The Canon EOS 200D, also known as the Rebel SL2 in some regions, is a fantastic entry-level DSLR camera known for its compact size and impressive image quality. One of the most fundamental aspects of using any camera, of course, is keeping it powered. This guide will walk you through the process of charging your Canon EOS 200D battery, covering everything from identifying the correct battery and charger to troubleshooting common charging problems.
Understanding The Battery And Charger
Before you can even think about charging your Canon EOS 200D, it’s crucial to understand the battery and charger that come with it. Using the correct equipment is essential for the safety of your camera and the longevity of your battery.
Identifying The Canon LP-E17 Battery
The Canon EOS 200D uses the Canon LP-E17 lithium-ion battery. This battery is specifically designed for a range of Canon cameras, including the EOS 200D. Attempting to use a different battery can potentially damage your camera and may even be dangerous. The LP-E17 is a rechargeable battery, and when fully charged, allows you to take hundreds of photos or record a significant amount of video. Always check the battery model before inserting it into the camera or charger.
Look for the “LP-E17” marking printed directly on the battery itself. You’ll typically find this information alongside other important details like voltage and capacity.
Recognizing The LC-E17 Charger
The designated charger for the LP-E17 battery is the Canon LC-E17 battery charger. This charger is designed to provide the correct voltage and current to safely and efficiently charge the battery. Using a third-party charger is generally not recommended, as it might not adhere to Canon’s safety standards and could potentially damage the battery or even the camera. The LC-E17 charger is specifically designed for the LP-E17 battery.
Like the battery, the charger should also have a model number printed on it, typically on the underside or the side. Always verify that you are using the LC-E17 charger.
Step-by-Step Charging Instructions
Now that you’ve identified the correct battery and charger, let’s go through the step-by-step process of charging your Canon EOS 200D battery.
Removing The Battery From The Camera
The first step is, naturally, removing the battery from the camera. This is a simple process but should be done carefully to avoid damaging the camera or the battery.
First, ensure the camera is turned off. Locate the battery compartment door, usually on the bottom of the camera grip. There will typically be a latch or a sliding switch that you need to operate to open the door. Once the door is open, you’ll see the battery inside.
There’s usually a small orange or red lever that locks the battery in place. Gently push this lever to the side – this will release the battery. The battery might pop out slightly, or you may need to gently tap the camera to dislodge it. Never force the battery out of the compartment.
Inserting The Battery Into The Charger
With the battery removed, you can now insert it into the LC-E17 charger. Note that the LP-E17 battery only fits into the charger in one orientation. Look for the small alignment indicators on both the battery and the charger. These indicators will help you orient the battery correctly.
Gently slide the battery into the charger until it clicks into place. Never force the battery into the charger; if it doesn’t slide in easily, double-check the alignment.
Connecting The Charger To A Power Source
Once the battery is securely in the charger, you can connect the charger to a power source. The LC-E17 charger typically has a built-in plug that can be directly inserted into a standard wall outlet.
Plug the charger into a working electrical outlet. Ensure that the voltage of the outlet matches the voltage requirements of the charger. This information is usually printed on the charger itself. Using the wrong voltage can damage the charger and potentially cause a fire.
Understanding The Charger Indicator Light
Once the charger is plugged in and connected to the battery, the charger’s indicator light will illuminate. This light provides information about the charging status of the battery.
Typically, a solid orange or red light indicates that the battery is currently charging. When the battery is fully charged, the light will usually turn green. Some chargers might have a blinking light to indicate a problem, such as a faulty battery or a connection issue. Refer to the charger’s manual for specific information about the indicator light’s meaning.
Charging Time
The amount of time it takes to fully charge the LP-E17 battery depends on the battery’s current charge level. A completely depleted battery will take longer to charge than one that is partially charged.
Generally, it takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge a depleted LP-E17 battery using the LC-E17 charger. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual charging time may vary slightly.
Removing The Battery From The Charger
Once the indicator light turns green, indicating that the battery is fully charged, you can remove the battery from the charger.
Unplug the charger from the power outlet first. Then, gently press the release button (if there is one) on the charger and slide the battery out. Avoid yanking or pulling on the battery.
Reinserting The Battery Into The Camera
Now that the battery is fully charged, you can reinsert it into the camera.
