Micropower Chargers: Volts, Amps and Charging Time
Choosing a battery charger comes down to three numbers: the battery's nominal voltage, its capacity in Ah and the charge current in amps. This guide shows how they relate, using published Micropower figures. MK-Controls Oy supplies Micropower chargers and DC/DC converters in Finland.
Try the numbers: voltage, amps and charging time
Change the battery voltage and the charge current to see output power, mains load and approximate charging time. The values come from Micropower's Sharp 20 datasheet; the charging time is a rule-of-thumb estimate, not Micropower data.
- Start with the voltage. The charger's nominal voltage has to match the battery. The Sharp 20 range covers 12, 24, 36 and 48 V.
- The current sets the charging time. A higher current charges faster, within the limit given by the battery manufacturer.
- Figures you can verify. Rated output, mains power and efficiency are listed in the Micropower datasheet.
- Need help choosing? Send us the battery voltage, capacity and connector, and we suggest a suitable charger.
Micropower product groups
Champ IP67 chargers
Sealed IP67 chargers for damp, dusty or washdown environments, in 12 V and 24 V.
View Champ chargers →
DC/DC converters
Convert 24, 48 or 80 V battery voltage to 12 or 24 V for auxiliary equipment.
View DC/DC converters →
Adjustable power supplies
PAP802 adjustable DC supplies and a service charger for workshop and test use.
View adjustable supplies →Looking for higher currents, or the SHARP 50/100, ACCESS or LION ranges? Send us a quote request with the battery voltage and capacity. You can also browse all Industrial Chargers, DC/DC Voltage Converters and matching REMA battery connectors.
Selecting a charger in three steps
- Check the battery label. Write down the nominal voltage and the capacity in Ah.
- Decide the charge current. Divide the capacity by the hours available for charging, then confirm the maximum charge current with the battery manufacturer.
- Select the connector. Tell us which plug your battery has. Many chargers can be supplied with a REMA connector.
Not sure which charger fits?
Send us the battery voltage, capacity and plug type and we will suggest a matching Micropower charger. A single unit can be ordered directly in the webshop. Quoted prices are available for multiple units.
Frequently asked questions
Why does a 24 V charger deliver about 28.8 V?
A 24 V lead-acid battery consists of 12 cells. During charging each cell reaches roughly 2.4 V, and Micropower specifies the Sharp 20 output current at 2.4 V per cell. 12 cells × 2.4 V = 28.8 V.
How is the mains power calculated?
Output power is the charging voltage multiplied by the rated current. Dividing by the efficiency from the datasheet gives the power drawn from the mains. For the 13 Sharp 20 models the result is within 3 % of Micropower's published values.
Can a charger of a different voltage be used?
No. The charger must match the nominal voltage of the battery. Select the voltage first and the current second.
How long does charging take?
For a discharged lead-acid battery a rough estimate is capacity in Ah × 1.2 ÷ charge current in A. The actual time depends on the battery, the charging profile and temperature.
Are other battery types supported?
Micropower states that its chargers suit all battery types, including lithium-ion. Tell us the battery type and we will confirm the correct model before you order.
Who manufactures the chargers?
Micropower manufactures them. MK-Controls Oy supplies them in Finland.
Can I order a single charger?
Yes, one unit can be ordered in the webshop. For several units or higher currents, please request a quote.
Sources: Micropower Sharp 20 datasheet and technical data, Micropower Group product information. DC/DC input power in the explainer is the ideal value before losses. Micropower is the manufacturer; MK-Controls Oy supplies the products.