Schumacher SC1301 Battery Charger Manual

The Schumacher SC1301 is a fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, and gel cell types. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float/maintenance), reverse hook-up protection, and spark-proof technology. Suitable for automotive, motorcycle, lawn tractor, marine, and deep-cycle batteries. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Charger unit, Battery clamps (red/black), AC power cord, LED status indicators, Microprocessor control board.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Charger contains electrical parts; risk of shock or fire if misused.

1. Use only with lead-acid batteries. Do not charge dry-cell or non-rechargeable batteries.
2. Work in well-ventilated area; keep away from sparks, flames, and smoking materials.
3. Wear eye protection and avoid leaning over battery during connection.
4. Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet before connecting/disconnecting clamps.
5. Connect red clamp to positive (+) battery terminal first, then black to negative (-) or grounded metal.
6. Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries. Check for cracks or leaks before charging.

WARNING! Battery gases are explosive. Keep charger away from battery during charging. Never bypass safety features.

Installation & Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Ensure work area is dry and stable.

1. Position charger: Place on stable, non-flammable surface near battery but away from engine compartment.
2. Prepare battery: Clean terminals if corroded. Remove battery caps (if applicable) to vent gases.
3. Connect clamps: With charger unplugged, attach red clamp to positive (+) terminal, black clamp to negative (-) terminal or vehicle chassis ground.
4. Plug into AC outlet: Insert power cord into 120V AC, 60Hz grounded outlet.
5. Charger will automatically detect battery voltage and begin charging sequence.

CAUTION! Do not connect clamps to each other or allow them to touch metal surfaces other than intended terminals.

Specifications

• Model: SC1301
• Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Output Voltage: 6V / 12V DC automatic selection
• Charging Current: 1.5A (maximum)
• Battery Compatibility: 6V and 12V lead-acid (Standard, AGM, Gel Cell)
• Charging Stages: 3-stage (Bulk, Absorption, Float)
• Protections: Reverse polarity, short-circuit, over-temperature, spark-proof
• Indicators: LED lights for Power, Charging, Maintenance, Fault
• Cord Length: AC cord: 3 feet; Clamp cords: 2.5 feet
• Dimensions: 6.5" L x 3.5" W x 2.2" H
• Weight: 1.2 lbs
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)

Controls and Indicators

Unit has no manual controls; operation is fully automatic. Status indicated by four LED lights:

LED Indicators:

• POWER (Green): Lit when charger is plugged into AC outlet and receiving power.
• CHARGING (Red): Lit during Bulk and Absorption charging stages.
• MAINTENANCE (Green): Lit when battery is fully charged and charger is in Float/Maintenance mode.
• FAULT (Red): Flashes if error is detected (reverse connection, bad battery, over-temperature).

Note: When CHARGING LED turns off and MAINTENANCE LED lights, battery is charged and being maintained. FAULT LED requires disconnection and correction of issue.

Charging Procedure

Follow these steps for safe and effective charging:

1. Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet.
2. Connect red clamp to positive (+) battery terminal.
3. Connect black clamp to negative (-) battery terminal or clean, unpainted metal on vehicle chassis.
4. Plug charger into 120V AC outlet. POWER LED will light.
5. Charger automatically detects battery voltage and begins charging. CHARGING LED will light.
6. Charger progresses through Bulk and Absorption stages. Time depends on battery size and discharge level.
7. When battery reaches full charge, CHARGING LED turns off and MAINTENANCE LED lights, indicating Float mode.
8. To disconnect: Unplug charger from AC outlet first, then remove black clamp, then red clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries, charging may take 12-24 hours. Leave connected until MAINTENANCE LED lights.

Maintenance Mode

After full charge, charger switches to Maintenance (Float) mode, providing a trickle charge to keep battery at optimal voltage without overcharging. Can be left connected indefinitely for battery maintenance during storage.

Usage: Ideal for seasonal vehicles (boats, motorcycles, RVs), lawn equipment, or any battery in storage. Connect charger and leave plugged in; MAINTENANCE LED will remain lit.

WARNING! Periodically check battery and charger for abnormal heat or damage during long-term maintenance.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect clamps before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth; do not immerse in water or use liquids.

Store in cool, dry place. Keep clamps from touching each other to prevent short circuit. Coil cords loosely.

CAUTION! Do not expose to rain, snow, or excessive moisture. Inspect cords and clamps regularly for damage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. UL Listed; meets safety standards. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. For support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug charger, disconnect clamps, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect following proper procedure.

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