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Max Charge MC-612
Installation And
Operation Manual

I.

Introduction

The microprocessor-controlled Max Charge MC-612 is the most advanced regulator available. The MC-612 lets
you choose from a variety of selectable preset programs to best suit your charging needs. Its Universal Factory
Program allows you to connect the MC-612 to your alternator right out of the box. Six additional preset pro-
grams support most popular battery types, including standard and deep-cycle flooded batteries, AGM, gel, and
Optima (spiral wound) technologies, as well as special settings for systems supplying halogen lighting. An easy-
to-use magnetic reed switch delivers quick, precise regulator adjustment. Should your charging system require
individualized adjustment, the MC-612 provides additional advanced user-defined programming options. 

When used with optional alternator and battery temperature sensors, the MC-612 automatically monitors ambi-
ent alternator and battery temperatures and compensates by adjusting field output to match conditions. Alarm
outputs connect to audible or visual alarms to provide warnings of dangerous system conditions.

II. Safety Considerations

Before installing your MC-612 marine regulator, please take a moment to consider these guidelines for safe reg-
ulator installation. Failure to work safely could result in injury or damage to your electrical system.

1.

Always disconnect your battery banks and ensure that switches are “OFF” prior to installing your regulator.

2.

Remove loose-fitting clothing or jewelry, which could become entangled in your motor or other machinery.

3.

Wear ANSI-approved safety glasses. 

4.

DO NOT attempt to modify the regulator. Alterations could result in damage to your charging system, and will void

your warranty.

5.

Do not attempt installation if tired or fatigued.

6.

Ensure the engine has cooled before initiating installation.

7.

Do not attempt installation while using alcohol or medication that could impair your judgment or reaction time.

8.

Always use the right tool for the job. Improper tool use may damage regulator or your boat, and could result in per-

sonal injury.

9.

Take time to read the manual. Equipment damage and possible injuries may result from an incomplete understand-

ing of the installation and operation of the MC-612 regulator. If you are unfamiliar with marine electrical systems,
consult with a licensed marine electrician.

I.

Introduction ........................................................1

II.

Safety Considerations ........................................1

III. Installation Guide............................................2-5
IV. Optional Wiring Connections ........................5-6
V.

Regulator Operation ..........................................7

VI. Regulator Display Modes ..................................8

VII. Programming Modes ....................................9-11
VIII. System Troubleshooting............................12-13
IIX. Suggested Wiring Configurations..............14-15
Express Installation Instructions ..........................16
Warranty....................................................................16 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Summary of Contents for Max Charge MC-612

Page 1: ...for safe reg ulator installation Failure to work safely could result in injury or damage to your electrical system 1 Always disconnect your battery banks and ensure that switches are OFF prior to inst...

Page 2: ...mined based on the following factors distance from alternator distance from inverters transmitters and other sources of RF noise convenient access and readability of the display The regulator wiring h...

Page 3: ...to an electric tachometer via the regulator See informa tion above 11 Data RX Not currently used Provides input connec tion for planned remote display 12 Data TX Not currently used Provides output con...

Page 4: ...ound terminal connection point G Install Ignition Wire The BROWN Ignition Wire 6 in diagram at right provides the ON OFF voltage for the regulator This wire is included in the Ford style plug at the r...

Page 5: ...ith the ignition on and or with the engine running the regulator s LED should scroll through the basic regulator display If the engine is running the charging voltage will begin to climb to 14 1 volts...

Page 6: ...ing voltage if it senses that ambient battery temperature is warmer or colder than 75 F The Battery 1 Temp circuit 15 is recommended for use with the house battery bank To install the MC TS A 1 Connec...

Page 7: ...charge time by an additional six minutes and com pares real time to target values This will re occur until all values are met 5 Ramp to Absorption 6 Absorption Charge Regulator continues to control th...

Page 8: ...the B1 code on the display slp Voltage Compensation Slope Indicates in milliamps the resistance value the regulator uses to control compensated charging voltage based on battery temperature Al1 Indica...

Page 9: ...reset programming that best suits your bat tery type When the program number matching your battery type is indicated on the display release the switch by lifting the screwdriver off of the epoxy pot t...

Page 10: ...1 Identify the programming code that you want to access 2 When the desired code is indicated activate and hold the magnetic reed switch with the magnetic programming tool The display will indicate th...

Page 11: ...ns calculated bulk charge time Lower ing fba increases calculated bulk charge time Adjusted in 2 increments Span of adjustment is 16 to 96 To reverse direction of scroll release magnet and wait for LE...

Page 12: ...meter to 12VDC and connect the negative lead to the BLACK ground wire at the regulator as shown at right 1 With the ignition OFF check voltage on the red sensing blue field and brown ignition wires in...

Page 13: ...late your investigation to the alternator CAUTION Ensure that all voltage sensitive equipment is turned off prior to starting the engine Voltage is unregulated during this test and could damage sensit...

Page 14: ...14 IIX Suggested Wiring Configurations The following provide some suggsted direction in regard to charging system configuration...

Page 15: ...15...

Page 16: ...1 1 2 to 2 of the plug 3 Positive output cables from both alternators can be run direct to the house battery or from each alternator to a power post with a common run to the house battery bank Using...

Page 17: ...product is free from any defects in material or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase If any such defect is discovered within the warranty period BALMAR will replace the regul...

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