1. Introduction
The Simarine Pico Blue Battery Monitor System Set is a comprehensive solution for monitoring various aspects of your power system. It provides real-time data on battery voltage, state of charge, remaining ampere-hours, time to charge or discharge, and battery compartment temperature. Designed for multi-voltage systems (12V, 24V, 48V), the Pico Blue set includes shunts with multiple resistance, voltage, and current inputs, along with programmable alarm signal relays.
The Pico Blue features a sleek, slim, and compact design with a high-resolution 3.5-inch IPS screen, Gorilla Glass, a polarizing filter, and automatic illumination. Its IP67-rated anodized aluminum unibody case ensures water and dust resistance. The system is compatible with both lead-acid and lithium batteries, including LiFePO4, AGM, GEL, Deep Cycle, Wet Free, and Wet Low types.
An accompanying Simarine App allows users to monitor live data for batteries, tanks, temperatures, barograph, appliance consumption, and auxiliary generators, as well as configure the Pico and upgrade its firmware.
Image 1.1: The Simarine Pico Blue display unit showing battery status and individual load monitoring.
2. What's Included
The Simarine Pico Blue Battery Monitor System Set includes the following components:
- PICO Monitor Display Unit
- Combo Shunt SC503 (500A current input, 2 resistance inputs, 1 temperature sensor socket)
- Tank Level and Voltage Module ST107 (3 voltage inputs, 4 resistance inputs, 1 alarm signal relay)
- Quadro Shunt Module SCQ25 (4 current inputs, 25A continuous per device, 1 alarm signal relay)
- 5m Data Cable
- 3m Fuse Protected Voltmeter Cable
- 1m Temperature Sensor with Connector
- Splitter
- Double-Sided Tape
- Screws, Threaded Rods, Nuts, Brackets for mounting
- Shunt Cover
- Mounting Template
- Quick Guide
- Warranty Information
Image 2.1: Components included in the Simarine Pico Blue Set.
3. Setup and Installation
Careful installation is crucial for the accurate and reliable operation of your Simarine Pico Blue system. Refer to the included Quick Guide and mounting template for detailed physical installation instructions.
3.1 Mounting the Display
The Pico display is available in Panel-Mount and Bezel types. Use the provided mounting template to cut the appropriate opening and secure the display using the supplied screws, threaded rods, nuts, and brackets.
3.2 Wiring Shunts and Modules
Connect the shunts and modules to your battery system and other sensors as follows:
- Shunt Wiring: Shunts can be wired to either the LOW (-) or HIGH (+) side of the system if the voltage does not exceed 35V. If the system voltage is above 35V, the shunt must be wired to the LOW (-) side. This is particularly relevant for retrofitting existing boats, campervans, trailers, and RVs.
- Data Cable: Use the 5m data cable to connect the Pico display to the shunt network.
- Voltmeter Cable: Connect the 3m fuse-protected voltmeter cable for accurate voltage readings.
- Temperature Sensor: Connect the 1m temperature sensor to the designated socket on the SC503 Combo Shunt to monitor battery compartment temperature.
- SCQ25 Module: Connect up to four appliances to the SCQ25 Quadro Shunt Module for individual power consumption monitoring.
4. Operating Instructions
The Simarine Pico Blue system provides comprehensive real-time data and allows for advanced monitoring and configuration.
4.1 Display Navigation
The 3.5-inch IPS screen features intuitive controls for navigating through various data screens. Use the touch-sensitive buttons or gestures (if applicable) to view different parameters such as battery status, tank levels, and individual appliance consumption.
Image 4.1: Understanding battery data displayed on the Pico monitor.
4.2 Monitoring Capabilities
- Battery Monitoring: View voltage, state of charge (%), remaining ampere-hours (Ah), and estimated time until full charge or discharge. The system supports 12V, 24V, and 48V battery systems.
- Tank Monitoring: The ST107 module allows for monitoring of various tank levels (e.g., fresh water, fuel, waste water).
- Appliance Monitoring: The SCQ25 module enables monitoring of up to four individual appliances (e.g., refrigerator, lights, cooktop, solar panels) with continuous current up to 25A per device.
- Temperature Monitoring: Track battery compartment temperature via the connected sensor.
- Alarm Relays: Utilize the two built-in, programmable alarm signal relays for critical system alerts.
Image 4.2: Real-time data overview on the Simarine Pico display.
4.3 Simarine Mobile App
Download the Simarine App from your device's app store to access advanced features:
- Monitor live data remotely for all connected sensors.
- Configure system settings and parameters.
- Perform firmware upgrades for your Pico unit.
Image 4.3: Accessing live data and managing settings via the Simarine app.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Simarine Pico Blue system, follow these general maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Gently wipe the display screen and unit casing with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to inaccurate readings or system malfunctions.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates via the Simarine App to benefit from new features and performance improvements.
- Environmental Protection: While the unit is IP67-rated, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures or direct water immersion beyond its specified limits.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Simarine Pico Blue system, consider the following basic troubleshooting steps:
- No Display/Power: Verify all power connections to the Pico unit and shunts. Check fuses in the power supply line.
- Inaccurate Readings: Ensure all sensor connections are secure and correctly wired according to the installation guide. Calibrate sensors if necessary through the system settings or Simarine App.
- Communication Issues: If the Pico App cannot connect, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device and the Pico unit is powered on. Restart both the app and the Pico unit if necessary.
- Alarm Malfunctions: Check the alarm settings within the Pico unit or Simarine App to ensure they are configured correctly. Verify the wiring of any external alarm relays.
For more detailed troubleshooting or persistent issues, refer to the comprehensive manual available on the Simarine website or contact Simarine customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Pico Blue |
| Manufacturer | Simarine |
| Display | 3.5-inch IPS, Gorilla Glass, Polarizing Filter, Automatic Illumination |
| Enclosure Rating | IP67 (Water and Dust Resistant) |
| Enclosure Material | Anodized Aluminum Unibody |
| Battery Compatibility | Lead Acid (AGM, GEL, Deep Cycle, Wet Free, Wet Low), Lithium (LiFePO4) |
| Supported Voltages | 12V, 24V, 48V |
| SC503 Combo Shunt | 500A Current Input, 6 Resistance Inputs, 5 Voltage Inputs, 1 Temperature Sensor Socket |
| SCQ25 Quadro Shunt Module | 4 Current Inputs (max 25A continuous per device) |
| Alarm Relays | 2 Built-in, Programmable |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth (for Simarine App) |
| Item Weight | 4.54 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 10.12 x 9.06 x 7.99 inches |
| First Available Date | June 30, 2023 |
Image 7.1: Simarine Pico Blue system is compatible with a wide range of battery types.
8. Warranty and Support
The Simarine Pico Blue Battery Monitor System Set comes with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty information included in your product packaging for specific terms and conditions.
For technical support, additional documentation, or to register your product, please visit the official Simarine website. Firmware updates and further configuration options are available through the Simarine mobile application.
