iTECHDCDC25/40 Intelligent Battery Chargers
USER GUIDE
QUICK START GUIDE
Step 1.
Connect the auxiliary battery to the iTECHDCDC charger output via a fuse.
Step 2.
Connect the cranking battery to the iTECHDCDC charger input via a fuse.
Step 3.
Connect the solar panels to the iTECHDCDC charger solar input via a fuse.
Step 4.
Connect the ignition wire to an ignition-controlled power source.
Step 5.
Start the vehicle and verify that your iTECHDCDC charger is outputting power. You will know the iTECHDCDC is outputting power when the battery type LED is solid, and the alternator/solar LED is flashing.
Source | Model | DCDC25 | DCDC40 |
---|---|---|---|
Charger Input | 40A | 60A | |
Charger Output | 40A | 60A | |
Solar Input | 40A | 60A | |
Ignition | 3A | 3A |
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
iTECHDCDC chargers are suitable for charging all common types of automotive or recreational 12V batteries, such as standard lead acid, gel, AGM, calcium or LiFePO4 (Lithium iron/Ferro phosphate) chemistry lithium batteries. They can operate on both 12V and 24V alternators, as well as unregulated 12V nominal solar input. Notably, the iTECHDCDC charger range features a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar regulator, which maximises power harvested from connected solar panels, thus increasing charging efficiency.
Designed with this high efficiency in mind, iTECHDCDC chargers are compact and suitable for installations with limited space. They carry an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, meaning they are fully protected from the elements. Additionally, they are engineered to isolate the auxiliary battery from the cranking battery, preventing over-discharge of the cranking battery.
KEY FEATURES
- Suitable for charging common types of automotive or recreational 12V lead acid and LiFePO4 lithium batteries.
- 40A or 25A MPPT Solar Regulator.
- Dual input from both solar and alternator.
- Charging efficiency of up to 95%.
- Excellent performance in harsh environments.
- Smart alternator compatible.
- Inbuilt low-voltage, over-voltage, over-temperature and reverse polarity protection.
- Isolates the cranking battery from the auxiliary battery.
- Automatically brings iTechworld lithium batteries out of safe mode.
- IP67 rated waterproof.
Package Contents
- iTECHDCDC25 or 40 chargers.
- Colour Coded Anderson Plugs (3 are pre-installed).
- User Guide.
DISPLAY PANEL
The display panel features indicator LEDs for [Alternator LED], [Solar LED], and [Fault LED] status. It also includes a [Mode Button] and indicators for battery types: [STD Battery], [GEL Battery], [AGM Battery], [CAL Battery], and [LiFePO4 Battery]. A [Solar Priority LED] is also present.
BATTERY CHARGING PROFILE
To modify the battery charging profile, press the 'Mode' button for 1.5 seconds. The battery type indicator will move one LED to the right. A delay of up to 2 minutes may occur before the charger starts the charging process after changes.
SOLAR PRIORITY
The iTECHDCDC40 and iTECHDCDC25 are set up with alternator priority by default. If you prefer solar charging regardless of efficiency, or if your auxiliary battery has a small load, you can enable the "Solar Priority" function. When enabled, the charger will select input power from the solar input if it's above the minimum required power. This may also take up to 2 minutes to take effect.
To turn "Solar Priority" ON: Press and hold the “Solar Priority” button for 1.5 seconds, then release. The indicator will turn on.
To turn "Solar Priority" OFF: Press and hold the “Solar Priority” button for 1.5 seconds, then release. The indicator will turn off.
LED CHARGE INDICATOR
Alternator/Solar LED | Battery Type LED | Charging Stage |
---|---|---|
Short flash GREEN | Solid GREEN | Bulk or Absorption |
Long flash GREEN | Solid GREEN | Float |
UNIT OPERATION
When an iTECHDCDC charger is connected, all LED indicators will light up, indicating normal operation. The charger initializes and may take up to 2 minutes to start charging.
The charger enters standby mode if input voltages are below the turn-off voltage. This is indicated by the charge input and battery type indicator LEDs blinking momentarily. The charger will wake and begin charging when charging voltages rise above the cut-in voltage, which may take up to 2 minutes.
