How to Build a LIPO RC Battery Pack?
LiPo stands for Lithium Polymer batteries, which were originally developed for use in cell phones and laptops. However their light weight and durability has extended their use to RC (remote control ) enthusiasts, particularly those who fly model airplanes. LiPo batteries have an average output of 3.7-volts; model airplanes usually require more than one cell. Building a LiPo RC battery pack in series enables you to increase voltage based on the number of batteries you have in the battery pack. For example two LiPo batteries, wired in series, have an average output of 7.4-volts while four produces 14.8-volts. Wiring in series does not increase capacity, but since LiPo batteries are rechargeable, capacity does not present too much of a problem.
Calculate the voltage your RC model needs. You need to get as close as possible to the correct voltage. For example if your RC model needs 15 volts, you need four LiPo batteries. Do not build a LiPo battery pack that exceeds your RC model's voltage by more than one or two volts; otherwise, you will damage the motor. If the battery pack produces one or two volts less than your RC motor requires, it will not operate correctly.
Place the number of LiPo batteries you need to build a battery pack with the correct voltage for your RC model on a suitable flat surface. Each battery has clearly labeled positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
Label each battery with a number. If you are using four LiPo batteries, label them 1 through 4. Wrap tape around the batteries to hold them firmly together, ensuring that the way you build your battery pack enables the batteries to fit in your RC model. Electrical insulating tape works well, although you can find lighter weight tapes too.
Cut two strips of thin electrical wire (AWG 18 or similar) long enough to connect to your RC motor. Cut short wire strips to connect to the LiPo battery terminals. If you have four LiPo batteries you will need three short strips.
Remove ¼-inch of plastic from the end of each piece of wire using wire strippers or a small knife.
Attach a short piece of wire to the negative terminal of battery 1. If it doesn’t have a connector, use tape. Attach the opposite end to the positive terminal of battery 2.
Repeat the process (negative to positive) in numerical battery order until you reach the last battery. You have two LiPo battery terminals not connected: the positive terminal on battery 1 and the negative terminal on your last battery.
Attach one of the two pieces of remaining wire to the positive terminal of battery 1. Attach the last piece of wire to the last negative battery terminal.
Install your LiPo battery pack in your RC model, then connect the loose negative wire to the negative terminal of your RC motor and the loose positive wire to the positive terminal of your RC motor.