40
Curtis 1212S Manual,
Rev. B
APPENDIX C
BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR (BDI) SETUP
The Battery Discharge Indicator used with the 1212S is quite flexible and,
once set up, will provide the user with reliable information on the status of
the battery system.
The BDI parameters (Program
»
BDI menu) must be set up specifically
for the type and size of the charger, the battery size, and the vehicle’s expected
drive cycle.
When setting up the BDI parameters, use the same vehicle and set of
batteries for the entire procedure. Do not drive the vehicle or charge the bat-
teries except when requested to do so in the procedure.
Follow the steps in the order they are presented.
Before beginning the procedure, set the following initial values:
Full Voltage = 24.4
Empty Voltage = 20.8
Full Charge Voltage = 28.2
Start Charge Voltage = 25.2
Reset Voltage = 25.0
Discharge Factor = 2.0
Charge Factor = 2.0
Low BDI Level = 0
Low BDI Max Speed = 50.
Step 1. Setting the Reset Voltage
1.a Plug in the charger, and fully charge the batteries. With the charger still
attached and running, measure the final battery voltage with a Digital
Volt Meter (DVM).
1.b Set the Full Charge Voltage 0.2 V lower than the measured value.
1.c Turn off or disconnect the charger and let the batteries sit for 1 hour.
Measure the battery voltage again.
1.d Set the Reset Voltage 0.2 V lower than the new measured value.
Step 2. Setting the Full Voltage
2.a Select a medium speed mode and drive the vehicle for 10–15 minutes.
2.b After this time and while driving straight on a level surface, record the
battery voltage displayed in the 1313’s Monitor menu.
2.c Set the Full Voltage parameter to this value.
Step 3. Setting the Empty Voltage
3.a Normally a value of 1.7 volts per cell is used as the empty point. This
corresponds to a setting of 20.4 V. For some sealed batteries, this may
be too low. Consult the battery manufacturer if you are unsure.
APPENDIX C: BDI SETUP
