but always verify the chemistry and settings before starting.

4 channels screen. Blue means standby, Yellow is charging, Green is balancing (not shown). After charging is completed it will switch from yellow to a green balancing screen for a short period, then back to a blue standby screen when finished balancing.

3. Selecting Charge Mode

  • Access Task Settings: Press the scroll wheel (speed shuttle key) to enter the "Task Settings" menu.

  • Choose Task: Rotate the scroll wheel to select the desired task (e.g., Balance, Storage, Discharge, Fast Charge).

  • Confirm Selection: Press the scroll wheel to confirm your selection.

Task Settings View.

4. Starting the Charging Process

  • Begin Charging: After selecting the task, select the Start Task button and then press the scroll wheel to start the charging process.

  • Monitor Progress: The charger will display real-time data, including voltage, current, and charging status.

5. Stopping All Channels Charging

  • On the screen that displays 4 channels: Hold the "OK" button for 2 seconds to stop all channels from charging simultaneously.

6. Stopping a Task on One Channel

  • Interrupt Task: To stop the current task on a single channel, press and hold the channel button (CH1–CH4) for 2 seconds.

7. Adjusting Task Parameters

  • Access Adjustments: While a task is running, press the scroll wheel to access the "Adjust Task" menu.

  • Modify Settings: Use the scroll wheel to adjust parameters such as current or voltage.

  • Confirm Changes: Press the scroll wheel to apply the changes.

Verdict

The HOTA F6 is a powerful, reliable, and safety-focused charger well-suited for RC enthusiasts with diverse battery types. While it may not be the most beginner-friendly option, experienced users will value its 4-channel efficiency, wide compatibility, and robust protection features. The manual does a solid job explaining operations but could be streamlined for newcomers.