The KickAss 20 AMP DC-DC Charger with MPPT Solar Controller (KADCDC20A-CAR) is a robust and versatile charging device designed for outdoor and proof gear applications. It functions as a 20 Amp DC-DC charger with an integrated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar controller, enabling efficient charging of auxiliary batteries from both an alternator and a solar panel.
Function Description:
The primary function of the KickAss 20 AMP DC-DC Charger is to charge an auxiliary battery in a vehicle, typically from the vehicle's alternator, while also allowing for charging from a solar panel. This dual input capability ensures that the auxiliary battery remains charged, providing power for various accessories and appliances when the vehicle is running or when stationary with solar input. The MPPT technology optimizes power harvest from solar panels, ensuring maximum efficiency even in varying light conditions.
The charger supports multiple battery types, including GEL, AGM, WET, CALCIUM, and Lithium LiFePO4, making it adaptable to a wide range of auxiliary battery setups. It features a multi-stage charging algorithm (Bulk, Absorption, Float) tailored to each battery type, which helps to prolong battery life and ensure optimal charging.
Key protective features are integrated to safeguard both the charger and the connected batteries. These include:
- Short circuit protection: Prevents damage if the batteries are incorrectly connected.
- Reverse polarity protection: Protects against damage from incorrect wiring.
- Over voltage protection: Shuts down if input or output voltages are too high.
- Over temperature protection: Reduces output current if the unit overheats.
- Temperature compensation: Adjusts charging parameters based on battery temperature to prevent overcharging or undercharging.
The device also incorporates a "Solar Priority" feature, allowing users to prioritize solar charging over alternator charging, which can be beneficial for energy management and reducing strain on the vehicle's alternator.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Charger Model: KADCDC20A-CAR
- Alternator Input Voltage Range: 9-32V DC
- Input Current: <20mA
- Efficiency: App. 93%
- Max Output Current: Input 5-32V DC 20A
- Minimum Auxiliary Battery Voltage: WET, GEL, AGM, CAL, 9V LiFePO4 0V
- Input Fuse Rating: 50A
- Output Fuse Rating: 50A
- Maximum Output Power: 300W
- Solar Panel Input Voltage: 10-32V DC
- Solar Input Maximum Current: 27A
- Ambient Operating Temperature: -20 deg C to +80 deg C
- Dimensions: 15112144mm
- Weight: 870g
- Battery Types: WET, GEL, AGM, CAL, LiFePO4
- Battery Capacity Range: 80-500Ah (for WET, GEL, AGM, CAL) / 50-500Ah (for LiFePO4)
- Integrated Isolator (cut in / cut out voltage): Varies by battery type (e.g., WET: Cut In 13.2V / Cut Out 12.6V; LiFePO4: Cut In 26.4V / Cut Out 25.2V)
- Integrated Isolator (ignition override on): Varies by battery type (e.g., WET: Cut In 12.2V / Cut Out 10.5V; LiFePO4: Cut In 24.4V / Cut Out 21.8V)
- Time Delay Function: 30 seconds delay before the charger will cut in or out.
- Certifications: CE
- IP Rating: IP66 (dust tight and protected against powerful water jets)
Usage Features:
The KickAss 20 AMP DC-DC Charger is designed for ease of use with clear LED indicators and simple button controls.
- Battery Type Selection: Users can select the appropriate battery type (GEL, AGM, WET, CALCIUM, or LiFePO4) by pressing and holding the "Mode" button for 2-4 seconds. The corresponding LED will illuminate, and the setting will be saved.
- Solar Priority Setting: The "Solar Priority" button allows users to prioritize solar charging. Pressing and holding this button for 2-4 seconds will toggle the solar priority setting, which is then saved.
- LED Indicators:
- Alternator LED (green): Indicates active alternator input.
- Solar LED (green): Indicates active solar input.
- Battery Type LEDs (WET, GEL, AGM, CAL, LiFePO4 - green): Show the currently selected battery type.
- Charging Stage LEDs (BULK, ABSORPTION, FLOAT - green): Indicate the current charging stage.
- Fault LED (red): Illuminates to signal a fault condition.
- Standby Mode: The charger enters standby mode when no inputs are detected or when the detectable voltage range is not met.
- Lithium BMS Sleep & Recovery Feature: For lithium batteries, the charger can recover batteries from a "sleep" mode (low voltage state) by providing a low current charge. This feature helps to reactivate the battery if it has been disconnected by its Battery Management System (BMS) due to overcharging, over-discharging, or extreme temperatures.
- Mounting: The charger is designed to be mounted close to the auxiliary battery and away from sources of heat, such as turbos and exhaust pipes, to ensure maximum performance. Mounting slots are provided for easy installation.
Maintenance Features:
While the manual does not explicitly detail routine maintenance, it emphasizes preventative measures and troubleshooting to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the device.
- Wiring: Proper wiring is crucial. The manual provides recommended cable sizes for alternator output, solar input, output, common ground, ignition override, and external LED indicator connections. It stresses the importance of using correct wire gauges and crimping/soldering terminals securely.
- Fusing: The installation guide recommends fitting a 50-75 amp fuse on both the input and output sides of the charger to protect against overcurrents and short circuits. For solar input, a maximum of 27 Amp fuse is recommended.
- Ventilation: Ensuring good ventilation around the battery is important to allow charging gases to dissipate, especially for lead-acid batteries.
- Cabling: All cabling should be secure and free from cuts, broken, or short circuits.
- Medical Advice: In case of battery acid contact with skin or eyes, medical advice should be sought immediately.
- Troubleshooting: The manual includes detailed fault codes and a troubleshooting table to help users diagnose and resolve common issues based on the LED indicators. This includes scenarios like over voltage, low voltage, and over temperature, providing recommended actions such as checking wiring, battery voltage, and ventilation.
- Firmware Updates and Support: KickAss constantly updates FAQs, troubleshooting guides, videos, and specifications, encouraging users to visit their website (kickassproducts.com.au) for the most up-to-date information and assistance.
The KickAss 20 AMP DC-DC Charger with MPPT Solar Controller is a comprehensive solution for managing auxiliary battery charging in various vehicle and outdoor setups, offering reliability, safety, and adaptability across different battery technologies.
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