The Honest Truth About the Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack
My existing setup for powering my Pulsar thermal imaging devices was starting to feel like a bottleneck. Constantly swapping batteries within the monocular or scope meant downtime during critical observation periods, and I found myself tethered to the device’s charging port. The need for a dedicated charging solution became glaringly apparent, especially during extended field use where every minute counts. After some searching, the Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack emerged as the most direct and, frankly, the only logical choice for my Pulsar APS2 and APS3 batteries. It promises to keep my optics powered up and ready, which is exactly what I needed to overcome the limitations of my previous charging routine.
When it arrived, the charger felt solid in hand, which is a good first impression for any piece of equipment I plan to rely on. The build quality seemed typical of Pulsar products – functional and no-nonsense. I briefly considered generic, third-party chargers, but the potential for compatibility issues and reduced charging efficiency with my specific Pulsar batteries quickly ruled them out. Ultimately, sticking with the manufacturer’s own charging solution felt like the safest bet for both battery health and reliable performance. The initial unboxing brought a sense of practical relief; this was a tool designed to solve a specific problem, and I was eager to see if it delivered.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack to the Test
My testing environment for this charger was primarily my workshop and the field. This meant it saw regular use on my workbench, keeping spare APS2 and APS3 battery packs topped off between excursions. I also had it with me on a recent multi-day nature observation trip, where it proved its worth in keeping my thermal monocular operational without interruption. The charger was exposed to the usual workshop dust and the occasional light dew in the field, conditions that many electronic accessories might struggle with, but this charger seemed unfazed.
Its operation was remarkably straightforward. There was no complicated setup or learning curve involved; I simply inserted the battery, plugged it in, and it started charging. This intuitive design meant I could focus on my primary tasks rather than fumbling with unfamiliar controls. The user feedback I’d seen online echoed this sentiment, noting its ease of use. One minor surprise was that the unit I received also included the necessary power cord, which wasn’t explicitly detailed in all product listings but was a welcome addition, ensuring I had everything needed to get started immediately.
First Use Experience
The initial experience of plugging in my first depleted APS battery was a moment of quiet satisfaction. I placed it into the charger, which clicked satisfyingly into place, and connected the power adapter. The indicator light immediately illuminated, confirming that charging was underway. This was a stark contrast to the previous method of charging the battery inside the device, which would render the optic unusable. The ability to charge batteries independently while still using my primary device was immediately liberating.
There were no hiccups or issues during this initial phase. The charger worked exactly as advertised, a refreshing change in a market often filled with products that underdeliver. It successfully charged a moderately depleted APS2 battery from empty to full within a reasonable timeframe, indicated by a change in the status light. This immediate, reliable performance set a positive tone for future uses.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack has proven itself to be a reliable workhorse. It has consistently charged both my APS2 and APS3 battery packs without any performance degradation. I’ve rotated through multiple batteries, and each has charged efficiently and reliably.
Durability has been excellent so far. The charger’s black finish shows no signs of scuffing or wear, even after being moved around my workshop and packed into my gear bag. The battery slots feel secure, and the charging contacts remain clean and functional, suggesting good long-term resilience. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe with a dry cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. I haven’t encountered any issues that would require more intensive cleaning or care.
Compared to some generic chargers I’ve used in the past for other electronics, this Pulsar unit feels significantly more robust and tailored to its specific battery types. It doesn’t suffer from the loose connections or inconsistent charging speeds that can plague cheaper alternatives. Its focused design for APS batteries makes it a superior choice for anyone invested in the Pulsar ecosystem.
Breaking Down the Features of Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack
Specifications
The Pulsar charger is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, focusing on its core task of charging Pulsar’s proprietary battery packs. It accepts an input voltage of 5V, making it compatible with a wide range of power sources, including standard USB power adapters and portable power banks. The output voltage is 4.2V, which is precisely what is needed to safely and effectively charge the APS 3 Li-ion Battery Pack and its predecessor, the APS2.
This specification of 5 input voltage is crucial because it allows for flexible charging options. Whether I’m at my desk with a wall adapter or out in the field with a USB power bank, I can keep my batteries ready. The 4.2 output voltage ensures the batteries are charged to their optimal capacity without overcharging, which is critical for the longevity of the Li-ion cells. The charger’s compact size and black finish make it discreet and easy to transport, blending in well with other electronic accessories without drawing unnecessary attention.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this charger is to replenish the power in Pulsar’s APS batteries, and it excels at this. It consistently delivers a full charge to both my APS2 and APS3 battery packs. The charging speed is quite respectable; a moderately depleted battery is usually ready to go within a few hours, minimizing downtime. This performance is essential for anyone who relies on their thermal optics for extended periods.
