ORIGINAL: JPMacG
I use the timer method and have had good results. I use the wall wart charger that came with my transmitter set the timer for one hour on per day. Arguably, this should be kinder to your packs than using a peak detect charger.
This is discussed in detail here:
http://www.hangtimes.com/keeping_your_packs_ready.html
Glad you said "Arguably", putting in unwanted voltage to any battery is questionable. No matter how you set the timer, there is ether a under charge or over charge condition . Any over charging is producing heat and its not good for the battery.
A peek charger is going to stop charging at a small level below full charge.
at least that is the way I understand the peek chargers.
sticks