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Regulator Operation
The MC-624 regulator’s microprocessor controlled charging system uses a sophisticated, multi-stage profile to deliver
maximum charging output, while protecting the batteries from overcharging damage. When the regulator is first turned
on, the processor performs a quick one-second self diagnostic assessment. Following that diagnostic, the MC-624
initiates a charge program as follows:
1. Start Delay
- Factory set at one second. Can be user-adjusted to a maximum of 999 seconds in the regulator’s
advanced programming mode. See Advanced Programming section for adjustment instructions.
2. Soft Ramp
- Gently increases voltage to bulk preset levels based on battery program selected.
3. Bulk Charge
- The most aggressive of the charging stages. Voltage is held at a pre-set level, specified by
battery program selected, for a set time period. Factory-set bulk time is 18 minutes. Adjustable in 6-minute
increments.
4. Calculated Bulk Charge
- Holds voltage at bulk level for six minutes, then calculates battery condition by
comparing existing voltage, time at voltage, and field percentage to target values. If values are met, the
regulator advances to the next stage. If values are not met, the regulator continues to bulk charge and
compares real-time to target values. This will re-occur until all values are met.
5. Ramps down
to Absorption voltage.
6. Absorption Charge
- Regulator continues to control the alternator’s output voltage for an additional 18 minutes
at approximately 2/10’s of a volt below bulk charging voltage. Adjustable in 6-minute increments.
7. Calculated Absorption Charge
- Holds voltage at absorption level for six minutes, then calculates battery
condition bycomparing existing voltage, time at voltage, and field percentage to target values. If values are met,
the regulator advances to the next stage. If values are not met, the regulator extends the absorption charge and
compares real-time to target values. This will re-occur until all values are met.
8. Ramp down
to Float.
9. Float Charge
- Regulator continues to control the alternator’s output voltage for an additional 18 minutes,
typically at a volt less than bulk voltage (based on battery program presets). After that initial fixed time period,
the regulator can respond to increased charging demand by cycling to absorption voltage. After 12 hours of
continuous operation, the regulator will automatically revert to absorption voltage through calculated absorption
and back to float charging stage.
1 sec. 60 sec.
18 min.
Up to 6 hrs. 18 min.
Up to 6 hrs.
18 min.
Up to 6 hrs.
18 min.
Up to 6 hrs.
18 min.
Up to 6 hrs.
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