What Does RC Mean on a Battery?

Have you ever wondered what does RC mean on a battery? If you’re into remote-controlled vehicles, you might have come across this term before.

RC stands for “Reserve Capacity”, which is the amount of time a battery can sustain a minimum load of 25 amperes before its voltage drops below 10.5 volts. This measurement is crucial for applications that require a reliable power source for a prolonged period.

What does 160 RC mean on a battery?

When you see 160 RC on a battery, it means that the battery can sustain a minimum load of 25 amperes for 160 minutes before its voltage drops below 10.5 volts. This measurement is usually found on deep cycle batteries, which are commonly used in boats and RVs.

What does 140 RC mean on a battery?

If you see 140 RC on a battery, it means that the battery can sustain a minimum load of 25 amperes for 140 minutes before its voltage drops below 10.5 volts. This measurement is often found on automotive batteries, which are designed to provide a burst of power to start the engine.

What does MCA and RC mean on a battery?

MCA stands for “Marine Cranking Amps“, which is the amount of current a battery can deliver for 30 seconds at 32°F (0°C) before its voltage drops below 7.2 volts. This measurement is commonly found on marine batteries, which are designed to start boat engines.

RC, on the other hand, stands for “Reserve Capacity”, as explained earlier. Both MCA and RC are important measurements for marine batteries, as they need to be able to provide a burst of power to start the engine and a sustained power source for onboard electronics.

What is a good battery reserve capacity?

The ideal reserve capacity for a battery depends on its intended use. For example, a deep cycle battery used in an RV might have a reserve capacity of 200 RC or more, while an automotive battery might have a reserve capacity of 90 RC or less.

Generally, a good reserve capacity for a battery is one that can sustain a minimum load for at least 90 minutes. This ensures that the battery can provide reliable power for a prolonged period, without the risk of its voltage dropping below a critical level.

In conclusion, RC is an important measurement for batteries and is crucial for applications that require a reliable power source for a prolonged period. When choosing a battery, it’s essential to consider its reserve capacity and ensure that it meets the requirements of its intended use.

About the author, Phil Borges

Phil Borges is a battery aficionado. He's written extensively about batteries, and he loves nothing more than discussing the latest innovations in the industry. He has a deep understanding of how batteries work, and he's always on the lookout for new ways to improve their performance.