FAQ's

Pre 1990's batteries were under the following idea/"Rule of thumb"
NiCD Charge @ 1 x Capacity
Discharge @ 20 x Capacity
NiMH Charge @ 1/10 x Capacity
Discharge @ 10 x Capacity

Today's improvements in chargers and batteries have lead to rapid/fast cycling of cells/packs. However, most manufacturers recommend something of the above rates for longitivity and best results from thier product.
FACT: A 15 or 30 minute charger will not give you the capacities displayed on the cell by the manufacturer.

I have been flying RC models for many years primarily in competition as a means of improving my ability. I'm no wiz at flying but have developed over many years to achieve the goal of flying large Scale WWII models. These models range in value from $1000 to $15000. The first thing we all rely on is that both Transmitter and Reciever batteries are performing and capable of handling what ever may be required of them.

Leading upto a weekend of practise, fun or competition is spent checking the batteries making sure they are all slow charged for the best capacity possible. I use the following method on the Hyperion range of chargers (similar chargers are used throughout the hobby):
For all Nickel based batteries (NiCD/NiMH) set the charger to 2amps NiMH and after completetion repeat using a charge rate of 0.2amps. This is because the programming utilises a resistance time line for completion. Faster rates are always possible but you still need to top-off the charge for maximum capacity, and these two rates I have found to be the best and easiest.

Once every 3 months or when time permits, completely discharge your Nickel based cells (1 amp rate) recording the amount of capacity. Manufacturers use 80% or below to be an indication of the cell on the way out.

If you use cells/packs at the maximum rates don't expect them to last too long, this is especially so when using LiPoly packs, which I always maintain it is better to add an extra cell, lowering the discharge rate per cell to around 3/4 of the manufacturers maximum. It is unfortunately part of the RC Hobby way of life to achieve maximum results!