A
charge controller,
charge regulator or
battery regulator limits the rate at which
electric current is added to or drawn from electric
batteries. It prevents overcharging and may protect against
overvoltage, which can reduce battery performance or lifespan, and may pose a safety risk. It may also prevent completely draining ("deep discharging") a battery, or perform controlled discharges, depending on the battery technology, to protect battery life. The terms "charge controller" or "charge regulator" may refer to either a stand-alone device, or to control circuitry integrated within a battery pack, battery-powered device, or
battery charger.