Matched capacity battery pack question

[micropv]

So going through some AA nimhs to create a few small packs, I am attempting to match as closely as possible reserve capacity using my BM200 charger/tester.  Just a quick question though, lets say I have a AA with a tested capacity of 1000mah, and another at 1200mah. Do I consider this a 1000mah capacity pack, or do I multiply the two and then divide by two for an average?

not a big deal, was just curious

Thanks

[DamonHD]

My assumption is that you have to work to the capacity of the weakest cell in a series set since you must not over-discharge that weakest one

Rgds

Damon

[dnix71]

Damon is correct. The weakest cell is the capacity of the pack. Overdischarge will reverse the polarity of the weakest cell and ruin it.

[micropv]

Thanks guys,

Kind of what I thought, always good to get others opinions.  Matching capacity is an incredibly slow process, I am not sure it is worth the effort really.

A set of 4 batteries purchased 3 years ago (factory advertised as 2100mah) and always used in a 4.8v configuration with many, many cycles now.


Started the charge/discharge/test function earlier this morning.


Thanks again