The BatteryMINDer® Model SCC515 is a maintenance charger and solar controller designed for use with 5 Watt and 15 Watt solar panels. This device is engineered to charge, maintain, and desulfate 12-volt lead-acid batteries, ensuring their longevity and optimal performance.
Function Description:
The SCC515 system primarily functions as a solar-powered battery maintenance charger and desulfator. It utilizes solar energy to keep 12-volt lead-acid batteries fully charged and free from sulfation, a common cause of battery failure. The system includes a solar panel (either 5W or 15W, depending on the model), a solar controller, and a Battery Condition Indicator (BCI).
The solar controller is the brain of the system, regulating the charging process and implementing desulfation technology. It monitors the battery's state and adjusts the charging current and voltage accordingly. The "FULL-TIME DESULFATION" feature is crucial for extending battery life by breaking down sulfate crystals that accumulate on battery plates over time, which can reduce capacity and prevent proper charging. The controller also ensures "MAXIMUM MAINTENANCE CHARGE," meaning it keeps the battery at an optimal charge level without overcharging.
The Battery Condition Indicator (BCI) provides a quick and accurate assessment of the battery's state of charge and condition. It helps users determine if a battery needs charging, is not holding a charge, or requires desulfation. This indicator is designed to be used after the battery has been fully charged with a high-power charger and allowed to "rest" for 10 to 24 hours.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Battery Type: 12-volt lead-acid batteries (sealed gel, AGM, deep cycle, marine, maintenance-free electrolyte).
- Solar Panel Compatibility: Designed for use with 5 Watt and 15 Watt solar panels.
- Input Voltage (Solar): The solar panel provides power for charging. The 15-watt panel, for example, provides 15V at 1.0 amps.
- Output Voltage (Charging): The unit charges the battery to approximately 14.2 volts and then switches to a lower float-maintenance level of approximately 13.4 volts.
- Desulfation: Full-time desulfation is integrated into the charging process.
- Fuse: ATC-3 blade type 3 amp rated fuse on the positive lead of the battery connector. It is critical not to bypass or replace this fuse with a higher-rated one to prevent serious damage.
- LED Status Indicators (Solar Controller):
- YELLOW: Solar Power (Lit when sufficient sunlight is available).
- RED: Polarity Reversed (Battery only – indicates incorrect connection).
- GREEN: Battery Charge (Solid when charging/desulfating; Blinking when maintaining/desulfating).
- LED Status Indicators (BCI):
- RED, YELLOW, GREEN: All three lit indicate "good" condition (12.5 – 13.2 volts).
- RED, YELLOW: Only these two lit indicate "fair" condition (12.0 – 12.5 volts).
- RED: Only this one lit indicates "poor" condition (11.5 – 12.0 volts).
- No LEDs lit: Battery is considered "DEAD."
- Operating Temperature: The controller should be in the same general temperature environment as the battery(s).
- Cord Extension: The solar panel cord may be extended by an additional 5 feet using the same gauge/type cord. Battery cables should not be extended or replaced.
Usage Features:
- Easy Installation: The solar panel comes with brackets for both temporary and permanent mounting. Temporary installation uses arms to angle the panel for optimal sun exposure, while permanent installation uses four brackets to secure it to a surface.
- Polarity Protection: The solar controller has a RED LED indicator that illuminates if the battery connector wires are reversed, prompting the user to correct the connection.
- Automatic Operation: The system automatically charges and maintains the battery when sufficient solar power is available. It also automatically shuts down when solar energy is low (e.g., behind a cloud) to prevent battery discharge, resuming function once sufficient solar energy is detected.
- Versatile Battery Compatibility: Can be used with various types of 12-volt lead-acid batteries, including sealed gel, AGM, deep cycle, marine, and maintenance-free electrolytes.
- Multi-Battery Maintenance: Capable of maintaining and desulfating more than one battery at a time, provided they are in good condition and connected in parallel. However, the solar panel's power output limits the number of batteries that can be effectively maintained.
- Battery Condition Indicator (BCI): A separate indicator device that provides a quick visual assessment of battery health (good, fair, poor, or dead) via three LEDs (RED, YELLOW, GREEN). This requires the battery to be fully charged and "rested" for accurate readings.
Maintenance Features:
- Full-Time Desulfation: The integrated desulfation technology actively works to prevent and reverse sulfation, which is a primary cause of battery degradation. This feature helps to restore lost battery capacity and extend the overall lifespan of the battery.
- Optimal Charge Maintenance: The controller ensures that the battery is maintained at an optimal charge level (around 13.4 volts after reaching 14.2 volts during charging) to prevent both undercharging and overcharging, both of which can harm the battery.
- Robust Panel Design: The solar panels are made of tempered glass, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including hailstones up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter at 60 mph.
- Airflow Requirement: When permanently mounting the solar panel, it is recommended to leave at least 1 inch of space between the panel and the mounting surface to ensure adequate airflow, which helps in cooling and maintaining efficiency.
- Troubleshooting Indicators: The LED status indicators on the solar controller and BCI provide immediate visual feedback for troubleshooting, such as insufficient solar power, reversed polarity, or the battery's charge status.
- Warranty and Support: The product comes with a one-year 100% unconditional money-back guarantee and a limited warranty (five years for the controller, two years for the solar panel) against defective material or workmanship. Technical support is available for assistance with product issues.
The BatteryMINDer® SCC515 is designed to be a reliable, low-maintenance solution for keeping 12-volt lead-acid batteries in peak condition using sustainable solar energy. Its desulfation and intelligent charging features contribute significantly to extending battery life and ensuring readiness.
To Next Page
Need help?
General
