Schauer Charge Master 12 Volt Battery Charger User Manual

1. Introduction

The Schauer Charge Master is an automatic multi-stage smart battery charger designed for all vehicle and deep cycle 12-volt lead-acid batteries. This microprocessor-controlled high-frequency switching mode charger offers multiple charging stages and modes to optimize battery life and performance. It includes features for bulk charging, absorption, and a maintenance stage with float pulse charging, along with a rejuvenator function.

2. Safety Information

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

• Ventilation: Always operate the charger in a well-ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of explosive gases.
• Sparks and Flames: Do not smoke, strike a match, or cause a spark in the vicinity of the battery or charger. Batteries generate explosive gases during normal operation.
• Polarity: Ensure correct polarity when connecting the charger to the battery. Connect the positive (+) charger lead to the positive (+) battery terminal and the negative (-) charger lead to the negative (-) battery terminal.
• Grounding: Do not connect the charger to a carburetor or an ungrounded battery post. Refer to your vehicle's instruction manual for specific grounding procedures.
• Connection Order: When connecting to a battery installed in a vehicle, connect the charger leads to the battery terminals first, then connect the AC power cord to a grounded electrical outlet. When disconnecting, always disconnect the AC power first, then the battery leads.
• Overcharging: Do not overcharge the battery. Refer to the instruction manual for recommended charging times and settings.
• Servicing: All servicing should be performed by qualified personnel.
• Household Use: This product is intended for household use only.

3. Product Overview

The Schauer Charge Master features an intuitive control panel and various connection accessories for versatile use.

Figure 3.1: Schauer Charge Master 12 Volt Battery Charger and its accessories, including alligator clips and ring terminals.

3.1. Control Panel and Indicators

The charger's front panel provides controls for selecting charge mode and battery type, along with indicators for charging status.

• Charge Mode Selection: Use the "Press" button under "CHARGE MODE" to cycle through:
  • 1A Maintain: For trickle charging and long-term maintenance. Fan OFF.
  • 8A Silent: For slower, quieter charging. Fan OFF.
  • 12A Rapid: For faster charging. Fan ON.
• Battery Type Selection: Use the "Press" button under "BATTERY TYPE" to select the appropriate battery chemistry:
  • Calcium
  • AGM & WET (Absorbed Glass Mat and Wet Cell/Flooded)
  • Gel
• Status Indicators:
  • Fault: Indicates an error or improper connection.
  • Bulk: Indicates the initial high-current charging phase.
  • Absorption: Indicates the constant voltage charging phase.
  • Full: Indicates the battery is fully charged and the charger is in maintenance mode.

3.2. Included Accessories

The charger comes with interchangeable battery connection cables:

• Alligator Clips: For temporary connections to battery terminals.
• Ring Terminals: For more permanent connections to battery posts.

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your Schauer Charge Master:

1. Choose Connection Type: Select either the alligator clips or ring terminals based on your application. Connect the chosen accessory cable to the charger's output port.
2. Prepare Battery: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion.
3. Connect to Battery:
   • Connect the red positive (+) charger lead to the positive (+) battery terminal.
   • Connect the black negative (-) charger lead to the negative (-) battery terminal.

   Note: For batteries installed in a vehicle, connect the negative lead to the vehicle chassis away from the battery if the battery's negative terminal is connected to the chassis. Always refer to your vehicle's manual.

4. Connect to Power: Plug the charger's AC power cord into a standard 110 Volt AC grounded electrical outlet.

5. Operating Instructions

Once connected, the charger will automatically begin its charging process. You can customize the charging parameters as follows:

1. Select Battery Type: Press the "Press" button under "BATTERY TYPE" repeatedly until the indicator light for your battery type (Calcium, AGM&WET, or Gel) is illuminated.
2. Select Charge Mode: Press the "Press" button under "CHARGE MODE" repeatedly until the indicator light for your desired charge current (1A, 8A, or 12A) is illuminated.
   • 1A Maintain: Ideal for long-term battery maintenance or very small batteries.
   • 8A Silent: A moderate charging rate suitable for most applications where noise is a concern.
   • 12A Rapid: The fastest charging rate for larger batteries or when quicker charging is needed. The internal fan will activate in this mode.
3. Monitor Charging Progress: Observe the status indicators:
   • The charger will start with a Soft-Start phase, gently ramping up the current.
   • It will then enter the Bulk Charge phase, delivering constant current until the battery reaches approximately 80% charge. The "Bulk" indicator will be lit.
   • Next is the Absorption Charge phase, where the charger maintains a constant voltage while the current gradually decreases. The "Absorption" indicator will be lit.
   • Finally, the charger transitions to the Maintenance Stage (Float Pulse Charging) once the battery is fully charged. The "Full" indicator will be lit, and the charger will provide small pulses of current to keep the battery at optimal charge, prolonging its life.
4. Disconnecting: To disconnect the charger, first unplug the AC power cord from the wall outlet, then disconnect the negative (-) battery lead, and finally the positive (+) battery lead.

6. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of your charger and batteries.

• Cleaning: Keep the charger clean and dry. Wipe the casing with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.
• Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect the power cord and battery leads 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. Ensure cables are neatly coiled to prevent damage.
• Battery Health: For optimal battery life, ensure batteries are regularly checked for fluid levels (if applicable for wet cells) and kept clean.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Schauer Charge Master, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

8. Specifications

Technical specifications for the Schauer Charge Master 12 Volt Battery Charger:

• Model: 0757-15
• Input Voltage: 110 Volts (DC)
• Output Voltage: 12 Volts
• Current Rating: 1A / 8A / 12A (selectable)
• Product Dimensions: 8.54 x 2.28 x 4.06 inches
• Item Weight: 2.81 pounds (1.28 Kilograms)
• Battery Types Supported: Calcium, AGM, Wet (Flooded), Gel 12V Lead-Acid Batteries
• Charging Stages: Soft-Start, Bulk Charge, Absorption Charge, Maintenance (Float Pulse)

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please contact Schauer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Note: No official product videos were available for inclusion in this manual.