Turn the camera off. Open the battery compartment door as before. Align the battery with the compartment, making sure the contacts are facing the correct direction. Gently slide the battery into the compartment until it clicks into place. Secure the battery by pushing the locking lever back into its original position. Close the battery compartment door.
Your Canon EOS 200D is now ready to use!
Troubleshooting Common Charging Problems
Even with the best equipment and careful attention, charging problems can sometimes occur. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them.
The Charger Indicator Light Doesn’t Turn On
If the charger indicator light doesn’t turn on when you plug in the charger, there are several possible causes.
First, check the power outlet to make sure it’s working. Plug another device into the outlet to verify that it’s providing power.
Next, check the connection between the charger and the power cord (if applicable). Ensure that the cord is securely plugged into both the charger and the wall outlet.
If the outlet and the connection are good, the problem might be with the charger itself. Try using a different charger (if you have one) to see if that resolves the issue. If the charger is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
The Charger Indicator Light Blinks
A blinking charger indicator light usually indicates a problem with the charging process. The specific meaning of the blinking light can vary depending on the charger model, so consult the charger’s manual for more information.
Common causes of a blinking light include a faulty battery, a poor connection between the battery and the charger, or an incompatible battery.
Try removing the battery from the charger and cleaning the contacts on both the battery and the charger with a dry cloth. Then, reinsert the battery and try charging again. If the problem persists, the battery may be faulty and need to be replaced.
The Battery Isn’t Charging
If the charger indicator light is on but the battery isn’t charging (i.e., the battery level remains low even after several hours of charging), there are a few possible explanations.
The battery might be old or damaged. Lithium-ion batteries have a limited lifespan, and their capacity can decrease over time. If the battery is several years old or has been heavily used, it might need to be replaced.
Also, check the battery contacts for any dirt or corrosion. Clean the contacts with a dry cloth.
The Camera Doesn’t Recognize The Battery
Sometimes, the camera might not recognize a fully charged battery. This can be caused by several factors.
First, ensure that the battery is fully inserted into the camera and that the battery compartment door is securely closed.
Second, check the battery contacts for any dirt or corrosion. Clean the contacts with a dry cloth.
Third, the battery might be incompatible with the camera. Although the LP-E17 battery is designed for the EOS 200D, there might be counterfeit or third-party batteries that are not fully compatible. Always use genuine Canon batteries for best performance and safety.
Tips For Extending Battery Life
Proper charging habits, and appropriate camera use can help you extend the life of your LP-E17 and allow for more shooting before needing to recharge.
Avoid Fully Discharging The Battery
Lithium-ion batteries perform best when they are not fully discharged. Try to avoid letting the battery completely drain before recharging it. It’s better to charge the battery more frequently, even if it’s only partially discharged.
Store The Battery Properly
When you’re not using the camera for an extended period, store the battery in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing the battery in direct sunlight or in extremely hot or cold temperatures.
It’s also a good idea to store the battery at around 40-50% charge. This helps to preserve the battery’s capacity over time.
Turn Off Unnecessary Features
Certain camera features can drain the battery more quickly. Turn off features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS when you’re not using them. These features consume power even when the camera is idle.
Also, reduce the brightness of the LCD screen and minimize the use of the flash.
Use The Viewfinder Instead Of The LCD Screen
The LCD screen consumes a significant amount of power. When possible, use the viewfinder to compose your shots instead of the LCD screen.
Reduce Image Review Time
Limit the amount of time you spend reviewing images on the LCD screen. The longer the screen is on, the more power it consumes. Adjust the review time setting in the camera’s menu to minimize the amount of time each image is displayed.
Safety Precautions
Charging lithium-ion batteries requires certain precautions to ensure safety.
- Only use the designated charger: Always use the Canon LC-E17 charger specifically designed for the LP-E17 battery.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not charge the battery in extremely hot or cold environments.
- Do not overcharge: While the charger is designed to stop charging when the battery is full, it’s still a good practice to remove the battery from the charger once it’s fully charged.
- Inspect the battery and charger: Regularly inspect the battery and charger for any signs of damage. If you notice any damage, such as cracks or swelling, discontinue use and replace the battery or charger.
- Dispose of properly: Dispose of used lithium-ion batteries properly. Do not throw them in the trash. Recycle them at a designated recycling center.
By following these safety precautions, you can ensure that you charge your Canon EOS 200D battery safely and effectively.
FAQ 1: What Are The Different Ways To Charge The Battery For My Canon EOS 200D?
