VC-AL450 - Battery charger VOLTCRAFT - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL VC-AL450 VOLTCRAFT

GB Operating Instructions

Automatic charger 6V/12V 1A/4.5A

Item No. 1893207 Page 2 - 15

F Notice d'emploi

1. Introduction......3
2. Explanation of symbols....3
3. Intended use....4
4. Package contents 4
5. Features and functions .... 5
6. Safety information....5

a) General information....5
b) Connected devices....6
c) Electrical safety 6
d) Persons and product 7
e) Rechargeable batteries ....7

1. Operating elements 8
   a) Meaning of LED indicators 9
2. Installation and mounting....9
3. Setup 10

a) Charging a battery....10
b) Charging modes and functions....12
c) Charging time....13
d) Built-in protection features....13

1. Care and cleaning....14
2. Changing the fuse....14
3. Disposal....14

a) Product....14
b) Rechargeable batteries 14

1. Technical data....15

1. Introduction

Dear customer,

Thank you for purchasing this product.

This product complies with statutory national and European regulations.

To ensure that the product remains in this state and to guarantee safe use, always follow the instructions in this manual.

These operating instructions are part of this product. They contain important information on setting up and using the product. Do not give this product to a third party without the operating instructions. Keep these operating instructions in a safe place for future reference.

If there are any technical questions, please contact:

International: www.conrad.com/contact

United Kingdom: www.conrad-electronic.co.uk/contact

2. Explanation of symbols

The symbol with the lightning in a triangle indicates that there is a risk to your health, e.g. due to an electric shock.

The symbol with an exclamation mark in a triangle is used to highlight important information in these operating instructions. Always read this information carefully.

The arrow symbol indicates special information and tips on how to use the product.

This symbol indicates that this product is built according to protection class II. It is equipped with reinforced or dual insulation between the mains circuit and the output voltage.

The product must only be installed and used in dry, indoor locations. It must not become damp or wet, as this may cause a fatal electric shock!

This symbol reminds you to read the operating instructions included with the product.

This symbol indicates the protection class. The product is sealed and protected against dust ingress and spray water from all directions

3. Intended use

This compact charger automatically charges lead-acid, calcium and lithium batteries with a 6 V or 12 V terminal voltage and a capacity of 1.2 Ah to 120 Ah (for 12 V batteries) or 1.2 Ah to 24 Ah (for 6 V lead-acid batteries). Compatible battery types include lead-fleece (AGM) wet or gel batteries and lithium batteries. The charger can be used to charge batteries mounted in vehicles. The charger can be used to charge batteries mounted in vehicles. It automatically detects drained batteries and reactivates them by delivering an increased charging voltage. A trickle charge function keeps the battery voltage at an optimal level. The charger features an operating button. LED indicators indicate the operating status. The charger is protected against reverse polarity and short circuits. It can also detect faulty batteries.

The clamps initially deliver a voltage of 0.6-0.8 V when the charger detects that a battery is connected. This prevents sparks from being produced if the clamps are touched unintentionally. The connection is indicated with colour-coded clamps (red +, black -) for universal contact, or eyelets for permanent contact. It is also possible to connect the charger to an in-vehicle cigarette lighter with a connector plug (for charging/power supply). The charging connections can be reversed with a reverse-polarity protected socket system. The charger must not be used to connect or charge primary batteries (e.g. zinc-carbon or alkaline batteries) or other batteries that are not specified in these instructions (see "Technical data").

The charger must be connected to a standard household AC voltage and must only be used in well ventilated indoor areas. The charger is powered by a 100–240 V/AC mains voltage.

This product is intended for indoor use only. Do not use it outdoors. Contact with moisture (e.g. in a bathroom) must be avoided under all circumstances.

For safety and approval purposes, do not rebuild and/or modify this product. Using the product for purposes other than those described above may damage the product. In addition, improper use can cause hazards such as a short circuit, fire or electric shock. Read the instructions carefully and store them in a safe place. Only make this product available to third parties together with its operating instructions.

