USER GUIDE
©
Escort Data Logging Systems LTD DATED: 03/07/07 PAGE 10
Powering & Charging the ChartReader
The ChartReader contains an internal NiCad battery which typically, when fully charged, can
provide power for about 1 hour of continuous printing.
To charge the NiCad battery, plug a 12V @ 1A supply into the DC connector located at the
rear of the case. The plug needs to be a 2.1mm DC plug with negative on the inner
connection.
(An adapter of lesser current rating (i.e. say 0.7 amp) can be used but this will increase the
time it takes to fully charge the battery.) A 12V car cigarette lighter adapter can also be used.
When connected to a suitable power supply, the ChartReader will indicate that the battery is
being charged by flashing the ON light.
The battery will normally take up to 2 hours to fully charge with 90% of the charge being
attained within the first hour. The charger can be left permanently plugged in without damage
to the ChartReader or battery.
Sometimes the battery will not take on a fast charge and the ON light will stop flashing well
before 1 hour is elapsed. In this case the ChartReader will continue to charge the battery in a
“trickle charge mode” and may take up to 18 hours to fully charge a battery.
Note: It is highly advised that the battery is fully exhausted before recharge to
maximise life and capacity of the battery.
Note that because the ChartReader uses an intelligent charge technique, it cannot be turned
off when external power is applied (i.e. a charger is connected). As soon as the external
power supply is plugged into an inactive ChartReader, it will automatically turn on to maintain
the charging of the battery.
Power Failure
The battery will typically exhaust itself during printing as this is the most energy consuming
activity. When the battery is becoming exhausted, the ON indicator will rapidly flash and a
beep will be sounded. If this occurs during printing (the most likely time) the printing will
pause until either the battery voltage rises or a charger is plugged in.
To continue using the ChartReader, plug in an external power source. As long as the printing
was not aborted it will automatically continue once a suitable external power supply is
attached.
Overview of Power Indicator Modes
Action Meaning
ON Indicator slowly flashing with charger
plugged in.
Charge in progress.
ON Indicator permanently on with charger
plugged in.
Fast Charge completed. Battery trickle charged.
ON Indicator flashing rapidly with beeping.
Battery nearly exhausted.
ON Indicator not on
ChartReader inactive (turned off).
!
The NiCad battery is not included in the warranty.