The iTECHDCDC charger will start charging from solar input if the panel supply voltage is above 16V and outputting at least 25W (1.5 Amps).
iTECHDCDC25/40 Operation
Input | Turn On | Turn Off |
---|---|---|
12V standard alternator | >13.2V | <12.8V |
24V standard alternator | >26.2V | <25.6V |
12V smart alternator | >12V | <11.8V |
24V smart alternator | >24V | <23.6V |
FAULT RESOLUTION
Alternator LED | Solar LED | Battery Type LED | Fault LED | Explanation | Resolution |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quick flash | - | Quick flash | - | Low voltage detected at alternator input | Check alternator input voltage |
- | Quick flash | Quick flash | - | Low voltage detected at solar input | Check solar input voltage |
Quick flash | Quick flash | Quick flash | Quick flash | Low voltage detected at alternator or solar input | Check both alternator input voltage and solar input voltage |
Quick flash | - | - | Quick flash | High voltage detected at solar input | Check solar input voltage |
- | - | Quick flash | Quick flash | High voltage detected at output | Check auxiliary battery voltage |
- | - | - | Quick flash | Over temperature | Let the unit cool down, relocate charger to somewhere with better ventilation |
INSTALLATION
INSTALL LOCATION
iTECHDCDC chargers are designed for various locations, including under-bonnet installation. If installing in the vehicle cabin, ensure adequate ventilation and avoid enclosed spaces. The charger case temperature can be 20-30°C above ambient, and may exceed 60°C, which is normal.
Install the charger as close as possible to the auxiliary battery for efficient charging. Mounting can be done with 4 screws (not included).
SELECTION OF CABLE SIZE
Diagram showing the dimensions of the iTECHDCDC25 charger (118mm height x 70mm width) and the iTECHDCDC40 charger (118mm height x 80mm width).
For 12V input/output, use ring terminals. Thicker wire sizes improve performance. Prioritize thicker and shorter wire lengths to minimize resistance and voltage drop.
Input | Length | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0-3M | 0-3M | 3-6M | 3-6M | 6-9M | 6-9M | |
DCDC25 | DCDC40 | DCDC25 | DCDC40 | DCDC25 | DCDC40 | |
Solar Positive, Alternator Positive, Output Positive, Ground | 6mm² (10AWG) | 10mm² (8AWG) | 10mm² (8AWG) | 16mm² (6AWG) | 16mm² (6AWG) | 25mm² (4AWG) |
Ignition | 0.5mm² (20AWG) | 0.5mm² (20AWG) | 0.5mm² (20AWG) |
iTechworld advises installation by a trained/qualified individual. Improper connections can lead to short circuits, fire, and property damage.
WIRING
Diagram illustrating a soldered butt splice connector with heat shrink tubing for wire extensions, ensuring minimal resistance.
Before making connections, disconnect the main cranking battery. Note any radio anti-theft codes.
- Alternator Input (Red Anderson): Connects to the main cranking battery.
- Charger Output (Black Anderson): Connects to the battery being charged (the auxiliary battery).
- Solar Input (Grey Anderson): Connects to an unregulated solar panel.
- The ignition: For smart alternators, connect the blue wire to a switched ignition source (vehicle accessory wiring or fuse box). For standard alternators, it is advisable to keep the ignition wire disconnected.
TYPICAL SETUP
Wiring diagram illustrating the iTECHDCDC charger's connections. It shows the charger connected to a 12V Auxiliary Battery (2) and a 12V or 24V Main Cranking Battery (1). The Solar Panel (3) connects via a grey Anderson connector. The ignition wire connection is detailed for vehicles with smart alternators (4) to a switched ignition source, and notes to leave it unconnected for standard alternators.
FUSE SPECIFICATIONS
Image of a bolt-down fuse holder.
It is essential to install all recommended fuses in series. Bolt-down fuses are preferred for their low-resistance connection. Self-resetting circuit breakers are not recommended as they may trip prematurely due to heat.