All company and product names are trademarks of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

4. Package contents

• Charger
• 1x ring eyelet connection (black = negative terminal, red = positive terminal).
• 1x red and black terminal (black = negative terminal, red = positive terminal).
• 1x car plug
• Operating instructions

Up-to-date operating instructions

To download the latest operating instructions, visit www.conrad.com/downloads or scan the QR code on this page. Follow the instructions on the website.

5. Features and functions

• Charges a range of batteries such as lead-acid (wet), gel, lead-fleece (AGM) and lithium (LiFePO4) batteries
- Automatically selects the previous charging mode when switched on
- Can be used to power on-board devices when connected to the battery
- Charging mode for AGM and low temperatures
- Detects faulty batteries
- Compact and lightweight design
- Trickle charge function

6. Safety information

Read the operating instructions and safety information carefully. If you do not follow the safety instructions and information on proper handling in these operating instructions, we assume no liability for any resulting personal injury or damage to property. Such cases will invalidate the warranty/guarantee.

a) General information

• The product is not a toy. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not leave packaging material lying around carelessly. It may become a dangerous toy for children.
• Protect the product from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, strong jolts, high humidity, moisture, flammable gases, vapours and solvents.
• Do not place the product under any mechanical stress.

• If it is no longer possible to operate the product safely, stop using it and prevent unauthorised use. Safe operation can no longer be guaranteed if the product:

• is visibly damaged,

• is no longer working properly,
• has been stored for extended periods in poor ambient conditions or

• has been subjected to any serious transport-related stress.

• Handle the product carefully. Jolts, impacts or a fall even from a low height may damage the product.

• Consult a technician if you are not sure how to use or connect the product, or if you have concerns about safety.
• Maintenance, modifications and repairs must be done by a technician or a specialist repair centre.
• If you have any questions which are not answered in these operating instructions, contact our technical support service or other technical personnel.

b) Connected devices

• Always observe the safety instructions and operating instructions of other devices (vehicle, batteries) which are connected to the product.

c) Electrical safety

• Before connecting the product to the mains, check that your local A/C mains voltage matches the specifications on the nameplate.
• The product is constructed according to protection class II. Only connect the charger to a standard mains socket (230 V/AC, 50 Hz) connected to the public grid.
• Never pour liquids over electrical devices or place objects filled with liquid next to the device. If liquid or an object does enter the interior of the device, power down the respective socket (e.g. switch off the circuit breaker) and remove the mains plug from the mains socket. Discontinue use and take the product to a specialist repair centre.
• Never use the product immediately after it has been brought from a cold room into a warm one. The condensation that forms may destroy the product. The mains adapter may also cause a fatal electric shock! Allow the product to reach room temperature before connecting it and putting it to use. This may take several hours.
• The mains outlet must be located near to the device and be easily accessible.
• Never unplug the mains plug by pulling on the cable. Always use the grips on the plug.
• Unplug the mains plug from the mains socket if you do not plan to use the appliance for an extended period of time.
• For safety reasons, disconnect the mains plug from the mains socket during thunderstorms.
• Make sure that the mains cable is not squeezed, bent, damaged by sharp edges or subjected to mechanical stress. Avoid excessive thermal stress on the mains cable from extreme heat or cold. Do not modify the mains cable, as this may damage the components inside the cable. Damaged mains cables can cause a fatal electric shock.
• Do not touch the mains cable if there are any signs of damage. Power down the respective mains socket (e.g. via the respective circuit breaker), and then carefully unplug the mains plug from the mains socket. Never use the product if the mains cable is damaged.
• Damaged mains cables must be replaced by the manufacturer, an authorised repair centre or a qualified electrician.
• Never insert or unplug the mains plug when your hands are wet.

d) Persons and product

• Always comply with the accident prevention regulations for electrical equipment when using the product in commercial facilities.
• In schools, educational facilities, computer and DIY workshops, the product must be used under the supervision of qualified personnel.
• The device must not be used in explosion-prone areas.
• Observe the safety information in each section.

