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Smart Systems User’s Manual Version 1.1
94
8
Care and Maintenance
8.1
Battery Care
Smart Systems use 12-volt sealed lead acid batteries. They are fused with a 10 Amp
fuse to protect them from short circuit damage.
The Smart Cart battery unit uses contains a 15 Amp-hour battery. The battery unit
should run the Cart Noggin for 6-8 hours before recharging is necessary. If long days of
data surveying are typical, a second battery unit may be a useful item.
The Smart Handle belt battery has a 7 Amp-hour battery. This battery should run the
Smart Handle system for 2-3 hours before recharging is necessary. If long days of data
surveying are typical, more belt batteries may be a useful item.
If batteries are maintained in a charged condition they will give long life and reliable
service. Improper use and lack of maintenance will greatly reduce their life.
Sealed lead acid batteries should
NEVER
be left in a discharged condition for any period
of time. Charge the batteries as soon as possible after use.
Charge batteries at room temperature whenever possible.
The Noggin and DVL contain a voltage monitoring circuit that will turn off the unit when
the input voltage drops below 10.2 volts.
If a battery has been deeply discharged or left in a discharged condition for some period
of time it may not accept charge immediately when it is connected to the charger (The
fast charge LED will not light). If the fast charge light does not come on within 6 hours
the battery should be considered damaged and should be discarded.
Do not assume that a battery that is still charging after 8 hours is nearing the end of its
charge cycle. Typical charging time for an empty battery is 12-14 hours from start of fast
charge.
Ensure that the batteries are fully charged before storing. If practical, store the batteries
in a cool place, 10
o
c (a refrigerator is ideal), but make sure the temperature is not likely
to drop below -30
o
C or the electrolyte may freeze and possibly split the case.
8.2
DVL Internal Battery
If the Smart System has not been powered up for an extended period of time, the
internal battery will discharge. The dead battery causes the DVL time and date to reset
to January 1, 1988 at 12:00 PM. To correct the time and date see Section 5.5.1 or 6.5.1.
To recharge the internal battery the Smart System must be powered up and left running
for at least one hour and preferably longer.