The SEC America Corp. Model 384 is a high-power DC-DC down converter designed for robust performance in various applications, particularly in vehicles, due to its ability to withstand harsh vibration and shock conditions. This owner's manual provides comprehensive instructions for installation, operation, internal adjustments, and warranty information, ensuring proper use and longevity of the device.
Function Description:
The Model 384 serves as a DC-DC converter, taking a wide range of input DC voltage (22V-60V) and converting it to a stable output DC voltage of 13.6V. Its primary function is to provide a reliable and continuous power supply for various loads, with a continuous maximum output current of 60A. The converter is designed to be highly efficient, boasting a minimum efficiency of 96% at maximum current (55A). It incorporates soft start technology and features a common input-output negative terminal, simplifying wiring and integration into existing systems.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Input Voltage Range: 22 to 60 (+/- 0.5) VDC
- Output Voltage: 13.6-13.8 VDC (factory set, internally adjustable)
- Rated Max Output Current: 60 A
- Output Power, Continuous (Resistive Load): 850 W
- Input Current at Max Continuous Power: 31.0 A / 15.5 A @ 24/48 Vin
- Max. Input Current at No Load: 0.30 A when converter is in "ON" state
- Min. Input Current at No Load: <0.002 A when converter is in "OFF" state
- Output Voltage Regulation: < 40 mV, NL to Full Load
- Output Ripple & Noise: <50 mV RMS
- Efficiency at Max Current (55A): 96% minimum
- Low Input Voltage Shutdown: 19.0 - 21.0 VDC
- High Input Voltage Shutdown: > 61.0 VDC
- Overload Current Limiting: Electronic knee type at power limit
- Over Temperature Shutdown: Yes (Auto reset)
- Input Reverse Polarity Protection: Resettable Integral Circuit Breaker
- Ambient Air Operating Temperature Range: -30C to +50C no derating (derating 15% per 10C above 50C to a maximum of 70C)
- Operating Humidity: <95%, non-condensing
- Altitude: 6000 meters
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.8 x 6.9 x 3.6 inches
- Mounting Centers (L x W x H): 13.30 x 3.38 inches
- Weight: 12 lbs / 5.5 kg
Usage Features:
The Model 384 is designed for straightforward installation and operation. It is shipped fully assembled, and users are advised to inspect for any shipping damage before proceeding with installation.
- Mounting: The unit has an overall length of 13.8 inches, including mounting flanges. The hole mounting centers are 13.3 x 3.93 inches, facilitating secure installation in various vehicle types.
- Connections: Connections are made via WECO Screw Terminal Blocks for both input and output. A flat blade screwdriver (1/4 inch wide) is required for terminal connections. The manual provides a detailed connection panel view (Figure 1) and step-by-step instructions for wiring, emphasizing the importance of making connections (A through D) before hooking up to the vehicular power source to prevent sparking and allow for error detection.
- Activation Methods: The converter can be activated in two ways:
- By connecting Terminals 1 & 2 on TBA (as factory supplied), which allows activation by switching the source power ON and OFF.
- By connecting Terminal #1 to Terminal #2 through a remote ON/OFF switch or relay.
- Power Limiting & Overload Protection: The device electronically limits power once 800W output is exceeded. It includes a protective circuit breaker on the front panel, above the connection block, to safeguard against misuse, such as reverse polarity connections. Over temperature shutdown with auto-reset and input reverse polarity protection via a resettable integral circuit breaker further enhance its reliability.
- RF Transparency: High pass filters are incorporated to allow RF signals in the PLC4 spectrum to pass between input and output terminals with attenuation less than 3dB.
- Internal Adjustments: For technicians, the unit allows for voltage adjustment between 12 VDC and 14 VDC and current limit adjustment. Accessing these adjustments requires removing the base plate by unscrewing four securing screws. A stable DC power supply variable from at least 20 VDC to 30 VDC is necessary for these adjustments. The voltage adjustment procedure involves hooking up the unit under no load conditions, energizing the power supply to +24 VDC, and then adjusting the voltage adjust potentiometer while observing the output on a Digital Volt Meter.
Maintenance Features:
- Warranty: The Model 384 comes with a 2-year warranty covering parts and labor from the date of original shipment. This warranty ensures that the instrument is free from defects in material and workmanship and will perform within applicable specifications.
- Repair Process: In case of a defective or damaged unit under warranty, users should contact SEC America, LLC at 802-865-8388 to obtain a return merchandise authorization (RMA) for credit or exchange. If the warranty has expired or has been violated due to operator error or misuse, users should contact the SEC America Corp. Repair Department at 802-865-8388 or fax 802-865-8389 for authorization to ship the unit back to the factory for survey and possible repair.
- Warranty Exclusions: The warranty does not cover fuses and pilot lights, which are covered for one year. It also explicitly states that the warranty does not cover units damaged in transit, by misuse, accident, or negligence.
- Return Address: For warranty claims or repairs, units should be sent to SEC America Corp., 78 Ethan Allen Drive, S. Burlington, VT 05403. It is crucial to retain the original bill of sale as it must be submitted for any warranty claim.
- Convection Cooled: The design incorporates convection cooling, eliminating the need for active cooling components and potentially reducing maintenance related to fans or other moving parts.
- Internally Encapsulated: The mechanical design indicates that the unit is internally encapsulated, which contributes to its vibration and shock resistance and protects internal components from environmental factors.
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