• Observe the labels on the product.

• Warning! Avoid explosive gases, naked flames and sparks.

• Disconnect the mains plug before connecting/disconnecting the battery.
• Read the operating instructions before charging.

• Use only the product in well ventilated areas.

• Do not use the charger inside vehicles.

• Never cover the charger or the connected battery!
• Do not smoke when using the charger or handling rechargeable batteries.
• Do not use the charger when the ambient temperature is higher than +40^ .
• Do not use the charger in the vicinity of flammable substances or gases.

e) Rechargeable batteries

• Ensure that you insert the battery in the correct polarity.
• Keep batteries out of the reach of children. Do not leave batteries lying around, as they constitute a choking hazard for children and pets.
• Rechargeable batteries must not be dismantled, short-circuited or thrown into open flames. Never attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries, as this may cause an explosion!

7. Operating elements

7891011 4.5A AGN Flooded Lithium 1A 6V 12V POWER MODE Revised Defective Charging Status 564321

VOLTCRAFT®

VC-AL450

1 MODE button
2 F charging status LED
3 M charging status LED
4 Low charging status LED
5 Defective faulty battery indicator

6 Reversed polarity indicator
7 AGM mode LED indicator
8 Flooded mode LED indicator
9 6 V mode LED indicator
10 12 V mode LED indicator
11 POWER LED indicator

12 13 16 15 14

12 Mains cable with mains plug
13 Charging cable connector with connection coupling
14 Red and black terminal (black = negative terminal, red = positive terminal).
15 Eyelet connector (black = negative terminal, red = positive terminal).
16 Vehicle connector

a) Meaning of LED indicators

LED Meaning

FULL	Charging indicator (flashes when battery is more than 75 % charged, constant when battery is fully charged)
MID	Charging indicator (battery is less than 75 % charged)
LOW	Charging indicator (battery is less than 50 % charged)
Defective	The indicator turns on if the connected battery is faulty.
Reversed	The indicator turns on if the cable is connected in reverse polarity. Check that the charging contacts are connected in the correct polarity and diagnose the cause of the problem.
AGM	This mode (winter mode) (14.7 V/4.5 A for lead-acid batteries) is designed for low ambient temperatures. This mode is also recommended for AGM batteries.
LITHIUM	This mode is designed to charge 12 V lithium rechargeable batteries (the AGM and Flooded LEDs turn on).
Flooded	This mode (summer mode) is designed to charge lead-acid batteries (14.4 V/4.5 A) at normal temperatures.
6V 1A	The 6 V motorcycle mode is designed to charge lead-acid batteries with a voltage of up to 7.2 V and a capacity of up to 24 Ah.
12V 1A	The 12V motorcycle mode is designed to charge lead-acid batteries with a voltage of up to 14.4 V and a capacity of up to 120 Ah.
POWER	The power LED indicates that the charger is connected to a power supply and in standby mode.

8. Installation and mounting

You can place the charger on an even surface or screw it to a suitable surface (e.g. wall or workbench) via the mounting brackets on the housing. Mount the charger on a stable surface using the mounting brackets and suitable screws (not included).

Ensure that no existing cables or pipes (including water pipes) are damaged when drilling mounting holes or securing screws.

- Remove all connected devices and the battery before mounting the charger.

→ Ensure that the mains socket for connecting the charger is close to the mounting location.

Follow the steps below to screw the charger in place:

- Place the charger in the desired mounting position. If necessary, use a spirit level to ensure that the charger is aligned.

• Mark the position of the two screws through the holes in the mounting brackets. Drill the holes. Depending on the surface, suitable screws and/or dowels may be required. Screws for wood and dowels in walls are not included and must be purchased separately.
• After securing the charger to the surface, adjust it to the exact position and tighten the screws (do not overtighten the screws). Use a suitable screwdriver to tighten the screws.

