Charger for EF-Johnson 5100 ES Single Bay In-Vehicle Rapid - Fast

In this review of the Charger for EF-Johnson 5100 ES Single Bay In-Vehicle Rapid, the bottom line is simple: this is for users who need a dependable, vehicle-mounted fast charger that handles the radio or the battery alone. The reviewer found the unit especially useful for first responders, field technicians, and fleet vehicles because it supplies rapid charging from a 12V or 24V outlet and accepts multiple battery chemistries. Its single-bay design is compact and purpose-built, and the included adapter pod and mounting hardware make installation straightforward for in-vehicle use.

Key Features

• Single-bay rapid charging: Provides a dedicated drop-in bay that charges the EF-Johnson 5100 ES radio or battery quickly while on the move.
• Vehicle power adapter: The included 12V/24V vehicle adapter supplies power directly from a vehicle outlet for uninterrupted charging during shifts.
• Adapter pod included: The adjustable adapter pod and tie-down strap let the charger secure and charge different battery sizes and the radio itself.
• Quad-chemistry compatibility: Supports Ni-CD, Ni-MH, Li-Ion and Li-Polymer batteries, removing the need for separate chargers for different packs.
• Durable build and mount kit: The mounting bracket and strap make it suitable for repeated use in vehicles, helping keep the radio ready and accessible.

Who It's For

This charger is aimed at professionals who operate EF-Johnson 5100 ES radios in vehicles: police, fire, EMS, security teams, and utility crews who need reliable on-the-go charging. The in-vehicle rapid capability means radios can be kept at operational readiness between calls without returning to a central charger.

It is not the best choice for someone who needs multi-unit desktop charging or a home bench charger for many radios at once; fleet or station bulk charging will still require multi-bay systems. Casual users who never charge in a vehicle may prefer a standard drop-in charger instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable in-vehicle power with a 12V/24V adapter for field use.
• Adapter pod and strap provide flexible fit for the radio or standalone battery.
• Quad-chemistry support simplifies management of Ni-CD, Ni-MH, Li-Ion and Li-Polymer packs.

Cons

• Single bay limits simultaneous charging to one radio or battery at a time, which may not suit large fleets.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Charger for EF-Johnson 5100 ES Single Bay In-Vehicle Rapid is a solid, purpose-built option for anyone who needs dependable, fast charging inside a vehicle. Its quad-chemistry compatibility and included adapter pod deliver flexibility, and the 12V/24V adapter makes it a practical choice for field professionals. It represents good value for those who prioritize mobility and reliability over multi-unit charging capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge the radio installed in a vehicle mount?
Yes, the drop-in charger accepts the EF-Johnson 5100 ES radio with or without the radio attached, using the adapter pod as needed.

Does it work with different battery chemistries?
Yes, the charger supports Ni-CD, Ni-MH, Li-Ion and Li-Polymer batteries for broad compatibility.

Is a warranty included?
Yes, the product includes a 12 month warranty backed by the manufacturer.