This is a simple circuit to charge a 7.2V NiCad battery in around 5 hours at 1/4 the cell capacity rate.
The charging current on my prototype was around 300mA.
The LED in the circuit comes on when a battery ic connected to indicate that charging is in progress.
In the schematics I have shown Wago screw clamps for all power connections, you can use normal PCB holes.

Warning

This circuit has a 230V AC mains transformer. Only build this circuit if you are competent with AC mains powered equipment and the dangers involved.

Click the above image for a full schematic.

By Ian Stedman, 27th August 2003

Updated 02 May 2011