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Need help?Do you have a question about the BatteryMINDer SCC180 and is the answer not in the manual?
Essential conditions before charging or desulfating your battery.
Steps to test lead acid batteries with removable or manifold caps.
Steps to properly install and connect the Battery Condition Indicator.
How to use the BCI to test battery condition after charging.
Reminder for warranty registration and its benefits.
The BatteryMINDer® Model SCC180 is an instruction manual for a solar controller/charger/maintainer/desulfator with temperature sensing. This device is designed to manage and optimize the charging and maintenance of lead-acid batteries using solar panels. It ensures that batteries are not only fully charged but also maintained in optimal condition, extending their lifespan and preventing common issues like sulfation.
The primary function of the SCC180 is to act as a solar charge controller, regulating the power flow from solar panels to a connected battery. It is suitable for solar panels up to 200 Watts and voltages not exceeding 25 Volts. Beyond basic charging, the device incorporates advanced features for battery maintenance and reconditioning.
One of its key functions is "FULL-TIME DESULPHATION." Sulfation occurs when batteries sit for extended periods, causing sulfur from the electrolyte to form lead sulfuric crystals on the lead plates, which can significantly reduce battery capacity and lifespan. The SCC180 actively works to break down these crystals, restoring the battery's ability to accept and hold a charge. This desulfation process is continuous, ensuring that the battery remains in the best possible condition over time.
The device also includes temperature sensing capabilities (with an optional ABS-248 sensor). Temperature has a direct impact on battery life and charging efficiency. By sensing the battery's temperature, the SCC180 can adjust its charging and float voltages accordingly, preventing over or undercharging across a wide range of ambient conditions. This intelligent temperature compensation is crucial for maximizing battery performance and longevity, especially in environments with significant temperature fluctuations.
The SCC180 is designed to charge, maintain, and desulfate any size or type of 12-volt lead-acid battery, including sealed gel, AGM, deep cycle, marine, and maintenance-free electrolyte types. It is not intended to supply power to a low voltage electrical system other than in a starter-motor application, nor is it for charging dry-cell batteries.
The SCC180 is designed for user-friendly operation, with clear indicators for its status. It features three LED status indicators:
For optimal performance, the manual emphasizes the importance of proper battery preparation. Before connecting the SCC180, it is recommended to fully charge the battery with a high-power charger (5-10 Amp rated) and allow it to "rest" for 10 to 24 hours. A "rested" battery is one that has not been recharged or discharged for a minimum of 10 hours and has had no load attached. This ensures accurate assessment of the battery's condition and allows the SCC180 to work most effectively.
The device comes with a cord set for connecting to battery clamps or directly to terminals, with clear polarity indications (RED for positive, BLACK/BLUE for negative). The solar controller itself should be mounted in an easily visible area, protected from direct rainfall and bright sunlight, which could obscure the LED indicators. It is important that the controller is in the same general temperature environment as the battery(s) for accurate temperature sensing. The unit should always be mounted in a vertical position with cord sets exiting downward to ensure weather-tight integrity and long-term trouble-free life.
The SCC180 also includes a Battery Condition Indicator (BCI) as an auxiliary feature. This BCI provides a quick and accurate indication of the battery's state of charge and condition. Users can press a button on the BCI to see the battery's status:
These BCI readings are most accurate when taken after the battery has been fully charged and rested for at least 10 hours.
The SCC180 is designed to be a maintenance tool itself, actively working to prevent and reverse sulfation, which is a major cause of battery failure. By continuously desulfating and maintaining the battery at an optimal charge level, it significantly extends the battery's useful life.
The optional At-the-Battery Temperature Sensor (ABS-248) is a key maintenance feature. When installed, it allows the charger to provide precise voltage regulation based on the battery's actual temperature. This prevents thermal runaway in hot conditions and ensures adequate charging in cold conditions, both of which can damage the battery. The sensor should be connected to the positive (+) or negative (-) post of the battery for the most accurate temperature sensing. If direct attachment to the battery is not practical, it should be placed as close as possible to sense the ambient temperature the battery is exposed to.
The manual provides detailed tables for AGM, Gel, and Wet Cell charge and float voltages at various temperature ranges, highlighting the importance of temperature compensation for proper battery care. This information underscores the device's commitment to precise, temperature-adjusted charging, which is a critical aspect of long-term battery maintenance.
Users are advised to regularly check the battery's condition using the BCI and, if applicable, a hydrometer (for flooded batteries) to monitor specific gravity. If initial readings indicate a heavily sulfated battery (e.g., low specific gravity or voltage), it is recommended to first desulfate the battery with a 120 Vac input type charger-desulfator before relying solely on the solar charging system for reconditioning. Once properly desulfated, the SCC180 can effectively keep the battery desulfated and fully charged for years.
The device is built with safety in mind, including a fused lead (ATC-15 blade type 15 amp rated) on the positive lead of the battery connector. Users are explicitly warned not to bypass or replace this fuse with a higher-rated one, as it could lead to serious damage.
In summary, the BatteryMINDer® Model SCC180 is a sophisticated solar-powered device that goes beyond simple charging to provide comprehensive battery maintenance, desulfation, and temperature-compensated charging, all aimed at maximizing the lifespan and performance of lead-acid batteries.
General| Output Voltage | 12VDC |
|---|---|
| Charging Current | 1.8A |
| Temperature Compensation | Yes |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs |
| Desulfation Mode | Yes |
| Float Mode Maintenance | Yes |
| Charge Controller Type | Microprocessor controlled |
| Battery Type | AGM batteries |
| Charger Type | Smart Charger |
| Safety Features | Reverse polarity protection, short circuit protection |