You can charge your Canon EOS 200D battery using primarily two methods. The most common and recommended way is to use the dedicated battery charger, usually the Canon LC-E17. This charger plugs into a standard wall outlet and provides a controlled charging environment specifically designed for Canon batteries, ensuring optimal charging and battery health. The provided indicator light will inform you of the charging progress, switching from orange to green when fully charged.
Another charging option, while less common for this camera, involves using a compatible USB cable connected to a power source. Some third-party options or accessories might offer USB charging directly through the camera’s USB port. However, it is crucial to confirm compatibility and safety before attempting this method, as using incompatible chargers can potentially damage the battery or the camera. Always prioritize using the recommended battery charger for safe and efficient charging.
FAQ 2: How Long Does It Take To Fully Charge The Canon EOS 200D Battery Using The Dedicated Charger?
The typical charging time for a fully depleted Canon LP-E17 battery, when using the Canon LC-E17 charger, is approximately 2 hours. This duration can vary slightly depending on the battery’s age and condition, as well as the ambient temperature. It’s best to allow the battery to charge uninterrupted until the charger’s indicator light turns green, signaling a full charge.
Keep in mind that partially charging the battery is perfectly acceptable and won’t necessarily harm its lifespan. Modern lithium-ion batteries, like the LP-E17, do not suffer from the “memory effect” that older battery types experienced. Therefore, you can top up the charge as needed without worrying about degrading the battery’s capacity.
FAQ 3: Can I Use A Third-party Battery Charger For My Canon EOS 200D Battery?
While using a third-party battery charger for your Canon EOS 200D battery is possible, it’s crucial to exercise caution and choose reputable brands known for quality and safety standards. Inexpensive or unbranded chargers may not provide the correct voltage or current, potentially damaging the battery or even posing a fire hazard. Look for chargers specifically designed for the Canon LP-E17 battery.
Before using any third-party charger, carefully inspect it for safety certifications and read user reviews. A reputable charger will have built-in protection against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. Always prioritize safety and consider the potential risks before using a non-Canon charger for your camera’s battery.
FAQ 4: How Do I Know When The Battery Is Fully Charged?
The Canon LC-E17 battery charger features an indicator light that provides visual feedback on the charging status. During the charging process, the indicator light will typically be orange (or amber) to indicate that the battery is actively charging. This light will usually blink or remain solid orange depending on the specific model of the charger.
Once the battery is fully charged, the indicator light will change from orange to green. This green light signifies that the charging cycle is complete, and the battery is ready for use. It’s recommended to unplug the charger after the battery is fully charged to conserve energy and potentially prolong the charger’s lifespan.
FAQ 5: What Is The Typical Battery Life Of The Canon EOS 200D?
The battery life of the Canon EOS 200D, using the LP-E17 battery, is typically rated at around 650 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. This number represents an average based on specific testing conditions and may vary depending on your shooting habits. Factors like using the LCD screen extensively, frequent flash use, and shooting videos will all significantly impact battery life.
To maximize battery life, consider turning off the LCD screen when not actively composing shots, reducing the brightness of the screen, and minimizing the use of the flash. Carrying a spare battery is always a good idea, especially if you plan on shooting for extended periods or in situations where you won’t have access to a power outlet.
FAQ 6: Can I Charge The Battery Inside The Camera Using A USB Cable?
While some cameras offer the convenience of charging the battery directly inside the camera via USB, the Canon EOS 200D is not designed for this functionality. The camera does have a USB port, but it is primarily intended for transferring images and videos to a computer, and for firmware updates.
Attempting to charge the battery via USB might not work and could potentially damage the camera or the battery. Therefore, it is highly recommended to use the dedicated battery charger (Canon LC-E17) as the primary method for charging the LP-E17 battery. This ensures proper charging and avoids any potential risks associated with unsupported charging methods.
FAQ 7: How Should I Store My Canon EOS 200D Battery When Not In Use For Extended Periods?
When storing your Canon EOS 200D battery (LP-E17) for an extended period, it’s best to store it at around 40-60% charge. Fully charging or fully discharging the battery before storage can negatively impact its long-term health. A partial charge helps to maintain the battery’s internal chemistry and prevents excessive degradation.
Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing it in a humid environment or near sources of heat. If possible, store the battery in a dedicated battery case or pouch to protect it from physical damage. Periodically check the battery’s charge level during long-term storage and top it off if it drops below 20%.