Alkaline and bad cell detection in chargers - how does this work?

[Kiriakos GR]

Alkaline and bad cell detection in chargers - how does this work?

Not my self and neither AI, this can answer this question per your specific brand / model of the charger that you own.

Basic theory behind this function, the micro controller within the charger, this has been programed to perform a testing routine, and then to pass a judgment.

a) It is possible this to perform internal resistance measurement according to DCV method of evaluation.
Float battery voltage this is compared with battery voltage this be under a specific load.

b) For battery charger them not supporting refresh ( they are not capable for load testing), in these the micro controller, it performs an timed test, if charging current this is not decreasing, due battery cell voltage increase, within a fixed period of time, then this cell it is declared as damaged.     

Panasonic brand this came late, at distributing chargers with such micro controller and bad cell detection.
These chargers they claim be programed, them to detect with accuracy the condition of white Eneloop.
Their detection this offer even a warning status, when an white Eneloop this begins to decline from Panasonic own standards.
For us common mortals with electrical training, any electrical standard with unknown content and specifications, this is has equal value to a fart.

Panasonic this might trying under sincere motives, to offer an assistance to their own very loyal group of customers.

The Devil this always hide in the details, the best helping tool for us to decide if a battery this is at the end of life, this is us also owning and lesser smart charger.

I am using semi pro digital photography equipment of OLYMPUS Japan, for 25 years.
I own four digital cameras, three large ones these powered due 4xAA,  I have also OLYMPUS FL40 TTL, large flash gun 4xAA.
These equipment they are very capable to evaluate NiMH cells health, much sooner than any detection system over a charger.