By Lupdawg72 from California on 2/8/2008

I've had this charger for about two months now and am growing increasingly disatisfied with it. I use the batteries that come with this unit and have purchase two additional sets. My main uses are with my 580ex flash, wireless joystick and desk lights for when working at night. Bottom line, I don't believe this unit is properly charging the batteries to their full capacity. On my flash, the recycling time is poor at best, I have to recharge the batteries on my joystick at least once a week and my overhead desk lights maintain their brightness for five hours max. I'm considering a six to eight hour charger, thinking this will give a full, longer charge. This unit is great if you're pressed for time but is a hassel having to recharge too frequently.

By dbatesphoto from Huntsville, AL on 1/12/2007

I got one of these at the same time I got my new camera back in the summer and have been very satisfied with the charger and the batteries.

The batteries even when shooting with flash have never died during a shoot. Even when shooting well over 500 frames. Without using flash I have shot 7-800 frames easily without recharging. I regularly review images on the LCD of my camera and that does not even drain the power from these batteries.

The charger is fairly easy to use with ready light showing that it is getting power and in use. When charged the ready light goes out and few minutes later the fan will shut off automatically to keep from wearing them out.

My only dislike is it is a three part system consisting of the Charger, Plug and I guess the power regulator. The plug connects to the center piece which is a large 1x2x5 inch block which has a 1/8" diameter cable that plugs into the charger. I prefer this was all one or 2 sections as I expect this is most likely where something will go wrong and does take up some space. This does give you several feet of cable as well as a way to disconnect prior to changing out batteries so it is not a major problem.

I have never timed it, but it does seem to take right around 15 minutes give or take a few to charge a set of four from empty to full charge. The batteries do get a little warm after charging, but the built in fan keeps them and the charger both cooler than any over night charger I have used.

I plan on getting another so I can keep one in my bag and one at home.