A physically-configurable external charger device for an implantable medical device is disclosed, which facilitates the generation of different powers of a magnetic field but with reduced heating concerns at higher powers. The charger includes an electronics housing having control circuitry and a battery, and a coil housing having a charging coil. A cable connects these two housings. The two housings can be connected in a first physical configuration, and separated in a second physical configuration. In the first physical configuration, a low-power magnetic field can be produced, as the electronics housing is connected to the coil housing, and thus may heat to some degree. In a second physical configuration, the electronics housing is removed and extended from the coil housing, and thus a higher-power magnetic field can be produced with reduced heating concerns. Thus, in this second configuration, the charging rate of the IMD can be increased.