9. Setup

The charger heats up during use. Ensure that there is sufficient ventilation. Do not cover the housing!

Never charge lead batteries in a closed container.

Ensure there is sufficient ventilation during the charging process and avoid naked flames!

Explosive gases may be generated during the charging process. Keep the charger out of the reach of children!

Before charging batteries with liquid acid, open the sealing plugs on each cell.

Leave the battery casing to ventilate for approx. 2 minutes to allow explosive gases to evaporate!

Check the liquid level and top up if necessary.

Check the liquid level on a regular basis during longer charging periods (overwintering). Wear safety goggles when inspecting the batteries!

Do not turn lead-acid batteries upside down. Avoid any contact with the battery liquid, as it may cause severe chemical burns.

Rinse the contact points (skin, clothes, etc.) immediately with water to dilute the battery acid.

Contact a doctor immediately in case of contact with skin.

In case of prolonged storage, charge lead-acid batteries every 3 months to prevent them from draining.

Never short-circuit the battery contacts.

When connecting batteries, ensure that they are connected in the correct polarity and observe the charging instructions provided by the battery manufacturer.

a) Charging a battery

- Ensure that your battery is compatible with the charger. The battery must be a 6 V/12 V lead-acid, lead-fleece or gel battery or a 12 V lithium battery. Refer to the specifications in the "Technical data" section.

Do not use the charger to charge batteries with other operating voltages!

- Connect the appropriate adapter cable (15 or 16) to the charging cable. The plugs can only be connected in the correct polarity. Check that the cables are connected properly. The locking mechanism should click into place.

→ You can also connect the charger to an in-vehicle cigarette lighter socket via the adapter cable and vehicle connector (16). Switch off the ignition and other connected devices before connecting the charger. Refer to the information in your vehicle owner's manual. The ground connection (negative terminal) is on the outside of the vehicle connector. The positive terminal is located on the inside of the tip. This adapter only functions when the cigarette lighter socket is connected to a continuously positive terminal (i.e. the socket must function when the ignition is switched off).

• To unplug the adapter cable from the charging cable, press gently on the latch and pull the cables apart. Do not force the cables apart if the locking mechanism has not been released.
• Insert the mains plug (13) into a mains socket (100-240 V/AC, 50/60 Hz). The charger will switch on and check each charging function. The LED indicators will turn on briefly.

The charger has an automatic memory function, i.e. it automatically selects the previous charging mode when it is connected to the mains.

- Use the MODE button (1) to select a charging mode. Press the button until the LED/LEDs indicate the desired function. For details on individual charging modes, refer to the next section ("b) Charging modes and functions").

Connect the adapter cable to the battery. Never connect the cable directly to other devices!

- Connect the charger to the battery. Ensure that the battery is connected in the correct polarity. The red adapter cable must be connected to the positive terminal, and the black adapter cable must be connected to the negative terminal. Connect the cables on the red and black clamps to the battery terminals. Screw the eyelet connector to the terminal contacts (red and black terminal and eyelet connector: black = negative terminal, red = positive terminal). Insert the vehicle connector into the cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle.

For built-in batteries connected to an on-board system, connect the positive terminal and then connect the black terminal to an earth potential (chassis) that is positioned at a slight distance from the battery and the fuel pipe. Check that the clamps are connected properly.

- Disconnect all devices from the battery. If the battery is mounted inside a vehicle, switch off the ignition.

For more information on charging vehicle batteries, follow the instructions and safety information in the owner's manual. Modern vehicles are equipped with sensitive electronic components and sensors which may be damaged if you do not exercise caution.

