Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Redodo 12V 40A DC to DC Charger with MPPT. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure safe and efficient operation.
The Redodo 12V 40A DC to DC Charger is designed to efficiently charge your service battery from either a starter battery or solar panels, making the service battery 100% charged more flexibly. With built-in MPPT technology, the charger is able to achieve a high charging efficiency from solar panels at a suitable voltage. The user-friendly indicators on the charger makes it possible for the user to easily know the charging status of the service battery.
Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent personal injury or damage to the charger and connected equipment:
- Ensure all connections are secure and correct before operation.
- Do not expose the charger to water or excessive moisture.
- Operate the charger in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not disassemble or attempt to repair the charger yourself. Contact Redodo customer service for assistance.
- Verify battery compatibility before connecting.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, when working with batteries.
Product Overview
The Redodo 12V 40A DC to DC Charger is a compact and robust unit designed for efficient battery charging in mobile applications. It integrates MPPT technology for solar input and offers multiple safety features.
Image: Front view of the Redodo 12V 40A DC to DC Charger, showing its compact design and integrated wiring with Anderson connectors.
Key Features:
- Dual Input: Charges from starter battery or solar panels.
- MPPT Technology: Maximizes solar charging efficiency.
- User-Friendly LED Indicators: Provides clear charging status.
- Multiple Protections: Includes over-charge, over-voltage, overheating, reverse polarity, and BMS protection for LiFePO4 batteries.
- Compact Design: Space-saving and easy to install.
- Wide Compatibility: Supports GEL, SLA, FLD, and Lithium battery types.
Package Contents:
Image: Contents of the Redodo 12V 40A DC to DC Charger package, including the charger unit, user manual, mounting screws, Anderson connectors, and crimp terminals.
- Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC Charger x 1
- User Manual x 1
- Mounting Screws x 6
- Anderson Connector x 3
- Crimp terminal x 6
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and safety of your DC to DC charger. Follow these steps carefully.
1. Mounting the Charger:
Select a dry, well-ventilated location for mounting the charger. Ensure there is sufficient space around the unit for air circulation and cable connections. Use the provided mounting screws to secure the charger to a stable surface.
Image: The Redodo DC to DC Charger mounted on a wall inside an RV, demonstrating a typical installation location.
2. Wiring Diagram and Connections:
The charger features clearly labeled input and output terminals. Use appropriate gauge wiring for all connections to ensure optimal performance and safety. The built-in Anderson connectors simplify the wiring process.
Image: Detailed wiring diagram for the Redodo DC to DC Charger, showing connections to the starter battery, service battery, solar panel, and optional ACC wire for smart alternators.
- DC Input Terminal: Connect to the starter battery. Ensure proper polarity.
- Solar Input Terminal: Connect to your solar panels. The integrated MPPT controller will optimize charging.
- Output Terminal: Connect to your service battery.
- ACC Wire (Optional): For vehicles with smart alternators, connect this wire to an ignition-switched positive source. This ensures the charger operates only when the engine is running, protecting the starter battery from discharge.
Image: An illustrative diagram showing the Redodo DC to DC Charger installed within a van, connecting solar panels, a starter battery, and a service battery.
Image: Diagram illustrating the optional ACC wire connection for smart alternators, ensuring the charger activates only when the vehicle engine is running.
Operating Instructions
1. Selecting Battery Type:
The charger is compatible with various battery types. Use the "SELECT" button on the charger to choose the correct battery chemistry for your service battery. The LED indicators will show the currently selected type.
Image: The Redodo DC to DC Charger displaying its battery type selection options, including Lithium, AGM/GEL, SLA, and CA batteries.
| Battery Type | Description |
|---|---|
| LI (Lithium) | For LiFePO4 batteries. The charger provides BMS protection and can activate shut-off LiFePO4 batteries. |
| AGM/GEL | For Absorbed Glass Mat and Gel lead-acid batteries. |
| SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) | For Sealed Lead Acid batteries. |
| CA (Calcium) | For Calcium lead-acid batteries. |
2. Understanding LED Indicators:
The charger features intuitive LED indicators to provide real-time status updates.
