Schumacher SC 600A Speed Charger Manual

The Schumacher SC 600A is a high-performance, fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, gel-cell, and deep-cycle types. It features a 6-amp fast charge rate, microprocessor-controlled charging, automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float), reverse hook-up protection, and a digital display showing charge status, voltage, and battery percentage. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Charging Procedure 7. Maintenance Mode 8. Care & Storage 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, Digital LED display, Charging clamps (red/black), AC power cord, Mode selection buttons.

Feature	Description
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V or 12V battery automatically
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, Absorption, Float stages for optimal charging
Digital Display	Shows battery voltage, charge status, and percentage
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
Battery Recondition Mode	Helps recover deeply discharged batteries
Fully Automatic Operation	Charges and maintains without manual intervention
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for garage or workshop use
Compatible Battery Types	Standard, AGM, Gel, Deep-Cycle (flooded)
Charge Rate	6 Amps for fast charging

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Use in well-ventilated area.

Wear eye protection and avoid flames/sparks near battery.
Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet before connecting clamps.
Connect red clamp to positive (+) terminal first, then black to negative (-) or chassis ground.
Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries.
Keep charger dry and away from liquids.

WARNING! Risk of explosion or fire. Follow polarity instructions carefully. Do not disassemble charger.

First-Time Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Verify included parts.

Select location: Dry, stable surface near battery, away from engine and moving parts.
Prepare battery: Clean terminals if corroded. Ensure vent caps are tight (if applicable).
Connect clamps: RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-) or unpainted metal on chassis.
Plug into AC outlet: Use grounded 120V, 60Hz outlet only.
Charger will auto-detect voltage and begin charging sequence.

CAUTION! Never connect clamps to each other. Ensure good metal-to-metal contact.

Specifications

Model: SC 600A Speed Charger
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: 6V / 12V DC automatic
Charge Rate: 6 Amps (max)
Battery Types: Lead-Acid (Wet, AGM, Gel, Deep-Cycle)
Display: Digital LED (Voltage, %, Status icons)
Protections: Reverse polarity, short-circuit, overcharge
Dimensions: 7.5" L x 3.5" W x 2.5" H (approx.)
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)

Controls and Indicators

Front Panel: Digital Display, MODE Button, Battery Type Indicator LEDs.

Display Icons: Battery % (0-100%), Voltage (V), Charging Status (Flashing/ Solid).

Modes: Press MODE button to cycle between CHARGE (standard), MAINTAIN (float), and RECONDITION (recovery). Battery Type LEDs: AGM/GEL (green), STANDARD (yellow). Status Lights: POWER (green), CHARGING (red), COMPLETE (green).

Charging Procedure

For 6V or 12V batteries up to 120 Ah.

Verify battery voltage (should be above 3V for detection).
Connect clamps in correct order (RED first, BLACK last).
Plug into AC outlet. Display will light up and show battery voltage.
Charger auto-selects voltage and begins Bulk charging (display shows rising %).
Progress to Absorption (constant voltage), then Float (maintenance).
When FULL (100%) is displayed, charging is complete.
Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries (< 3V), use RECONDITION mode first.

Maintenance Mode

Float maintenance keeps battery at optimal charge during storage.

Connect charger as normal.
Press MODE until MAINTAIN LED lights.
Charger will cycle on/off to keep battery between 95-100%.
Can be left connected indefinitely for seasonal vehicles.

Note: Not for use as a power supply. Disconnect if not used for extended periods.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect clamps before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth; store in dry location.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water. Keep clamps from touching each other during storage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corp. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Display blank/no power	AC outlet dead / cord not plugged	Check outlet; ensure plug is fully inserted; try different outlet.
Charger not detecting battery	Low voltage (<3V) / poor connection	Use RECONDITION mode; clean terminals; ensure clamps have solid contact.
Reverse polarity light on	Clamps reversed	Unplug AC, disconnect clamps, reconnect correctly (RED to +).
Charging stops early	Battery faulty / overheated	Check battery for damage; allow to cool; test with voltmeter.
Display shows error code "E1"	Over-temperature / internal fault	Unplug, let cool 30 minutes; restart. If persists, contact support.

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 5 minutes to reset microprocessor.

Service: 1-800-621-5485; www.schumacherelectric.com