Redarc SPRP1180 Instruction Manual

The Redarc SPRP1180 is a high-performance, dual-input, 12V to 12V DC-DC battery charger designed for demanding 4WD, marine, and caravan applications. It features advanced charging algorithms, temperature compensation, and robust protection circuits to safely charge and maintain auxiliary batteries. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Connecting Power Sources 7. Charging Modes & Operation 8. Maintenance & Care 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual input capability (Solar & Alternator), Multi-stage charging, Temperature sensor, LED status indicators, Heavy-duty terminals.

Feature	Description
Dual Input	Simultaneous or priority-based charging from solar and vehicle alternator
Multi-stage Charging	Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalization modes for battery health
Temperature Compensation	Built-in sensor adjusts charge voltage based on ambient temperature
LED Status Indicators	Visual feedback for input source, charge stage, and fault conditions
Heavy-Duty Terminals	Robust connections for high-current applications
Protection Circuits	Over-voltage, reverse polarity, short circuit, and over-temperature protection
Input Priority Switching	Automatically selects the best available input source
Wide Input Voltage Range	Accepts 9V to 32V DC input
Battery Compatibility	Supports Lead-Acid (Wet, AGM, Gel) and Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries
Compact & Rugged Design	IP67 rated for dust and water resistance

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure mounting location is clean, dry, and well-ventilated.

Mount the unit: Use provided screws to secure in a suitable location, avoiding heat sources.
Connect the battery: Attach positive (+) and negative (-) cables to the auxiliary battery terminals.
Connect input sources: Wire the alternator input and solar panel input as per diagram.
Connect temperature sensor: Attach to battery terminal if required.
Secure all connections: Ensure terminals are tight and cables are routed safely.

WARNING! Disconnect all power sources before installation. Ensure correct polarity to avoid damage. Use appropriate cable gauges for current rating.

First-Time Setup

After installation, power on the system and verify operation.

Initial power-up: Connect the main battery. The status LED should illuminate.
Select battery type: Use the DIP switches (if applicable) to match your auxiliary battery chemistry.
Verify input sources: Ensure alternator and solar inputs are detected (LED indication).
Check charging: Monitor LED sequence to confirm the charger has entered Bulk charge mode.

CAUTION! Do not connect batteries in reverse polarity. Ensure all settings match your battery specifications to prevent overcharging.

Specifications

Model: SPRP1180
Input Voltage: 9V to 32V DC
Output Voltage: Adjustable, up to 14.7V for Lead-Acid, 14.2V for Lithium
Charge Current: Up to 40A (combined input)
Efficiency: >90% typical
Battery Types: Lead-Acid (Wet, AGM, Gel), Lithium (LiFePO4)
Charging Stages: Bulk, Absorption, Float, Equalization (for Lead-Acid)
Protections: Over-voltage, Reverse Polarity, Short Circuit, Over-temperature
Enclosure Rating: IP67 (Dust and Water Resistant)
Operating Temperature: -30°C to +60°C
Dimensions: 150mm x 100mm x 50mm (approx.)

Controls and Indicators

Status is communicated via a multi-color LED indicator.

LED Indicator Codes:

Solid Green: Float Mode (Battery fully charged, maintenance charging)
Flashing Green: Absorption Mode (Constant voltage stage)
Solid Red: Bulk Mode (Maximum current charging)
Flashing Red: Fault Condition (e.g., over-temperature, battery fault)
Alternating Green/Red: Equalization Mode (Lead-Acid batteries only)
LED Off: No power or sleep mode (no demand)

DIP Switches (if present): Used to select battery type and configure charging parameters. Refer to label on unit for settings.

Connecting Power Sources

Connect alternator, solar panel, and battery following the provided wiring diagram.

Alternator Input: Connect to the vehicle's ignition-switched or dedicated alternator circuit.
Solar Input: Connect positive and negative from the solar regulator or panel.
Auxiliary Battery: Connect directly to the battery terminals. Fuse the positive cable close to the battery.
Temperature Sensor: Plug into port and attach probe to battery terminal.

Tip: Use a multimeter to verify voltages at each input before finalizing connections. Ensure all grounds are secure.

Charging Modes & Operation

The charger automatically manages the charging process based on battery state and inputs.

Bulk Mode: Delivers maximum current until battery voltage reaches absorption level (LED Solid Red).
Absorption Mode: Holds voltage constant while current tapers (LED Flashing Green).
Float Mode: Reduces voltage to a maintenance level once battery is full (LED Solid Green).
Equalization Mode: Periodic controlled overcharge for Lead-Acid batteries to prevent stratification (LED Alternating Green/Red).
Input Priority: Unit will draw from solar first if available, then alternator.
Sleep Mode: If no charging is required and no loads are detected, the unit enters a low-power state.

WARNING! Do not disconnect the battery during charging. Equalization mode produces gas - ensure area is ventilated.

Maintenance & Care

Periodically inspect the unit and connections.

Check all terminal connections for tightness and corrosion every 6 months.
Clean exterior with a dry cloth; do not use chemicals or water spray.
Ensure ventilation paths are not blocked.
Verify LED indicator operation during a typical charge cycle.

CAUTION! Disconnect all power sources before performing any maintenance. Do not open the sealed enclosure.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with relevant EMC standards for automotive and marine environments. Redarc Electronics Pty Ltd holds copyright and design rights. For technical support, warranty, or service, contact Redarc Electronics: +61 8 8322 4848 or visit www.redarc.com.au.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
LED not illuminating	No input power, blown fuse	Check input voltage and connections. Inspect and replace fuses if necessary.
Flashing Red LED	Over-temperature, battery fault, input voltage out of range	Allow unit to cool. Check battery voltage and health. Verify input voltage is between 9V-32V.
Not charging / Low charge current	Poor connections, battery already full, insufficient input	Check and clean all terminals. Measure input voltage/current from alternator/solar.
Battery not holding charge	Battery end of life, incorrect charger settings	Test battery separately. Verify DIP switches are set correctly for battery type.
Unit gets very hot	High ambient temperature, high load, insufficient ventilation	Ensure installation location is within specified temperature range and is well-ventilated.

Reset: Disconnect all inputs and battery for 60 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: +61 8 8322 4848; www.redarc.com.au