Do you have a question about the Broadway Limited Charge-O-Matic and is the answer not in the manual?
The Charge-O-Matic™ is an intelligent timer designed to automate the power supply to various devices, particularly those requiring periodic charging or power cycles. Its primary function is to prevent overcharging and potential damage to batteries by ensuring devices are powered on for a set duration and then remain off for a specified interval. This makes it ideal for applications such as maintaining electric start backup generator batteries, powering infrequently used electronic devices, and managing power tools, among others.
A key usage feature of the Charge-O-Matic™ is its extended programmability compared to typical timers. While many conventional timers are limited to a 24-hour powered-on duration at 7-day intervals, the Charge-O-Matic™ allows for significantly longer powered-on periods, up to 99 hours, and offers flexible off-intervals ranging from 1 to 99 days. This broad range of settings addresses the common issue of users forgetting to manually charge and unplug devices, which often leads to battery damage or premature failure. For instance, if a generator battery requires charging for 24-48 hours once a month, users can set the Charge-O-Matic™ to power on for 48 hours and then remain off for 30 days. The device will then automatically repeat this cycle indefinitely, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
To set up the Charge-O-Matic™, users first plug it into a grounded electrical outlet in a dry location. The programming process involves two main steps, both controlled by intuitive knob presses and rotations. To set the "Power On Duration," users press the left knob, causing the numbers on both displays to flash, indicating that the values can be changed. The left knob is then rotated until the desired "on" time, between 1 and 99 hours, is shown on the left display. Similarly, to set the "Days Between On Cycles," users press the right knob, and then rotate it until the desired "off" time, between 1 and 99 days, is shown on the right display. The timer automatically exits programming mode after 5 seconds of inactivity, but users can re-enter it by pressing the respective knob again if more time is needed for adjustment.
Once programming is complete, the display numbers stop flashing, and the outlet turns on. A red light illuminates to indicate that the outlet is powered, while a green light under the hours display blinks, signifying that the "on" hours are elapsing. The hours display counts down until it reaches zero, at which point the timer powers off the outlet (the red light turns off). Subsequently, the green light under the days display blinks, indicating that the timer is counting down the days until the next power-on cycle. This visual feedback allows users to easily monitor the device's status and remaining time.
The Charge-O-Matic™ offers several convenient usage features. It is designed to run its program indefinitely, meaning it will continue its power cycles until it is either unplugged or manually powered off. For manual control, a "Start/Stop" button allows users to stop or power off the timer without unplugging it; all lights turn off when the device is off. Pressing the button once displays the settings, and pressing it a second time restarts the cycle. This feature provides flexibility for situations where immediate cessation of power is required.
In terms of maintenance and reliability, the Charge-O-Matic™ incorporates features to ensure continuous operation. If the device experiences a power outage, it remembers its programmed values and resumes from those values once power is restored, preventing any disruption to the set schedule. The display remains on at all times to show the remaining time and status, though it automatically dims shortly after power is activated, balancing visibility with energy efficiency.
While the Charge-O-Matic™ is primarily designed for charging applications, its versatility extends to any device within its output capacity that could benefit from periodic power cycles. Users are encouraged to explore creative uses beyond just charging. However, it is crucial to note a key maintenance and safety consideration: the Charge-O-Matic™ is designed for indoor use only and is not weatherproof. Therefore, it should not be located outdoors or in wet locations. If a device to be powered is outdoors, its cord must allow it to be connected to the Charge-O-Matic™ from an indoor location, with an appropriate drip loop employed to prevent water from traveling along the cord.
The device also supports plugging in a power strip or multi-USB device, allowing it to manage multiple devices simultaneously, further enhancing its utility. This feature is particularly useful for users with several small electronic devices that require periodic charging or power management. The Charge-O-Matic™ is a robust solution for automating power management, offering peace of mind and extending the lifespan of connected devices by preventing common issues associated with continuous power supply.
| Type | Timer |
|---|---|
| Model | Charge-O-Matic |
| Brand | Broadway Limited |
| Function | Battery Charger Timer |
| Power Supply | AC |
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