• The Reversed LED (6) will turn on if the polarity is incorrect. Check the polarity and connect the terminals in the correct polarity.
• If the charging circuit is short-circuited, the Defective LED (5) will turn on.
• The charger can automatically detect defective batteries. If the battery is defective, the selected charging program will not be started and the Defective LED (5) will turn on. Ask a technician to inspect the battery, or purchase a replacement.
• Disconnect the battery and the charger from the power supply after the battery has finished charging. Disconnect the mains plug (12) from the mains socket. Remove the black and then the red clamp from the battery.

b) Charging modes and functions

1. AGM mode (14.7 V ±0.25 V)

• This mode is designed to charge lead-acid, gel and lead-fleece batteries with a capacity of over 25 Ah at low ambient temperatures.
• To select this mode, press the MODE button (1) until the AGM indicator (7) turns on. The charging process will start automatically (4.5 A ±10 %).
• The FULL indicator (2) will turn on when the battery is fully charged (14.7 V ±0.25 V). The device automatically switches to trickle charge mode.

→ You can use this mode for batteries that are designed for higher final charge voltages. Follow the charging instructions provided by the battery manufacturer.

2. Wet/summer mode (14.4 V ±0.25 V, max. 4.5 A)

• This mode is designed to charge lead-acid, gel and lead-fleece batteries with a capacity of over 25 Ah at normal ambient temperatures.
• To select this mode, press the MODE button (1) until the Flooded indicator (8) turns on. The charging process will start automatically (4.5 A ±10 %).
• The FULL indicator (2) will turn on when the battery is fully charged (14.4 V ±0.25 V). The device automatically switches to trickle charge mode.

3. 6 V motorcycle mode (7.2 V ±0.25 V)

• This mode is designed to charge 6 V batteries with a capacity of less than 24 Ah at normal ambient temperatures.
• To select this mode, press the MODE button (1) until the 6 V LED indicator (9) turns on. The charging process starts automatically. The maximum charging current is 1A± 10% .
• The FULL indicator (2) will turn on when the battery is fully charged (7.2 V ±0.25 V). The device automatically switches to trickle charge mode.

4. 12V motorcycle mode (14.4 V ±0.25 V)

• This mode is designed to charge 12V batteries with a capacity of less than 120 Ah at normal ambient temperatures.
- To select this mode, press the MODE button (1) until the 12 V LED indicator (10) turns on. The charging process starts automatically. The maximum charging current is 1 A ±10 %.
- The FULL indicator (2) will turn on when the battery is fully charged (14.4 V ±0.25 V). The device automatically switches to trickle charge mode.

5. Lithium mode (14.4 V ±0.25 V, max. 4.5 A)

• Lithium mode is designed to charge 12 V lithium rechargeable batteries (LiFePO 4 batteries). Follow the charging instructions provided by the battery manufacturer.
• Press the MODE button (1) until the AGM (7) and Flooded (8) LED indicators start to flash. After approx. 2 seconds, the LEDs will stay constant and the battery will start to charge. The charging process starts automatically. The maximum charging current is 4.5A± 10% .
• The FULL indicator (2) will turn on when the battery is fully charged (14.4 V ±0.25 V). The device automatically switches to trickle charge mode.

Restore function

- This function is designed to restore overdischarged batteries. It cannot be selected manually. Restore mode starts automatically when an overdischarged battery is connected to the charger. A low charging current is used to restore the battery to a normal voltage. When the battery reaches its normal voltage, the charger continues to charge the battery using the normal charging process.

c) Charging time

• The time it takes for the battery to reach its final charging voltage depends on several parameters, such as:

• The capacity (Ah) (batteries with higher capacities take longer to charge)
• The type of battery
• The charging status (full, half-full or empty)
• The ambient temperature (ideally between 20 - 25 °C) and
• The general condition (age) of the battery.

The charging time depends on the above parameters and can be roughly estimated using the following formula: Charging time (in hours) = Battery capacity (in Ah) x 1.2 / Charging current (in A)

Example: 20 Ah lead-gel battery, empty

Approx. charging time 5 hrs = 20 Ah x 1.2 / 5 A

d) Built-in protection features

Spark-resistant short-circuit and reverse polarity protection

• These functions protect the charger from damage when the battery cables are connected in reverse polarity.

Overvoltage protection

- This function protects sensitive electronic components in the charger against damage caused by high voltages.

