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Explains signal words (Warning, Caution, Notice) indicating hazard levels.
Details hazards when working near lead-acid batteries and essential precautions.
Provides essential advice for personal safety when handling batteries.
Lists critical recommendations for installation, battery compatibility, and fuse usage.
Explains the Smart Start SBI's role in managing start and auxiliary batteries.
Provides instructions on secure and appropriate placement of the SBI unit.
Lists recommended REDARC fuse kits for system protection.
Details recommended cable sizes and torque for different models and lengths.
Illustrates the primary wiring connections for the SBI unit.
Provides a step-by-step guide for connecting the SBI to vehicle batteries.
Explains how to connect an indicator LED for status monitoring.
Details the procedure for manual operation via a push button.
Shows wiring for models with dual battery sensing capabilities.
Explains LED flash patterns for diagnosing faults like over-voltage or voltage drop.
Guides users on verifying the SBI's functionality after installation.
Answers common queries regarding LED behavior, voltage spikes, and usage.
Lists key technical data including voltage, current, dimensions, and warranty.
Provides contact information for technical support across different regions.
Explains signal words (Warning, Caution, Notice) indicating hazard levels.
Details hazards when working near lead-acid batteries and essential precautions.
Provides essential advice for personal safety when handling batteries.
Lists critical recommendations for installation, battery compatibility, and fuse usage.
Explains the Smart Start SBI's role in managing start and auxiliary batteries.
Provides instructions on secure and appropriate placement of the SBI unit.
Lists recommended REDARC fuse kits for system protection.
Details recommended cable sizes and torque for different models and lengths.
Illustrates the primary wiring connections for the SBI unit.
Provides a step-by-step guide for connecting the SBI to vehicle batteries.
Explains how to connect an indicator LED for status monitoring.
Details the procedure for manual operation via a push button.
Shows wiring for models with dual battery sensing capabilities.
Explains LED flash patterns for diagnosing faults like over-voltage or voltage drop.
Guides users on verifying the SBI's functionality after installation.
Answers common queries regarding LED behavior, voltage spikes, and usage.
Lists key technical data including voltage, current, dimensions, and warranty.
Provides contact information for technical support across different regions.
The REDARC Smart Start® SBI is a microprocessor-controlled smart battery isolator designed for multi-battery applications, functioning as a solenoid priority system. Its primary purpose is to protect the start battery from excessive discharge by auxiliary loads while ensuring that the auxiliary battery can still power non-essential loads. Essentially, once the start battery receives sufficient charge from the alternator, the Smart Start® SBI connects an auxiliary battery to the charging circuit. Conversely, if the start battery voltage drops too low, the Smart Start® SBI disconnects any auxiliary batteries or loads from the start battery to conserve charge.
The Smart Start® SBI is engineered to manage the charging of multiple batteries in a vehicle, ensuring that the primary start battery always has enough power to start the engine. It operates by monitoring the voltage of the start battery. When the start battery reaches a predetermined "ON Volts" level (e.g., 13.2V for 12V systems), indicating it has received sufficient charge, the isolator activates, connecting the auxiliary battery to the charging circuit. This allows the alternator to charge both batteries simultaneously. When the engine is turned off or the start battery voltage drops below a specified "OFF Volts" level (e.g., 12.6V for 12V systems), the isolator disconnects the auxiliary battery, preventing auxiliary loads from draining the start battery.
Dual-sensing models (indicated by a 'D' in the model number, e.g., SBI12D) offer enhanced functionality by monitoring both the start battery and the auxiliary battery. If either battery exceeds the "ON Volts" threshold, the isolator will connect. This dual control is particularly beneficial for scenarios where the auxiliary battery might be charged by an external source like a solar panel or battery charger, allowing that charge to flow to the main battery as well. The SBI12D, for instance, specifically allows charge to flow in both directions.
The Smart Start® SBI is designed for straightforward installation and operation. It should be mounted securely in a convenient location near the start battery bank, avoiding direct engine heat. Proper cable sizing is crucial for optimal performance, and REDARC provides a cable sizing table to guide users in selecting appropriate wire lengths and gauges based on the model and desired features (e.g., with or without pushbutton override).
For safety and system protection, fuses or circuit breakers of appropriate ratings must be installed as close as possible to the battery terminals. REDARC recommends using their fuse kits, which include high-quality, reliable fuses and fuse holders. It is critical to ensure that all battery connections are properly grounded to the vehicle chassis and that the SBI ground wire makes good contact with the chassis ground point. Incorrect grounding can affect the isolator's switching voltage.
The device includes an LED indicator that provides visual feedback on its status. A solid red LED indicates that the solenoid is activated, and both batteries are connected and charging. A flashing red LED, however, signals a fault condition.
The Smart Start® SBI is designed for reliability, but proper maintenance of the battery system it manages is essential for optimal performance. This includes regularly checking battery water and specific gravity levels, as recommended by battery manufacturers.
The device incorporates several safety and fault detection mechanisms:
After installation, users should perform a simple check to ensure the SBI is operating correctly:
It's important to note that the time it takes for the battery voltage to drop low enough for the solenoid to turn off can vary depending on the battery's condition, age, and state of charge. For a new, fully charged battery, this process might take several days. The LED may also stay on for a period after the vehicle is turned off, which is not a fault, but rather an indication that the batteries are still linked until the voltage drops to the specified "OFF Volts" level.
The Smart Start® SBI is designed to be robust and reliable, backed by a 2-year warranty. It complies with various international standards, including CE, C-Tick, and AS/NZS CISPR11:2004.
General| Type | Battery Isolator |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12V |
| Continuous Current Rating | 100A |
| Standby Current Draw | <5mA |
| Protection Features | Over-voltage protection, surge protection |
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