Source | Model | DCDC25 | DCDC40 |
---|---|---|---|
Charger input | 40A | 60A | |
Charger output | 40A | 60A | |
Solar input | 40A | 60A | |
Ignition | 3A | 3A |
SPECIFICATIONS
General Rating
Model | iTECHDCDC25 | iTECHDCDC40 |
---|---|---|
Vehicle input voltage | 9V - 32V | 9V - 32V |
Solar input voltage | 10V - 32V | 10V - 32V |
Max input current | 25A | 45A |
Input fuse rating | 40A | 60A |
Continuous output current | Up to 25A | Up to 40A |
Output fuse rating | 40A | 60A |
Minimum aux battery charge start voltage | 4V | 4V |
Standby current | <10mA | <10mA |
Battery type | Standard lead acid, GEL, AGM, Calcium & LifePO4 | Standard lead acid, GEL, AGM, Calcium & LifePO4 |
Operating temperature | -20°C to 80°C | -20°C to 80°C |
IP rating | IP67 | IP67 |
Weight | 670g | 950g |
Dimensions | 150 x 127 x 39mm | 188 x 127 x 39mm |
Battery capacity | 50-500Ah | 80-800Ah |
Output Rating
Charge type | 3-Stage | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Charging profile | STD | GEL | AGM | Calcium | LIFEPO4 |
Absorbtion (maximum output voltage) | 14.4V | 14.1V | 14.7V | 15.3V | 14.5V |
Float voltage | 13.4V | 13.5V | 13.4V | 13.6V |
Input Rating
Input | Turn on | Turn off |
---|---|---|
12V standard alternator | >13.2V | <12.8V |
24V standard alternator | >26.2V | <25.6V |
12V smart alternator (ignition cable connected) | >12V | <11.8V |
24V smart alternator (ignition cable connected) | >24V | <23.6V |
Solar | 16V and 25W | 10V |
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For safe operation and optimal performance, iTECHDCDC battery chargers must be installed and operated correctly. Please carefully read, understand and follow all instructions and guidelines in this user guide. iTechworld recommends that a certified technician install your iTECHDCDC charger. Failure to follow these instructions may result in damage to the unit, property, death or serious injury.
Disclaimer: While iTechworld has taken every precaution to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this user guide, iTechworld assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions.
Furthermore, all specifications and functionality may change at any time without notice.
It is best to view the iTechworld website for the most up-to-date information.
WARNING: Please select the correct battery charging profile applicable to the auxiliary battery. Selecting the incorrect battery charging profile may cause damage to your auxiliary battery or result in fire. If unsure, consult your battery's manufacturer.
WARNING: Ensure the selected battery charging profile's charge voltage does not exceed the battery's recommended maximum charging voltage. If unsure, consult your battery's manufacturer.
WARNING: People with physical disabilities, visual, sensory, or mental impairments (including children) should not use this device. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the device.
WARNING: Please use the fuses and wires recommended in this user guide, otherwise it may result in damage to the inverter, a risk of electrical shock, fire, death or serious injury.
WARNING: Ensure the continuous output current of the charger does not exceed the battery's recommended maximum charging current. If unsure, consult your battery's manufacturer.
WARNING: When using the charger to charge a lithium battery, ensure it has an inbuilt battery management system (BMS) with under and over-voltage protection and cell balancing. Failure to do so may result in fire, death or serious injury.
WARNING: Do not drop your iTECHDCDC charger.
WARNING: Do not use your iTECHDCDC charger and its accessories to connect equipment if there is a defect.
DANGER: This device is only suitable for battery types listed in the user guide. Do not use it for other purposes.
DANGER: Do not disassemble or modify the charger; doing so may result in a risk of electrical shock, fire, death, or serious injury.
LIMITATIONS OF USE: Do not use in connection with life support systems or other medical equipment/devices.
CONTACT US
- Phone: 1300 483 249
- Email: service@itechworld.com.au
- Website: www.itechworld.com.au
iTechworld is a family-owned Australian business specializing in energy storage and creation. They offer a large range of products for campers, 4WD enthusiasts, and freedom seekers, aiming to provide power solutions for off-grid adventures.