Installation Guide

Configuration via SCP
4–16 975-0638-01-01 Rev A
Float Stage Float charge maintains a trickle charge on the batteries whenever AC is present
on the Conext SW input. Float charging reduces battery gassing, minimizes
watering requirements (for flooded batteries), and makes sure the batteries are in
a constant state of readiness. When three-stage charging is selected, the
charger automatically switches to the float stage after the batteries have received
a bulk and absorption charge. The batteries will be maintained at the default float
voltage level for the selected battery type or the voltage selected under Float
Voltage on the custom battery Settings menu.
Two-Stage Two-stage (bulk and absorption only, no float) mode differs from an ordinary
three-stage charge mode in that it does not continuously maintain the battery at
float voltage. Instead, the Conext SW begins charging the battery in bulk mode
whenever the battery voltage drops below the recharge level. While the battery
voltage is above the recharge level, the inverter continues to pass power through
from the AC source to the loads but does not actively charge the batteries.
Equalize-Charging the Batteries
Many battery manufacturers recommend periodic equalize charging to level out
the voltage between individual cells, improving battery performance and
lifespan.
Over time, the battery’s electrolyte can become stratified, causing inactive areas
in the plate material. If this condition is allowed to continue for extended periods,
the battery plates can sulfate and become unusable. Equalizing the batteries is a
controlled overcharging method that mixes up the electrolyte and reactivates the
unused areas of the plate material, restoring batteries to a full state of charge.
Consult the battery manufacturer’s recommendation for equalize charging
settings.
To start equalizing the batteries:
◆ On the device Setup menu, highlight Equalize and select Enabled.
NOTE: The battery voltage can increase above the float voltage when using an
external charging device such as PV arrays, wind turbines, or micro-hydro
generators. Be sure to include appropriate charge management equipment
with all external DC sources.
NOTE: Only flooded or vented batteries should be equalize-charged.
Hydrogen and oxygen gases are produced when batteries are equalize-
charged. See warning below.
WARNING
EXPLOSION HAZARD
Provide adequate ventilation and remove all sources of ignition to prevent
explosion.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in death or serious injury.
ConextSW-NA-OwnersGuide.book Page 16 Thursday, December 20, 2012 2:00 PM