Product Overview
The CTEK MXS 5.0 TEST & CHARGE is an advanced microprocessor-controlled battery charger designed for comprehensive battery testing, charging, and maintenance. It combines a sophisticated charging unit with integrated battery and alternator check functions, offering a complete solution for various 12V lead-acid batteries.
This charger is capable of handling batteries from 1.2Ah to 110Ah and addresses common battery issues through features like patented automatic desulfation and a special reconditioning stage for heavily discharged or stratified batteries. Its patented Floating/Pulse maintenance ensures optimal long-term battery health.
The MXS 5.0 TEST & CHARGE also includes three user-friendly programs to assess battery voltage, starting power, and alternator performance, providing a clear overview of your vehicle's charging system integrity. It is designed for ease of use and safety, protecting vehicle electronics, and featuring spark-proof, reverse polarity, and short-circuit protection.
Key Features
- Battery and Alternator Testing: Features three independent test programs to evaluate the status and performance of the vehicle's battery and charging system.
- Patented Desulfation Function: Analyzes battery status and recovers power by addressing sulfation, which can shorten battery lifespan.
- Versatile Compatibility: Ideal for high-performance 12V lead-acid batteries, including AGM, WET, GEL, Ca/Ca, and EFB types.
- Patented Float & Pulse Maintenance: Ensures long-term battery maintenance, keeping batteries in optimal condition.
- Fully Automatic Operation: Simple "plug and forget" functionality with fast, automatic charging programs. Select the mode, and the charger manages the rest.
- Enhanced Safety: Splash-proof, dust-proof, and short-circuit protected. Designed with non-sparking clamps and reverse polarity protection to safeguard vehicle electronics.
- Sensitive Equipment Protection: Specifically designed not to damage electronic systems, eliminating the need to disconnect the battery during charging. Prevents overcharging or undercharging.
Setup Guide
Follow these steps to properly set up your CTEK MXS 5.0 Test&Charge battery charger:
- Prepare the Battery: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free from corrosion. If the battery is in the vehicle, ensure the ignition is off and all electrical consumers are switched off.
- Connect the Charger to the Battery:
- Connect the red positive (+) clamp or eyelet terminal to the battery's positive (+) terminal.
- Connect the black negative (-) clamp or eyelet terminal to the battery's negative (-) terminal. If connecting to a vehicle battery, connect the negative clamp to the chassis away from the battery and fuel line if the battery is not easily accessible.
Image: The CTEK MXS 5.0 charger shown with its included battery clamps and eyelet terminals, demonstrating the different connection options available for various battery setups.
Image: A user connecting the red positive clamp of the CTEK MXS 5.0 charger to the positive terminal of a car battery, illustrating the initial connection step.
- Connect the Charger to Power: Plug the charger's power cord into a suitable wall socket (120V AC). The charger will initiate its startup sequence.
- Select Charging Program: Press the MODE button to cycle through the available charging programs until the desired program is selected. The charger will then automatically begin the charging process.
Operating Instructions
The MXS 5.0 Test&Charge offers various modes and programs for optimal battery care. The display on the charger indicates the current status and selected program.
Image: The main unit of the CTEK MXS 5.0 Test&Charge, highlighting its intuitive display panel with LED indicators for charging stages and the 'MODE' button for program selection.
Charging Programs
The charger features an 8-step fully automatic charging process. Use the MODE button to select the appropriate program for your battery type and condition:
- DESULPHATION: Removes sulfates from the lead plates to restore battery capacity.
- SOFT START: Tests if the battery can accept charge. Charging begins if the battery is OK.
- BULK: Main charging stage where 80% of the charge is delivered.
- ABSORPTION, READY TO USE: Completes the charge up to 100%.
- ANALYSE: Checks if the battery can hold charge.
- RECOND: Reconditioning mode for deeply discharged or stratified batteries.
- FLOAT, FULLY CHARGED: Maintains the battery at maximum charge.
- PULSE, MAINTENANCE CHARGING: Keeps the battery charged when not in use, ideal for long-term storage.
The charger automatically progresses through these steps. The LEDs on the display indicate the current charging stage.
Test Programs
The MXS 5.0 Test&Charge includes three test programs to assess your battery and alternator:
- BATTERY TEST: Checks the battery's current charge level.
- START POWER TEST: Monitors the battery's output during engine cranking to evaluate overall condition.
- ALTERNATOR TEST: Establishes whether the vehicle's charging system is functioning correctly.
To perform a test, connect the charger to the battery and power, then press the MODE button until the desired test program is selected. The results will be indicated by the LEDs.
Maintenance
The CTEK MXS 5.0 Test&Charge is designed to provide optimal battery maintenance. Its patented Float and Pulse Maintenance modes are crucial for extending battery life, especially during periods of inactivity.
- Long-Term Connection: The charger can be left connected to the battery indefinitely for long-term maintenance. It will automatically switch to pulse maintenance once the battery is fully charged, ensuring the battery remains in peak condition without overcharging.
- Cleaning: Keep the charger and its cables clean. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Storage: Store the charger in a dry, cool place when not in use. Ensure cables are not kinked or damaged.
Image: The CTEK MXS 5.0 charger is shown in a wet environment, highlighting its IP65 rating for splash and dust protection, ensuring durability in various conditions.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your CTEK MXS 5.0 Test&Charge, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger does not start / No LEDs light up. | No power from wall socket, or poor connection to battery. | Check wall socket power. Ensure clamps/eyelets are securely connected to battery terminals. |
| Error LED (red triangle) is lit. | Reverse polarity connection, or short circuit. | Disconnect charger immediately. Reconnect ensuring positive (+) is connected to positive (+) and negative (-) to negative (-). Check for any short circuits. |
| Charger stays in "Desulphation" or "Soft Start" for a long time. | Battery is deeply discharged, heavily sulfated, or faulty. | Allow the charger to continue. If it doesn't progress after 24 hours, the battery may be beyond recovery and needs replacement. |
| Charger does not reach "Float" or "Pulse" mode. | Battery is not holding charge, or there's a parasitic drain. | Perform a battery test. Check for any electrical components in the vehicle that might be draining the battery. |
For further assistance, please contact CTEK customer support.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 56-308 |
| Product Dimensions | 2.2 x 10.79 x 5.75 inches (5.59 x 27.41 x 14.61 cm) |
| Item Weight | 1.76 pounds (0.8 kg) |
| Output Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Charging Current | 5A |
| Battery Capacity (Charging) | 1.2 Ah to 110 Ah |
| Battery Capacity (Maintenance) | 1.2 Ah to 160 Ah |
| Battery Types | All types of 12V lead-acid batteries (WET, MF, Ca/Ca, AGM, GEL) |
| IP Rating | IP65 (Splash and dust proof) |
Warranty Information
The CTEK MXS 5.0 Test&Charge comes with a 5-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, improper handling, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official CTEK website or contact customer support.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, product inquiries, or warranty claims, please contact CTEK customer support through their official channels.
- Official Website: Visit the CTEK website for FAQs, support resources, and contact information.
- Contact Form/Email: Look for a contact form or email address on the CTEK support page.
- Phone Support: Check the CTEK website for regional phone support numbers.
When contacting support, please have your product model number (56-308) and purchase details ready.