Image: Close-up view of the Redodo DC to DC Charger's LED indicators, showing "CHARGE STATUS" (Power On, Charging, Fully Charged, Solar Charging) and "BATTERY TYPE" (SLA, AGM/GEL, CA, LI).
- CHARGE STATUS:
- Power On: Indicates the unit is receiving power.
- Charging: Indicates the service battery is actively being charged.
- Fully Charged: Indicates the service battery has reached full capacity.
- Solar Charging: Indicates charging is primarily from solar input.
- BATTERY TYPE:
- SLA, AGM/GEL, CA, LI: Indicates the selected battery type.
3. Reverse Charge Function:
The charger supports reverse charging the starter battery through the service battery, thus protecting the starter battery & alternator from damage due to over-discharge. Besides, this charger can activate the LiFePO4 battery when the BMS inside the battery shuts off. Press the "REVERSE CHARGE" button to activate this function when needed.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Redodo DC to DC Charger, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the charger clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry, soft cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are tight and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to poor performance or overheating.
- Ventilation: Ensure the area around the charger remains clear to allow for proper airflow and heat dissipation. The charger is designed with heat dissipation fins.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the charger to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or high humidity.
Image: Illustration showing airflow and heat dissipation from the Redodo DC to DC Charger's cooling fins, highlighting the importance of proper ventilation.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Redodo DC to DC Charger, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger not turning on (no LEDs) | No input power; Loose connections; Blown fuse. | Check input power source (starter battery/solar). Verify all connections are secure. Check and replace any blown fuses in the wiring. |
| Service battery not charging | Incorrect battery type selected; Loose output connection; Faulty service battery; Insufficient input power. | Ensure the correct battery type is selected on the charger. Check the output connections to the service battery. Test the service battery independently. Verify adequate voltage from starter battery or solar panels. |
| Overheating indication | Poor ventilation; Overload; High ambient temperature. | Ensure the charger has sufficient airflow. Reduce the load if possible. Relocate the charger to a cooler environment if ambient temperature is too high. |
| Solar charging not active | Insufficient sunlight; Faulty solar panel connection; Solar panel voltage too low/high. | Ensure solar panels are in direct sunlight. Check solar input connections. Verify solar panel voltage is within the charger's operating range. |
| Reverse polarity protection active | Incorrect wiring polarity. | Immediately disconnect power and correct the wiring polarity. Refer to the wiring diagram. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Redodo customer support for further assistance.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 644097643827 |
| Input Voltage | 12V DC (from starter battery or solar) |
| Output Current | 40A |
| Output Voltage | 14.6 Volts (DC) |
| Supported Battery Types | AGM, Gel, SLA, Lithium (LiFePO4) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 7.44 x 5.83 x 1.89 inches (18.9 x 14.8 x 4.8 cm) |
| Weight | 2.43 pounds (1.1 kg) |
| Color | Silver |
| Manufacturer | Redodo |
| Country of Origin | China |
Image: The Redodo DC to DC Charger with its dimensions clearly labeled: 7.44 inches length, 5.83 inches width, and 1.89 inches height.
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
Redodo offers a 5-year guarantee on this product. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
The product is designed for a 10-year lifespan under proper usage and maintenance.
Image: Icon indicating a 10-year lifespan for Redodo products.
Image: Icon indicating a 5-year guarantee for Redodo products.
Customer Support:
Redodo provides one-on-one customer service and lifetime technical support. If you have any questions, require assistance with installation, or need to make a warranty claim, please contact us through the following channels:
- Website: Visit the official Redodo website for FAQs, support resources, and contact information.
- Email: Refer to your product packaging or the Redodo website for the customer service email address.
- Phone: Contact details may be available on the Redodo website.
Redodo aims for a 24-hour response time for customer inquiries.
Image: Icon representing 24-hour customer response from Redodo.
