Operating instructions V-Charge Field 400 multifunctional charger Item No.
Table of contents Page 1. Introduction...........................................................................................................................................................3 2. Explanation of symbols.........................................................................................................................................3 3. Intended use......................................................................................................................................
1. Introduction Dear customer, Thank you for purchasing this Voltcraft® product. Voltcraft® produces high-quality measuring, charging and network devices that offer outstanding performance and innovation. With Voltcraft®, you will be able to cope with even the most difficult tasks whether you are an ambitious hobby user or a professional user. Voltcraft® offers you reliable technology at an extraordinarily favourable cost-performance ratio.
3. Intended use The processor-controlled charger is intended for charging and discharging NiCd/NiMH (1 – 16 cells), LiPo/Li-ion/LiFe/ LiHV (1 – 6 cells) rechargeable batteries and lead-acid rechargeable batteries (1 – 12 cells, 2 V – 24 V). The charging current can be set between 0.1 A and 16.0 A. The maximum charging power is 400 W. Furthermore, rechargeable batteries can also be discharged; the discharge current can be 0.1 - 3.0 A directly at the charger. The maximum discharge power is 8 W.
4. Delivery content • Charger • Quick start guide • Software CD with detailed operating instructions Up-to-date operating instructions Download the latest operating instructions via the link www.conrad.com/downloads or scan the QR code. Follow the instructions on the website. 5. Safety instructions These instructions contain important information on how to use the multimeter correctly. Please read them carefully before using the multimeter for the first time.
• Safe operation can no longer be assumed if: -- There are signs of damage -- The device does not function properly -- The device was stored under unfavourable conditions for a long period of time -- The device was subjected to rough handling during transport. • Make sure that you always have these instructions at hand to ensure safe operation. Keep these operating instructions in a safe place and give them to any subsequent owners.
6. Notes on rechargeable batteries Despite the fact that both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries have become a normal, everyday item, there are still numerous dangers and problems associated with them. When using LiPo/Li-ion/LiFe rechargeable batteries with high energy content (compared to conventional NiCd or NiMH rechargeable batteries) in particular, different instructions must be followed in order to avoid explosion and fire hazards.
• Do not charge/discharge rechargeable batteries directly in the model. First, remove rechargeable batteries from the model. • Place the charger and rechargeable battery on a non-flammable, heat-resistant surface (e.g. stone tiles). Maintain enough distance from flammable objects. Allow enough space between the charger and the rechargeable battery. Do not place the rechargeable battery on the charger.
• The discharge current must not exceed the value printed on the rechargeable battery. For example, when a value of “20 C” is printed on the rechargeable battery, the discharge current is 20 times the rechargeable battery capacity (for example, battery capacity 1000 mAh, max. discharge current 20 C = 20 × 1000 mA = 20 A).
8. Setup When connecting batteries, always observe the polarity and the charging instructions from the relevant battery manufacturer. Always supply the charger with power before connecting the rechargeable battery. This also applies to the balancer connection. After use, disconnect the charger from the power source and unplug the rechargeable battery. Setting up power supply Power is supplied via the side XT60 connector (8) on the left.
A Rechargeable battery type B Number of cells C Charging programme D Battery charge level in % E Low battery charge level icon F Charging/discharge current G Charging/discharge time H Display marker I Display of cell voltages J Capacity (charging/discharge) K Rechargeable battery voltage Turn the knob down to display other parameters. The display marker (H) will show the current display field.
“System Setup” system settings In the system menu, set general settings that the charger requires for operation. To enter the system menu, press and hold down the knob for approx. 2 seconds. The system menu will be displayed with a beep. The “System Setup” menu contains the following settings: Menu item Meaning Value Language System language English MAX Input Power Set the maximum power of the voltage source to avoid overload. The formula is: P = U x I.
Programme settings In the programme menu, you can pre-set all parameters for rechargeable battery care. To enter the programme menu, briefly press (for less than 1 second) the knob. The programme menu will be displayed with a beep (unless the beep has been disabled in the system menu). The “Programme” menu contains the following settings. The values without brackets are pre-set, and the valuesin brackets describe the possible adjustment range.
Important! Make sure that the set parameters match the rechargeable battery before connecting it. The rechargeable battery and the charger may be damaged if the charger is not properly configured. Overcharging may cause an explosion or fire. Take extreme care when configuring. If there are no specific rechargeable battery parameters, please note the data in the table below. Rated voltage/ cell Charging end voltage/cell Storage voltage/ cell Max. charge rate Discharge voltage/cell LiPo 3.70 V 4.
c) “PC Link” interface This interface allows the charger to be controlled and read by a Windows® compatible computer. The free “Charge Master” software provides all setup functions that can also be set on the device. In addition, you can create and save your own charging/discharge programmes. The free software allows operation of the charger using a computer. All parameters are displayed on the computer in real time.
11. Troubleshooting The charger is very user-friendly thanks to the menu navigation and plain text displays. However, problems may occur, which are detailed below, together with possible remedies. Make sure that all charger settings you have made exactly match the connected rechargeable battery! Check the connection between the power supply and the charger for problems (cuts or other cable damages). Furthermore, you should check that the charging cable connectors are intact and not undersized.
12. Disposal Electronic devices are recyclable waste and must not be placed in household waste. At the end of its service life, dispose of the product according to the relevant statutory regulations. Disposal of Flat Accumulators You are required by law to return all used batteries. They must not be placed in household waste. Contaminated batteries/rechargeable batteries are labelled with symbols to indicate that disposal in domestic waste is forbidden.
This is a publication by Conrad Electronic SE, Klaus-Conrad-Str. 1, D-92240 Hirschau (www.conrad.com). All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction by any method, e.g. photocopy, microfilming, or the capture in electronic data processing systems require the prior written approval by the editor. Reprinting, also in part, is prohibited. This publication represent the technical status at the time of printing. Copyright 2019 by Conrad Electronic SE.
