Gallagher North America G38914

Gallagher MBS200 Solar Electric Fence Charger User Manual

Model: G38914

Introduction

The Gallagher MBS200 is a versatile multi-power electric fence charger designed for reliable performance in various environments. It delivers 2.0 stored joules of low impedance power, capable of energizing up to 90 acres or 14 miles of multi-wire permanent fence. This charger offers flexible power options, including 110V AC, 12V battery, or solar power (with optional solar panel), making it suitable for rotational grazing, remote pastures, or off-grid systems. Its robust design ensures durability in diverse weather conditions.

Figure 1: Gallagher MBS200 Solar Electric Fence Charger, a compact black unit with orange and green buttons and an LED indicator bar.

Safety Information

Read all instructions carefully before operating the fence charger. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Do not connect the energizer to any other multi-wire fence system.
Ensure proper grounding of the energizer. A good ground system is crucial for effective and safe operation.
Keep children and animals away from the electric fence.
Disconnect the energizer from the power source before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Do not operate the energizer if it is damaged.
Install the energizer in a dry, well-ventilated area, protected from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions. The unit is water-resistant but not submersible.
Use only Gallagher approved accessories and replacement parts.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package before proceeding with installation.

Gallagher MBS200 Energizer Unit
Plug-in/Battery Lead Set (for connecting to AC power or 12V battery)
User Manual (this document)

Gallagher MBS200 package contents including energizer and lead set

Figure 2: The MBS200 Energizer and its included plug-in/battery lead set.

Note: A 12V battery and solar panel are sold separately and are not included with the MBS200 energizer.

Setup

The MBS200 offers flexible setup options for AC, battery, or solar power. Choose the method that best suits your needs.

1. Site Selection

Choose a location that is dry, protected from direct rain and excessive dust.
Ensure the location allows for easy access to the power source (AC outlet, battery, or sunlight for solar).
For solar installations, select a spot with maximum sun exposure throughout the day.

2. Grounding System Installation

A robust grounding system is essential for the energizer's performance and safety.

Drive at least three 6-foot (1.8m) galvanized steel ground rods into the earth, spaced at least 10 feet (3m) apart.
Connect the ground rods together using galvanized wire and ground clamps.
Connect the energizer's ground terminal (green terminal) to the grounding system using the provided lead set.

3. Connecting to Power Source

The MBS200 supports multiple power inputs:

a. AC Power (110V)

Ensure the energizer is turned off.
Connect the AC adapter (part of the lead set) to the energizer's power input port.
Plug the AC adapter into a standard 110V outlet.

b. 12V Battery Power

Ensure the energizer is turned off.
Connect the red clip of the battery lead set to the positive (+) terminal of a 12V deep cycle battery.
Connect the black clip of the battery lead set to the negative (-) terminal of the 12V deep cycle battery.
Connect the other end of the battery lead set to the energizer's power input port.

c. Solar Power (with optional solar panel)

Ensure the energizer is turned off.
Connect the solar panel to a 12V deep cycle battery (battery and solar panel sold separately). Follow the solar panel manufacturer's instructions for proper connection.
Connect the MBS200 to the 12V battery using the battery lead set as described in section 3b.
Position the solar panel to receive maximum direct sunlight throughout the day.

Gallagher MBS200 connected to a solar panel and fence

Figure 3: The MBS200 energizer integrated into a solar-powered fence system.

4. Connecting to Fence Line

Connect the red terminal (fence output) of the energizer to the electric fence line using appropriate high-voltage insulated wire.
Ensure all fence connections are secure and insulated to prevent power loss.

Operating Instructions

Once the energizer is properly set up and connected, you can begin operation.

1. Powering On

Ensure all connections (ground, fence, power) are correct and secure.
Turn on the energizer using the power switch or by connecting the power source if it's not already active.

2. Monitoring Fence Performance

The MBS200 features a built-in LED bar graph for quick visual monitoring of fence voltage and battery status.

Green LEDs: Indicate good fence voltage and performance. More green LEDs lit means higher voltage.
Yellow/Red LEDs: Indicate lower fence voltage. A flashing red light specifically indicates a low battery warning when operating on battery power.

Gallagher MBS200 LED bar graph showing fence voltage and battery status

Figure 4: The MBS200's LED bar graph provides instant feedback on fence voltage and battery health.

Regularly check the LED indicators to ensure your fence is operating effectively and to identify potential issues early.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your MBS200 energizer.

Regular Cleaning: Keep the energizer unit clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all connections (fence, ground, power) for corrosion, looseness, or damage. Ensure they are tight and secure.
Ground System Inspection: Annually check your grounding system. Ensure ground rods are fully driven and connections are solid. A poor ground system can significantly reduce energizer performance.
Battery Maintenance (if applicable): If using a 12V battery, ensure it is regularly charged and maintained according to the battery manufacturer's instructions. Avoid deep discharge, which can shorten battery life.
Fence Line Inspection: Regularly walk your fence line to check for shorts caused by vegetation, broken insulators, or damaged wires. Clear any vegetation touching the fence.
Lightning Protection: The MBS200 has built-in lightning protection. However, for added protection in lightning-prone areas, consider installing external lightning diverters.

Gallagher MBS200 in a field, illustrating its durability in various weather conditions

Figure 5: The MBS200 is designed for robust performance and reliability in diverse weather conditions, requiring minimal maintenance.

Troubleshooting

If your MBS200 energizer is not performing as expected, refer to the following common issues and solutions:

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No lights on energizer / No output	No power to energizer Faulty power supply/battery Internal fault	Check AC outlet, battery connections, or solar panel output. Test power supply/battery with another device. Replace if faulty. Contact Gallagher support if power is present but no lights.
Low fence voltage (few green LEDs, or yellow/red LEDs)	Poor grounding system Fence shorting (vegetation, broken insulators) Overloaded fence (too long for energizer) Low battery (if battery powered)	Improve grounding system (add more rods, check connections). Inspect fence line for shorts. Clear vegetation, replace faulty insulators. Reduce fence length or upgrade to a more powerful energizer. Recharge or replace 12V battery.
Flashing red LED	Low 12V battery voltage	Recharge or replace the 12V battery. Ensure solar panel is clean and receiving adequate sunlight if applicable.
Energizer clicking rapidly	Severe fence short Internal fault	Disconnect fence and check if clicking stops. If so, find and fix fence short. If clicking persists with fence disconnected, contact Gallagher support.

Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model Number	G38914 (MBS200)
Stored Energy	2.0 Joules
Power Output	Powers up to 90 acres / 14 miles of multi-wire fence
Power Options	110V AC, 12V Battery, Solar (with optional solar panel)
Product Dimensions	4.5 x 9 x 9 inches (11.4 x 22.9 x 22.9 cm)
Item Weight	4.4 pounds (2 kg)
Manufacturer	GALLAGHER NORTH AMERICA
Built-in Features	LED Voltage Monitoring Bar Graph, Low Battery Warning, Lightning Protection

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Gallagher North America directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Gallagher North America Contact Information:

Please refer to the official Gallagher North America website or product packaging for the most current contact details.
Online Resources: www.gallagher.com/us/en/