Schauer Charge Master CM6A Maintenance Battery Charger User Manual

Introduction

The Schauer Charge Master CM6A is a smart microprocessor-controlled battery charger designed to maintain various types of 12-volt batteries, including power sport vehicle, SLA, deep cycle Gel, and AGM batteries, in a fully charged state. It features selectable current output (2, 4, or 6 Amps) and battery type settings, along with a float pulse function to help prevent and remove sulfation, a common cause of battery degradation. The charger comes with convenient SAE plug-n-play clip connectors for easy use.

Important Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating this charger. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

• Always wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with batteries.
• Ensure the charging area is well-ventilated.
• Never charge a frozen battery.
• Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from batteries. Batteries produce explosive gases.
• Do not expose the charger to rain or wet conditions.
• Disconnect the AC power before making or breaking connections to the battery.
• This charger is designed for 12V lead-acid batteries only. Do not use it for charging dry-cell batteries that are commonly used with home appliances.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Product Overview

Figure 1: Schauer Charge Master CM6A Battery Charger and included accessories.

The Schauer Charge Master CM6A features an intuitive control panel and comes with essential accessories for versatile battery connection.

Control Panel Features:

• Charge Mode Indicators: LEDs for 6A (Rapid), 4A (Silent), 1A (Maintain). Press the "Press" button under "CHARGE MODE" to cycle through these options.
• Battery Type Indicators: LEDs for Calcium, AGM&WET, Gel. Press the "Press" button under "BATTERY TYPE" to select the appropriate battery chemistry.
• Charge Status Indicators: LEDs for Fault, Bulk, Absorption, Full. These indicate the current state of the charging process or any detected errors.

Included Accessories:

• AC Power Cord
• SAE Plug-N-Play Alligator Clip Connectors (Red and Black)
• SAE Plug-N-Play Ring Terminal Connectors (Red and Black)

Setup

1. Prepare the Battery: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion. If charging a flooded lead-acid battery, check the electrolyte levels and top up with distilled water if necessary (do not overfill).
2. Select Connection Method: Choose between the alligator clip connectors or the ring terminal connectors based on your application.
   • Alligator Clips: Ideal for temporary connections.
   • Ring Terminals: Suitable for semi-permanent installations, often used for vehicles or equipment where the charger is frequently connected.
3. Connect to Battery:
   • Connect the red (positive) connector to the positive (+) battery terminal.
   • Connect the black (negative) connector to the negative (-) battery terminal.
   • Ensure connections are secure.
4. Connect Charger to Battery Leads: Plug the SAE connector from the chosen battery leads (alligator clips or ring terminals) into the corresponding SAE output port on the charger.
5. Connect to AC Power: Plug the charger's AC power cord into a standard 240 Volt AC wall outlet. The charger will power on and begin its initial sequence.

Operating Instructions

1. Select Battery Type:

After connecting the charger, the "BATTERY TYPE" indicator will illuminate. Press the "Press" button below "BATTERY TYPE" to cycle through the available battery chemistries:

• AGM&WET: For Absorbed Glass Mat and standard flooded lead-acid batteries.
• Gel: For Gel cell batteries.
• Calcium: For Calcium-type lead-acid batteries.

Select the type that matches your battery for optimal charging.

2. Select Charge Mode (Amperage):

Press the "Press" button below "CHARGE MODE" to select the desired charging current:

• 6A (Rapid): For faster charging of larger batteries.
• 4A (Silent): A moderate charging rate.
• 1A (Maintain): A low current setting ideal for long-term maintenance charging or smaller batteries.

The charger will automatically begin the charging process once the battery type and charge mode are selected.

3. Understanding Charge Stages:

The charger progresses through several stages, indicated by the LEDs:

• Bulk: The initial stage where the charger delivers maximum current to bring the battery to approximately 80% charge.
• Absorption: The voltage is held constant while the current gradually decreases, bringing the battery to 100% charge.
• Full: Indicates the battery is fully charged. The charger will then switch to a maintenance (float) mode.
• Maintain: The charger provides a small, pulsed current to keep the battery at full charge without overcharging, preventing sulfation.

4. Battery Rejuvenation (Desulfation):

The CM6A features a float pulse function designed to help prevent and remove sulfation, which is the leading cause of battery failure. This process occurs automatically during the maintenance stage, helping to extend battery life.

5. Disconnecting the Charger:

1. Unplug the AC power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Disconnect the SAE connector from the charger's output port.
3. Disconnect the negative (-) connector from the battery.
4. Disconnect the positive (+) connector from the battery.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Periodically wipe the charger casing with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the charger is unplugged before cleaning.
• Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect the AC power cord and battery connection cables for any signs of damage, fraying, or exposed wires. Do not use the charger if any cables are damaged.
• Storage: Store the charger in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures and high humidity. Keep it away from direct sunlight and corrosive materials.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Schauer Charge Master CM6A, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Schauer website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Extended protection plans may be available from your retailer. Please consult your retailer for details on such plans.