The DS2712 is designed for "loose" NiMH cells, where the battery pack midpoint is easily accessible. If the midpoint cannot be accessed, then a virtual midpoint can be created using an equally matched resistor divider as shown in the image below. There is a fast charge condition that may occur if the end-user is allowed to use loose cell batteries with the virtual midpoint configuration. For example, if the user places a fully charge battery (i.e. ~1.3V) and a discharged battery (~0.9V), then the total voltage will be 2.2V. The individual cell voltage measurement will read 1.1V per cell due to the virtual midpoint. This will place the charger into a fast charge state. Charging an empty NiMH battery with full charge current may degrade battery performance, but should not result in any immediate damage. All of this can be avoided if the user is only allowed to use a pack instead of individual loose cells.