1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your VOTRONIC VCC 1212-50 50A DC/DC Booster Charger. The VCC 1212-50 is designed to accelerate the charging of leisure batteries, compatible with Euro 6 intelligent alternators, and optimized for charging Lithium batteries. It is recommended for battery capacities ranging from 75 Ah to 320 Ah.
Figure 1: VOTRONIC VCC 1212-50 50A DC/DC Booster Charger. This image shows the compact, silver-colored device with various connection terminals and indicator lights on its front panel, including inputs for D+, Vs-, Vs+, and outputs for Bord OUT, T, Vb-, Vb+. It also features two RJ45 ports labeled Display and BUS, and a Votronic logo.
2. Safety Instructions
Please read and understand all safety instructions before installation and operation. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Qualified Personnel: Installation and maintenance should only be performed by qualified personnel.
- Disconnect Power: Always disconnect all power sources before working on the device or its connections.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.
- Correct Wiring: Use appropriate cable cross-sections as specified in the installation guidelines to prevent overheating and voltage drops.
- Battery Type: Ensure the charger settings match your battery type (Lead-Acid, AGM, Gel, LiFePO4).
- Temperature Sensor: Connect the included battery temperature sensor for optimal and safe charging, especially for lead-acid batteries.
- Moisture Protection: Protect the device from moisture and direct water exposure.
3. Product Features
The VOTRONIC VCC 1212-50 offers advanced features for efficient and safe battery charging:
- B2B Charging: A B2B (Battery-to-Battery) charger without galvanic isolation, designed to charge 12V leisure batteries from a 12V starter battery/alternator.
- Output Current: Provides a charging current of 50 A.
- Voltage Regulation: Increases or decreases voltage as needed to provide optimal charging for the leisure battery, compensating for line losses and alternator voltage fluctuations (common in Euro 6 intelligent alternators).
- Compact Design: Features a compact form factor and light weight due to high-frequency switch-mode technology.
- Enhanced Energy Balance: Improves the energy balance of the leisure battery without interfering with the starter circuit.
- Protection Features: 12V consumers are protected against overvoltages and voltage fluctuations. The charging voltage is regulated to prevent battery overcharging.
- Automatic Operation: The device is constantly connected and automatically activated by the alternator when the vehicle is running. It does not discharge batteries when the engine is off.
- Temperature Sensor: Includes a connection for a battery temperature sensor (sensor included) to adjust charging voltage for lead-acid batteries based on temperature, preventing gassing and optimizing charge.
- Simultaneous Consumption: Continues to charge or maintain the battery even with simultaneous power consumption.
- Unsupervised Charging: Multiple protections against overload, overheating, overvoltage, short circuits, errors, and reverse discharge.
- Parallel Operation: Can operate in parallel with other charging sources on the same battery.
- LiFePO4 Compatibility: Provides high-load battery protection and is adapted for low temperatures below 0°C for LiFePO4 batteries.
- Deeply Discharged Lead-Acid Battery Aid: Features gentle pre-charging for deeply discharged lead-acid batteries (down to 8V) before powerful charging commences.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and safety of the VCC 1212-50. Refer to the detailed wiring diagram provided with your product packaging for specific connections.
4.1 Mounting
Mount the unit in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. The robust aluminum casing and active cooling ensure safe operation, even under full load.
4.2 Electrical Connections
- Input (Starter Battery): Connect the input terminals (Start IN) to your 12V starter battery. Ensure adequate cable cross-section to minimize voltage drop, especially for long cable runs.
- Output (Leisure Battery): Connect the output terminals (Bord OUT) to your 12V leisure battery.
- D+ Signal (Optional): The charger can be activated via voltage-based detection or a D+ signal from the alternator. If using D+ signal, connect it to the designated terminal.
- Temperature Sensor: Connect the included temperature sensor to the 'T' terminal and attach it to the leisure battery for accurate temperature compensation during charging.
- Voltage Sense Lines (Optional): For very long cable runs or significant voltage drops, additional voltage sense lines (Vs+, Vs-) may be required to ensure precise voltage regulation at the battery terminals.
4.3 Configuration (DIP Switches)
The VCC 1212-50 features small DIP switches for configuring various parameters, such as battery type and charging characteristics. Refer to the detailed configuration table in the product's main manual for correct settings based on your battery type (e.g., Lead-Acid, Gel, AGM, LiFePO4).
5. Operating Instructions
The VOTRONIC VCC 1212-50 is designed for fully automatic operation once correctly installed and configured.
- Automatic Activation: The device automatically activates approximately 30 seconds after the vehicle engine starts (or D+ signal is detected), initiating the charging process for the leisure battery.
- Charging Process: The charger will deliver up to 50A of current, adjusting voltage to ensure optimal charging based on battery type and temperature (if sensor is connected).
- Engine Off: When the vehicle engine is turned off, the charger will typically continue to charge for about 30 seconds with a reduced current (e.g., 2.3A) before completely shutting down. This prevents discharge of the starter battery.
- Indicator Lights: Monitor the indicator lights on the unit for status information (e.g., Battery Full, Main Charge, Current, Bord Out, Start IN, Power).
- Parallel Charging: The VCC 1212-50 can operate in parallel with other charging sources (e.g., solar chargers, mains chargers) connected to the same leisure battery.
6. Maintenance
The VOTRONIC VCC 1212-50 is a low-maintenance device. Regular checks can help ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
- Cleanliness: Keep the unit clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry, soft cloth for cleaning.
- Connections: Periodically check all electrical connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not obstructed.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures or high humidity.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VCC 1212-50, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger not activating/no charge current. | No input voltage from starter battery; Engine not running; Incorrect D+ signal; Blown fuse; Loose connections. | Check starter battery voltage; Start vehicle engine; Verify D+ signal connection; Check and replace fuses; Secure all electrical connections. |
| Low charge current. | Undersized cables; High resistance in connections; Overheating (thermal protection); Battery full. | Ensure correct cable cross-section; Check for loose or corroded connections; Ensure adequate ventilation; Check battery charge status. |
| Unit is hot. | Normal operation under load; Insufficient ventilation. | Some heat is normal. Ensure clear airflow around the unit. If excessively hot and unit shuts down, check for obstructions. |
| Battery not fully charging. | Incorrect DIP switch settings for battery type; Faulty battery; Temperature sensor issue. | Verify DIP switch settings against your battery type; Test leisure battery condition; Ensure temperature sensor is correctly connected and functioning. |
If problems persist after attempting these steps, please contact VOTRONIC customer support or a qualified technician.
8. Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | VOTRONIC |
| Model Number | 3326 (VCC 1212-50) |
| Input Voltage | 12 Volts DC |
| Output Voltage | 12 Volts DC |
| Rated Current | 50 A |
| Recommended Battery Capacity | 75 - 440 Ah |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 13.5 x 16 x 7.2 cm |
| Weight | 0.95 kg |
| Color | White/Silver |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official VOTRONIC website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Figure 2: VOTRONIC Electronic-Systeme GmbH & Co. KG Logo. This image displays the Votronic company logo, featuring the brand name in bold blue letters with "Electronic-Systeme GmbH & Co. KG" underneath.