The charger’s main strength is its independent charging capability. This means it can charge one battery or two simultaneously, and it intelligently manages the charge for each. This feature significantly reduces the waiting time compared to charging batteries sequentially or within the device itself. Its functionality is exactly as advertised: it’s a charger, and it charges batteries very well.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Pulsar charger is purely functional, lacking any unnecessary frills. The black finish is practical and resists showing dirt or minor scuffs. The APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack slots are precisely molded to accept the batteries snugly, ensuring good contact without requiring excessive force.
Ergonomically, it’s simple: insert battery, connect power. There are no complex buttons or indicators beyond a basic charging status light. This lack of complexity is a major plus for a device meant for utilitarian use, especially in challenging environments. The compact form factor also means it doesn’t take up much space on a workbench or in a travel kit.
Durability & Maintenance
This charger feels built to last. The plastic construction is solid, and the battery contacts appear robust. While I haven’t subjected it to extreme abuse, it has withstood the rigors of regular use in my workshop and travel without any signs of wear or damage.
Maintenance is straightforward and involves little more than keeping it free of dust and debris. The open design of the battery slots allows for easy access for cleaning with a dry cloth or a gentle puff of compressed air. I haven’t experienced any issues that would suggest potential failure points, such as loose internal components or overheating, even after extended charging cycles.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack comes with its essential power cable, which is the only accessory one truly needs for its operation. There are no customization options for the charger itself; it is designed to work specifically with APS2 and APS3 batteries. This lack of customization is not a drawback, however, as its focused functionality is precisely what makes it effective.
It’s important to note that this charger is designed exclusively for Pulsar’s proprietary battery system. It will not accept or charge other types of batteries, nor can it be modified to do so. This specificity ensures optimal performance and safety for the intended Pulsar batteries.
Pros and Cons of Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack
Pros
- Charges two batteries independently: This is a game-changer for reducing downtime between observation sessions.
- Manufacturer-specific design: Ensures perfect compatibility and optimal charging for Pulsar APS batteries, safeguarding battery health.
- Simple and intuitive operation: No learning curve; just insert batteries and plug in.
- Compact and portable: Easy to carry in a kit bag or keep on a workbench without taking up much space.
- Reliable performance: Consistently charges batteries effectively and efficiently.
Cons
- Proprietary system: Only works with Pulsar APS2 and APS3 batteries, limiting its utility if you use other battery types.
- Basic functionality: While effective, it lacks advanced features like charge level indicators beyond basic status.
Who Should Buy Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack?
This charger is an absolute must-have for any owner of Pulsar digital or thermal optics that utilize the APS2 or APS3 battery packs. If you regularly use devices like Pulsar’s thermal monoculars or rifle scopes in the field or for extended periods, this charger will significantly improve your operational readiness. It’s ideal for professional wildlife observers, hunters, security personnel, or anyone who cannot afford to have their optics go down due to a depleted battery.
Anyone who does not own Pulsar devices with APS batteries should obviously skip this product, as it will be of no use to them. For Pulsar users, I would also strongly recommend pairing this charger with at least one, preferably two, spare APS battery packs. Having multiple charged batteries ready to go, thanks to this dual-charging unit, is the key to uninterrupted performance.
Conclusion on Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack
The Pulsar PL79165 Battery Charger APS APS2/APS3 Battery Pack is a highly effective and necessary accessory for anyone invested in Pulsar’s APS battery system. Its ability to charge two batteries independently, combined with its straightforward operation and reliable performance, makes it an indispensable tool for ensuring your thermal imaging devices are always ready. The build quality is solid, and its compact design makes it easy to integrate into any field kit or workshop setup.
For its price point of $55.99, the value it offers is substantial, especially when considering the frustration and downtime it eliminates. It directly addresses a core need for Pulsar users: consistent power. I wholeheartedly recommend this charger to any Pulsar user who relies on APS2 or APS3 batteries. It’s a small investment that pays significant dividends in operational efficiency and peace of mind.