Charging current regulator

- This function prevents the charger from overheating and damage caused by short or excessive loads.

Automatic overtemperature protection

- The overtemperature protection feature prevents damage to the charger caused by abnormal ambient temperatures or faulty components.

The built-in overheat protection feature constantly monitors the temperature of the electronic components. If the temperature exceeds the preset limit, the current is reduced to prevent the charger from overheating. This reduces the output current until the temperature has dropped to a safe level.

10. Care and cleaning

Never use aggressive detergents, rubbing alcohol or other chemical solutions, as these may damage the casing or stop the product from functioning properly.

• Before cleaning, disconnect the product from the mains and remove any connected batteries.
• Use a dry, lint-free cloth to clean the product.

11. Changing the fuse

- If the fuse of the device has burned out (there is no voltage at the charging output when a battery is connected), send the charger to our technical support team or a qualified technician for repair/replacement fuse. Do not attempt to replace the fuse by yourself!

12. Disposal

a) Product

Electronic devices are recyclable waste and must not be placed in household waste. At the end of its service life, dispose of the product according to the relevant statutory regulations. Remove any connected batteries and dispose of them separately from the product.

b) Rechargeable batteries

You are required by law to return all used batteries. They must not be placed in household waste.

Rechargeable batteries that contain hazardous substances are labelled with this symbol to indicate that disposal in household waste is forbidden. The abbreviations for heavy metals in batteries are: Cd = Cadmium, Hg = Mercury, Pb = Lead (indicated on the battery, e.g. below the waste bin icon on the left).

Used batteries can be returned to local collection points, our stores or battery retailers.

You thus fulfil your statutory obligations and contribute to environmental protection.

13. Technical data

Input voltage....100–240 V/AC, 50/60 Hz

Power consumption....Max. 75 W

Output voltage/current....12 V/DC, 1 A / 4.5 A, 6 V/DC, 1 A

Rechargeable batteries 1.2 – 120 Ah (12 V lead-acid/lithium)

1.2 – 24 Ah (6 V lead-acid)

Charging modes with voltages 14.4 V ±0.25 V, 4.5 A ± 10 % (wet mode)

14.7 V ±0.25 V, 4.5 A ± 10 % (AGM mode)

14.4 V ±0.25 V, 4.5 A ± 10 % (Lithium (flooded + AGM) mode)

14.4 V ±0.25 V, 1 A ±10 % (12 V, 1 A)

7.2 V ±0.25 V, 1 A ±10 % (6 V, 1 A)

Protection rating (housing) IP65

Fuse....T3.15A

Operating conditions....0 to +40 °C

Storage conditions....-30 to +70 °C

Dimensions (L x W x H)....203 x 67 x 48 mm (device)

Weight 650 g (with accessories)

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7891011 4.5A AGN Flooded Lithium 1A 6V 12V POWER MODE Revised Defective Charging Status 564321

VOLTCRAFT®

VC-AL450

7891011 4.5A AGN Flooded Lithium 1A 6V 12V POWER MODE Revised Defective Charging Status 564321

VOLTCRAFT®
VC-AL450

1 Knop MODE
2 Laadstatus-led
3 Laadstatus-led
4 Laadstatus-led
5 Defecte accu-led Defective

12 13 16 15 14

6 Polariteitsweergave Reversed
7 Modusweergave-led AGM
8 Modusweergave-led Flooded
9 Modusweergave-led 6V
10 Modusweergave-led 12V
11 Indicatie-led POWER

GB This is a publication by Conrad Electronic SE, Klaus-Conrad-Str. 1, D-92240 Hirschau (www.conrad.com).

All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction by any method, e.g. photocopy, microfilming, or the capture in electronic data processing systems require the prior written approval by the editor. Reprinting, also in part, is prohibited. This publication represents the technical status at the time of printing.

Copyright 2019 by Conrad Electronic SE.

Copyright 2019 by Conrad Electronic SE.

Copyright 2019 by Conrad Electronic SE.