1. Introduction
The OptiMATE 7 SELECT, model TM-251, is an advanced 9-step 12V 10A battery charger and maintainer designed for starter and deep cycle batteries, including Odyssey and Optima types. It features a POWER SUPPLY mode for vehicle memory settings and other applications requiring stable power. This manual provides detailed instructions for safe and effective use of your OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger.
Key features include selectable 14.4V/14.7V charging, automatic adjustment for battery size and temperature, and advanced recovery for deeply discharged batteries as low as 0.5V. It is designed for long-term battery maintenance, ensuring more battery power and longer battery life.
2. Safety Information
Always read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before using the OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger. Failure to do so may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Indoor Use Only: This charger is designed for indoor use. Do not expose to rain or moisture.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during charging. Do not cover the charger.
- Battery Type: Use only with 12V lead-acid batteries (AGM, GEL, EFB, STD). Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries.
- Connection: Connect the charger to the battery before plugging it into the AC power outlet. Disconnect from AC power before disconnecting from the battery.
- Sparks: Sparks are suppressed during connection and disconnection. However, avoid creating sparks near the battery, as batteries can produce explosive gases.
- Eye Protection: Always wear eye protection when working with batteries.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
3. What's in the Box
Your OptiMATE 7 SELECT package includes the following components:
- OptiMATE 7 SELECT Battery Charger (TM-251)
- OptiMATE Cable O-04 (Battery Clamp Set)
- OptiMATE Cable O-11 (Permanent Ring Terminal Connector with Fuse)
Image: OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger with all included accessories, including the battery clamp set and permanent ring terminal connector.
4. Setup
4.1. Unpacking
Carefully remove the OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger and all accessories from the packaging. Inspect all components for any signs of damage. If any damage is found, do not use the product and contact customer support.
4.2. Connecting to Power
Plug the AC power cord of the OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger into a standard 100-240V AC wall outlet. The charger is designed to work with a wide range of input voltages.
Image: The OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger, showing its compact design and input/output labels.
4.3. Connecting to Battery
Choose the appropriate battery connection accessory (battery clamps or ring terminals) for your application.
- Using Battery Clamps (O-04): Connect the red clamp to the positive (+) battery terminal and the black clamp to the negative (-) battery terminal. Ensure a secure connection.
- Using Permanent Ring Terminal Connector (O-11): For long-term or frequent use, attach the ring terminals directly to the battery posts (red to positive, black to negative). This provides a convenient quick-connect point for the charger.
Image: The OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger with its battery clamps connected, ready for use with a battery.
5. Operating Instructions
The OptiMATE 7 SELECT operates through a sophisticated 9-step program to optimize battery health and charge.
5.1. Voltage Selection (14.4V / 14.7V)
Before connecting to the battery, select the appropriate charge voltage (14.4V or 14.7V) using the rotary switch on the charger. Refer to your battery manufacturer's specifications for the recommended charging voltage. The 14.7V setting is typically for AGM batteries requiring a higher charge voltage.
Image: A detailed view of the voltage selection dial on the OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger, allowing users to choose between 14.4V and 14.7V.
5.2. Charging Process (9 Steps)
Once connected to the battery and AC power, the OptiMATE 7 SELECT automatically initiates its 9-step program:
- STEP 1: Selection - User selects 14.4V or 14.7V charge voltage.
- STEP 2: Low Volt Start (0.5V) - Initiates charging even from very low battery voltages.
- STEP 3: TEST before charge - Assesses battery condition before commencing the main charge.
- STEP 4: Turbo SAVE - High-voltage desulfation for severely neglected batteries.
- STEP 5: Pulse SAVE - Gentle pulse desulfation for less severe sulfation.
- STEP 6: Controlled CHARGE - Bulk charging phase, delivering current based on battery size (Ampmatic control).
- STEP 7: OPTIMIZE - Absorption charge to ensure full charge and cell equalization.
- STEP 8: TEST after CHARGE - Verifies battery's ability to retain charge.
- STEP 9: OptiMate maintenance - Long-term float maintenance to prevent self-discharge.
5.3. Power Supply Mode
The OptiMATE 7 SELECT includes a POWER SUPPLY mode that delivers stable power (13.6V 8A) for various applications. This mode is ideal for maintaining vehicle memory settings during battery changes, powering showroom vehicle demos, or retaining memorized settings when battery cables are disconnected to fit powered accessories or replace the battery.
6. Maintenance
6.1. Long-Term Battery Maintenance
The OptiMATE 7 SELECT is designed for 24-7 smart maintenance. Once the battery is fully charged, the charger automatically switches to a maintenance mode, delivering small, precise charges as needed to counteract self-discharge, keeping the battery optimally charged without overcharging.
6.2. Charger Care
To ensure the longevity of your OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger:
- Keep the charger clean and dry. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth if necessary.
- Store the charger in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Do not expose the charger to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your OptiMATE 7 SELECT charger, refer to the table below for common problems and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger does not turn on / No lights | No AC power; Faulty outlet; Damaged power cord. | Check AC power connection; Test outlet with another device; Inspect power cord for damage. |
| Charger not charging battery | Incorrect battery connection; Battery voltage too low; Battery is severely sulfated or has a bad cell. | Ensure correct polarity (+ to +, - to -); The charger can recover batteries from 0.5V, but extremely dead or damaged batteries may not respond. |
| Charger stays in SAVE mode | Battery is sulfated or deeply discharged. | Allow the charger more time in SAVE mode. If it doesn't progress after an extended period, the battery may be beyond recovery. |
| Charger indicates 'TEST after CHARGE' but battery is not fully charged | Battery has a weak cell or internal damage. | The charger has detected an issue. The battery may need to be replaced. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tecmate |
| Model | TM-251 |
| Item Weight | 3.16 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 8.2 x 3 inches |
| Voltage (Output) | 12 Volts (Selectable 14.4V / 14.7V) |
| Current Rating | 10 Amps |
| Input Voltage | 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz |
| Safety Rating | CE Compliant |
| First Available Date | April 27, 2016 |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1. Warranty Information
The OptiMATE 7 SELECT TM-251 comes with a 3-year limited replacement warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, refer to the official Tecmate documentation or website.
9.2. Contact Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to view the official user guide in PDF format, please visit the official OptiMATE website:
http://optimate1.com/optimate7select
You can also access the User Guide PDF directly here: User Guide (PDF)
