The document describes the sPOD BantamX, a power management and control system designed for vehicles. This system aims to simplify wiring and provide robust control over various accessories.
Function Description
The sPOD BantamX is a power distribution system that allows users to control multiple accessories from a central unit. It acts as an interface between the vehicle's electrical system and aftermarket accessories, providing fused power and switching capabilities. The system is designed to handle extreme-use conditions and offers built-in protection against common electrical issues.
Key functions include:
- Power Distribution: It provides multiple fused outputs (6 or 8 circuits depending on the system) for connecting various accessories, ensuring each accessory receives appropriate power while being protected from overcurrents.
- Switching Control: The system allows for the activation and deactivation of connected accessories through various input methods, including physical switches, external devices, and a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone/tablet app.
- Safety and Protection: It incorporates several safety features, such as reverse polarity warning lights, low voltage cut-off, and protection against shorts, overcurrents, and field collapse.
- Input Polarity Selection: Users can switch between positive and ground trigger inputs for the control signals, offering flexibility in integration with different vehicle systems.
- Key-on Lock-out Control: Specific switches can be configured to only activate when the vehicle's ignition is on, preventing accidental activation or draining the battery when the vehicle is off.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The BantamX can be paired with a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, allowing for remote control and setup through a dedicated app. This feature enables advanced control and monitoring capabilities.
Usage Features
The sPOD BantamX is designed for ease of use and installation, offering several features that enhance its functionality and user experience:
- Simplified Wiring: The system aims to reduce the complexity of wiring multiple accessories by centralizing power distribution and control, saving significant installation time.
- DIP Switch Settings: A set of DIP switches provides configurable options for various system behaviors. These include:
- Bluetooth Pairing Mode: DIP switch 1 is used to initialize "pairing mode" for Bluetooth applications, disable deep sleep mode, and for troubleshooting.
- Voltage System Selection: DIP switch 2 allows users to switch between 12V (OFF position) and 24V (ON position) electrical systems, making it compatible with a wider range of vehicles.
- Key-on Lock-out Control: DIP switches 3 and 4 enable key-on lock-out for switches #1 and #2, respectively. When activated, these switches will only be active when the ignition is on.
- Multiple Source Select: DIP switches 5 and 6 are used for multiple source selection, which helps identify different Bantam units in systems with multiple devices.
- Input Terminal Block: The input terminal block provides connections for various control signals:
- Input 1 (Low Voltage Cut Off Bypass): Attaching 12/24V from a positive power feed to this input disables the low voltage cut-off feature.
- Input 2 (Lock-out 12/24V Power Input): This input activates the key-on/lock-out function. It should be connected to a 12/24V positive power feed that is live when the ignition key is on.
- Inputs 3-10 (Switch Activation): These inputs allow external devices with a 3.3 - 24VDC signal to activate any of the 8 switches.
- Trigger Input Selection: A jumper allows users to switch all 8 inputs between positive trigger input and ground trigger input, providing flexibility for different control signal types.
- Smartphone/Tablet App Control: The sPOD Bantam app, available on the App Store and Google Play, enables users to download the app, pair it with the BantamX via Bluetooth, and control the system remotely. The pairing process involves flipping DIP switch 1 ON then OFF quickly to enter pairing mode, scanning for the device, and entering a PIN.
- Switch ID Labels (Legends): The system includes placeholders for switch ID labels, allowing users to clearly identify the function of each switch.
- Robust Construction: The BantamX is designed with American-made and manufactured components, engineered to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring reliability and durability.
Maintenance Features
The sPOD BantamX incorporates features that contribute to its longevity and ease of maintenance:
- Circuit Board Protection: A 2AMP fuse is included for circuit board protection, safeguarding the internal electronics from electrical surges or faults.
- Cover and Warranty: The device has a cover that should NOT be removed, as doing so will void the warranty. This emphasizes the importance of keeping the internal components protected and maintaining the integrity of the unit.
- Reverse Polarity Warning Lights: These lights illuminate red if reverse polarity is detected during installation, providing an immediate visual warning to prevent damage to the unit and connected accessories.
- Built-in Protection: The system's inherent protection against overcurrents, shorts, reverse polarity, and field collapse minimizes the risk of damage from electrical faults, reducing the need for frequent repairs or component replacements.
- Thumb Screw for Fastening Lid: A thumb screw is used for fastening the lid, allowing for easy access to internal components if necessary (though removal voids warranty).
- User Support: sPOD prides itself on providing live and local customer support, which can assist users with any maintenance or troubleshooting questions.
- Non-interference with OEM CAN Bus: The sPOD systems are designed not to interfere with the OEM CAN Bus system, ensuring that the vehicle's original electronics remain unaffected, which is crucial for long-term vehicle health and avoiding complex diagnostic issues.
The sPOD BantamX is a comprehensive power management solution that combines robust design, flexible control options, and essential safety features to enhance the functionality and reliability of vehicle accessory installations.
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