Digital Duo Charge
Installation/Operation
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Introduction
The Digital Duo Charge provides a safe, intelligent alternative for the care of your vessel’s engine starting battery. Unlike
switches, isolators and other charge splitting devices, the Duo Charge is mounted between the vessel’s house and starting
batteries rather than between the alternator and batteries. This allows the alternator and regulator to concentrate output
based on the house battery’s needs. When the Duo Charge senses charging voltage at the house battery, it works like a DC-
to-DC battery charger, providing up to 30 amps of regulated charging current to support the starting battery.
In most installations, the Duo Charge requires just four wires for operation; a fused input wire, a fused output wire, a ground
wire and an ON/OFF wire. In applications where the Duo Charge is used to supply a battery bank that may require more
than 30 amps of regulated charging current, the Duo Charge may be used to
manually
control an external solenoid. Please
note the section in the manual relating to solenoid control.
The Duo Charge is designed specifically to enable its user to control charging voltage output -- making it possible to
safely mix house and starting battery technologies. The Duo Charge features four different programs based on four bat-
tery technologies: Standard Flooded, Deep Cycle Flooded, Gel and AGM battery types. In addition, the Duo Charge can be
programmed for 12-volt or 24-volt operation. When used with an optional Battery Temperature Sensor cable (MC-TS-B), the
Duo Charge has the ability to respond to a battery over-temperature condition by automatically discontinuing charging
output.
Safety Considerations
Before installing your Duo Charge, please take a moment to consider these guidelines for safe regulator 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 Duo Charge. 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 Duo Charge. If you are unfamiliar with DC electrical systems, consult with a
licensed marine electrician.
© Revised June, 2008
Contents
Introduction ............................................................................ 1
Safety Considerations ............................................................ 1
Unpacking The Box ................................................................ 2
Installation Basics ................................................................... 2
Wiring Basics/Ground Wire/Output Wire ........................... 2
Input Wire/ON-OFF Wire/Optional Connections .............. 3
Battery Temperature Sensor/Solenoid Drive .................... 4
Duo Charge Operation .........................................................5
Programming Duo Charge/System Voltage .....................6
Programming For Battery Type ...........................................6
Troubleshooting ....................................................................7
Duo Charge Wiring Diagram ...............................................7
Duo Charge Terminal Location Legend .............................8
Balmar Contact Information ................................................8
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