Is this BK Precision PS suitable for chargers?

[trickybit]

I have one of these, from a previous life: http://www.elexp.com/tst_1670.htm
Cool lookin', ain't it?

From the specs, excerpt below, I conclude that I can't use the fixed 12V output section for a LiPo charger (500mA max), but can use the main output section, if I take care to set the voltage to 12V or whatever the charger requires.

I'd love any confirmation or caveats the community can provide. Also, the main output section has a variable current control, I have no idea whether I'll need to get the right setting for that, or just peg it and let the charger regulate the current.

For charger, I'm thinking along the lines of the DN or cellpro 4s or something like that. (2S lipos now, probably 3S this winter).

Thanks much.
Jim

Output Voltage
Main Output 0 to 30 VDC
Fixed 12VDC (+- 5%)
Fixed 5 VDC (+-5%)
Output Current
Main Output 0 to 3 A
Fixed 0-500 mA continuous
Fixed 0-500 mA continuous

[WayneBrown]

if you are only doing 450 sized batteries, it only has a 2.5A output. You will charge the 600 sized 6S batts at 4.9 or more Amps...
keep looking.

[trickybit]

Thanks, Wayne. Sounds like it will work for fine for the little stuff I'm using now and reasonable 450s.

If I get as far as a 600, saving $ on a PS will be the least of my problems...
Jim

[WayneBrown]

For what it's worth, I just spent 15 minutes and converted an old 450W Antec ATX PC power supply in the shop. 12V gives about 35A, I just ran charge on a pair of 6S batteries in series charging as 12S. Power supply didn't even get warm.
For the moment I have a jumper lead for a power switch, but the latch_on resistor wasn't needed.
I bought a 500W power supply for $40, you should be able to find an old PS for less.
here's the instructions: http://www.wikihow.com/Convert-a-Computer-ATX-Power-Supply-to-a-Lab-Power-Supply