1. Product Overview
The Einhell CE-BC 6 M is an intelligent, microprocessor-controlled battery charger designed for a wide range of 12V vehicle battery types, including gel, AGM, and maintenance-free/low-maintenance lead-acid batteries. This advanced charger features a multi-stage charging cycle, automatic voltage adaptation (12V), and specialized modes for optimal battery care. Its intelligent electronics analyze the connected battery's type and condition to initiate the most suitable charging process, ensuring a gentle and efficient charge for extended battery life.
Key features include a maintenance charge function to prevent deep discharge, a Winter Mode for charging below 5°C, a Recondition Mode for deeply discharged batteries, and a Power Supply Mode. The unit is equipped with comprehensive safety protections against overload, short circuits, and reverse polarity, safeguarding both the charger and the battery. An LCD display provides real-time information on battery voltage and charging progress.
Figure 1: Einhell CE-BC 6 M Battery Charger. The device is predominantly red and black, featuring an LCD display that shows '13.4V' and a battery charge indicator. Attached are red and black insulated battery clamps, ready for connection. The top of the unit has a black hanging eyelet for convenient storage.
2. Safety Instructions
Before operating the Einhell CE-BC 6 M battery charger, please read and understand all safety instructions. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with batteries. Batteries can produce explosive gases.
- Ventilation: Ensure the charging area is well-ventilated. Do not operate the charger in a confined space.
- Flammable Materials: Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from the battery and charger.
- Battery Type: This charger is designed for 12V lead-acid, gel, and AGM batteries. Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries or batteries with different voltage ratings.
- Frozen Batteries: Never attempt to charge a frozen battery. Allow it to thaw before charging.
- Connections: Always connect the charger to the battery before plugging it into the mains power supply. Disconnect from the mains before disconnecting the battery.
- Damaged Equipment: Do not operate the charger if the power cord, clamps, or charger unit itself is damaged. Contact qualified service personnel for repair.
- Children and Pets: Keep the charger and battery out of reach of children and pets.
- Reverse Polarity: The charger has reverse polarity protection, but always double-check connections to prevent damage.
3. Setup and Preparation
- Unpack: Carefully remove the charger and all accessories from the packaging.
- Inspect: Check the charger, cables, and clamps for any signs of damage. Do not use if damaged.
- Ventilation: Place the charger in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
- Battery Preparation:
- For conventional lead-acid batteries, check the electrolyte level and top up with distilled water if necessary (do not overfill).
- Clean the battery terminals to ensure good electrical contact.
- Ensure the battery is not frozen.
- Mounting (Optional): The charger housing includes an eyelet for wall mounting, allowing for convenient storage and use.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Connecting the Charger
- Connect Positive: Attach the red (+) battery clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
- Connect Negative: Attach the black (-) battery clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the battery.
- Connect to Mains: Plug the charger's power cord into a standard 230V AC wall outlet. The charger will power on and perform an initial self-check.
4.2. Selecting Charging Mode
The Einhell CE-BC 6 M automatically detects the battery type and condition. Use the mode button (if present, or refer to the display for automatic selection) to cycle through available modes if manual selection is required for specific functions.
- Standard Charge: The charger will automatically select the appropriate multi-stage charging cycle for 12V batteries.
- Winter Mode (below 5°C): Activates a specialized charging curve for optimal performance in cold temperatures.
- Recondition Mode: Designed to revive deeply discharged batteries. This mode applies a specific charging profile to attempt recovery.
- Power Supply Mode: Allows the charger to function as a stable 12V power supply, useful for maintaining vehicle electronics during battery changes or diagnostics.
4.3. Monitoring the Charging Process
The LCD display provides real-time information:
- Battery Voltage: Shows the current voltage of the connected battery.
- Charging Progress: Indicates the current stage of the charging cycle.
- Mode Indicator: Displays the active charging mode (e.g., Winter, Recondition).
- Battery Status: A graphical representation of the battery's charge level.
The charger will automatically switch to maintenance charge mode once the battery is fully charged, preventing overcharging and maintaining optimal battery health.
4.4. Disconnecting the Charger
- Disconnect Mains: Unplug the charger's power cord from the wall outlet.
- Disconnect Negative: Detach the black (-) battery clamp from the negative (-) terminal of the battery.
- Disconnect Positive: Detach the red (+) battery clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
5. Maintenance and Storage
- Cleaning: Disconnect the charger from the mains and battery before cleaning. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect the power cord and battery cables for any signs of damage, fraying, or exposed wires. Replace damaged cables immediately.
- Clamp Care: Keep the battery clamps clean and free of corrosion to ensure good electrical contact.
- Storage: Store the charger in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Ensure cables are neatly coiled and not kinked.
- Long-Term Storage: If the charger is not used for an extended period, ensure it is stored in its original packaging or a protective container.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger does not turn on. | No power from mains outlet. Damaged power cord. | Check the wall outlet with another appliance. Inspect power cord for damage; do not use if damaged. |
| Battery not charging. | Incorrect battery connection. Battery is severely discharged or faulty. Incorrect mode selected. | Ensure clamps are securely connected to correct terminals. Try Recondition Mode for deeply discharged batteries. If still no charge, battery may be beyond recovery. Verify the correct charging mode is active on the LCD display. |
| "Error" or warning on display. | Reverse polarity connection. Short circuit. Overload. | Disconnect from mains, then reconnect clamps correctly (red to +, black to -). Check for short circuits in cables or clamps. Ensure battery capacity is within charger's specifications. |
| Charger gets warm during operation. | Normal operation. | A slight increase in temperature is normal during charging. Ensure adequate ventilation. If excessively hot, disconnect and contact support. |
7. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Einhell |
| Model Number | 1002235 (CE-BC 6 M) |
| Input Voltage | 120 Volts (AC) |
| Output Voltage | 12 Volts (DC) |
| Charging Current | 6 Amperes |
| Compatible Battery Types | Lead-acid, Gel, AGM (12V) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 34 cm x 15 cm x 8 cm |
| Item Weight | 1.32 Pounds (approx. 0.6 kg) |
| Connector Type | Battery Clamps |
| International Article Code (EAN) | 04006825640328 |
8. Warranty and Support
Einhell products are manufactured to high-quality standards and undergo strict quality controls. This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Einhell website.
It is recommended to register your product for warranty purposes, which may extend the warranty period (e.g., to 3 years as mentioned in some product information). Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, spare parts, or warranty inquiries, please contact Einhell customer service. Contact details can typically be found on the official Einhell website or in the product documentation.
When contacting support, please have the following information ready:
- Product Model: CE-BC 6 M
- Article Number: 1002235
- Date of Purchase
- Description of the issue
