Where Can I Find the Right Specs for a Battery Pack for Laser Tag Vests?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the specifications and components needed for building a custom battery pack for laser tag vests, specifically focusing on the type of resistor or thermistor used in the existing pack and the implications of replacing it.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes the existing battery pack configuration and expresses uncertainty about a component that appears to be a resistor.
  • Another participant suggests that the component is likely a fuse rather than a resistor, emphasizing safety concerns.
  • A different participant proposes that the component is a thermistor used for monitoring battery temperature during charging.
  • There is a discussion about the importance of knowing the cold resistance of the thermistor for replacement purposes, along with methods to measure it.
  • A participant inquires about the potential downsides of using the wrong thermistor and seeks advice on estimating the appropriate type.
  • One suggestion includes checking electronic supply houses for compatible battery packs and components.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have differing views on the nature of the component in question, with some supporting the idea of it being a thermistor and others suggesting it could be a fuse. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact specifications needed for replacement.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the component's function and the specific characteristics required for replacement. The discussion does not resolve the exact specifications or safety considerations involved in using alternative components.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in DIY electronics, particularly those working with battery packs for applications like laser tag or similar devices.

ztekneq
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I work at a local entertainment venue and wanted to experiment by building my own pack for current laser tag vests. The manuf charge us a FORTUNE!

So the specs are 6 NiMh 3800mah 1.2V 4/3 Panasonic 370a's wired in a block series

there is a small resistor (i think) on the lead but I cannot make out what its specs are..this is where i need some help. What do you guys think it might be?
 
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It's unlikely to be a resistor that would just waste heat, it's more likely to be a fuse which is a good idea if you are strapping the batteries to your body.
 
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k

quite possible... looked like it might have had bands like a resistor though...

its not on the lead to the connector so to say.. there is a wire (small) soldered to the first positive cap in the series drops down next to the battery and is then connected to the middle lead of the three lead series

http://www.tekneq-design.com/battery.jpg
 

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In that case it's probably a thermistor to monitor temperature of the battery while charging.
A common way to charge NiCd/NiMH is to turn up the charging current until it starts to get hot and then back off a little.
If you aren't worrried about charging speed it is better/safer to just charge for 10-12 hours at 10% of the battery capacity.
 
is there any specifications that one would need to replace such a part?
 
You would need to know it's cold resistance which you can measure with a meter, you could estimate the temperature coefficient by putting in warm water and then measuring it's resistance again.
But like I said, it's easier/safer to just trickle charge the batteries, quick charging home made battery packs is a bit dangerous to the battery and you!
 
It is exactly a thermistor! I am actually duplicating an existing pack. What would be the downfalls of hooking in the wrong thermistor? I have an existing intelligent charger that is being used as well. Is there anyway to estimate what thermistor should be used?
 
You might want to try some electonic supply houses.
For instance, Radio Shack sell a 6 cell nicad pack for RC cars with charger for about $20.
They also sell connector adaptors.
 

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