Schumacher SC1306 Owners Manual

The Schumacher SC1306 is a fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, and gel cell types. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, automatic voltage detection, float-mode monitoring, reverse hook-up protection, and spark-proof technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, LED status indicators, Battery clamps, AC power cord, DC output cables.

Feature	Description
Microprocessor Control	Automatically selects optimal charge rate
LED Status Indicators	Shows charging, maintenance, and fault conditions
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V/12V batteries automatically
Float-Mode Monitoring	Maintains battery at full charge without overcharging
Reverse Hook-up Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
Battery Reconditioning	Helps recover deeply discharged batteries
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for various applications
Multi-Battery Support	Charges standard, AGM, and gel cell batteries
Thermal Protection	Prevents overheating during extended use

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure work area is clean, dry, and well-ventilated.

1. Place charger on stable, non-flammable surface away from battery.
2. Verify battery type is compatible (12V lead-acid).
3. Ensure battery is in well-ventilated area before connecting.
4. Keep charger dry and away from liquids.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Work in well-ventilated area. Wear eye protection. Keep sparks and flames away from battery.

First-Time Setup

Prepare battery and charger for initial use.

1. Clean battery terminals before connection.
2. If battery is in vehicle, disconnect vehicle's ground cable first.
3. Connect charger to AC power outlet (120V, 60Hz).
4. LED power indicator will illuminate green.
5. Connect charger clamps to battery (red to positive, black to negative).
6. Charger will automatically detect battery voltage and begin charging.

CAUTION! Do not connect to frozen battery. Ensure battery electrolyte level is adequate before charging.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Output Voltage: 12V DC automatic.
• Charge Rate: 1.5A normal charge, 500mA maintenance.
• Battery Compatibility: 12V lead-acid (standard, AGM, gel cell).
• Charging Modes: Bulk, absorption, float maintenance.
• Protection Features: Reverse polarity, short circuit, overcharge, thermal.
• LED Indicators: Power (green), Charging (red), Maintenance (green), Fault (red).
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
• Dimensions: 7.5" x 3.5" x 2.5".
• Weight: 2.2 lbs.

Controls and Settings

Fully automatic operation with LED status indicators.

LED Indicators:

• POWER (Green): AC power connected
• CHARGING (Red): Battery is charging
• MAINTENANCE (Green): Battery is fully charged and in float mode
• FAULT (Red): Error condition detected

Automatic Functions:

• Voltage detection (6V/12V)
• Charge rate selection
• Mode switching (bulk → absorption → float)
• Fault detection and protection

Connecting to Battery

Proper connection sequence is critical for safety.

1. Turn off all vehicle accessories and ignition.
2. Connect red clamp to positive (+) battery terminal.
3. Connect black clamp to negative (-) battery terminal or clean metal ground.
4. Plug charger into AC outlet.
5. Charger will automatically begin charging sequence.

Disconnection Sequence:

1. Unplug charger from AC outlet.
2. Remove black clamp from negative terminal.
3. Remove red clamp from positive terminal.

Tip: For best results, charge battery at room temperature (70°F/21°C).

Charging Process

Three-stage automatic charging cycle.

1. Bulk Stage: Delivers maximum current until battery reaches 80% charge.
2. Absorption Stage: Voltage constant, current decreases for remaining 20%.
3. Float Stage: Maintains battery at full charge with minimal current.

Charging Times (approximate):

• 50% discharged battery: 8-10 hours
• 75% discharged battery: 12-14 hours
• Deeply discharged: May require 24+ hours

WARNING! Do not leave charger connected indefinitely. Monitor charging progress regularly.

Maintenance Mode

Float mode maintains battery for extended periods.

• Automatically switches to float mode when battery is fully charged.
• Provides trickle charge to compensate for self-discharge.
• Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, RVs, and equipment.
• Can be left connected for up to 30 days continuously.

Storage Preparation:

1. Fully charge battery before storage.
2. Connect charger in well-ventilated area.
3. Check battery monthly during extended storage.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug charger before cleaning. Use dry cloth only; do not use liquids or solvents.

1. Keep charger clean and dry at all times.
2. Inspect cables regularly for damage.
3. Clean battery clamps with baking soda solution if corroded.
4. Store in cool, dry place when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not immerse charger in water or other liquids. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Regulatory Information

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

Warranty: 1-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Register product online for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No LED indicators	No AC power	Check outlet; ensure charger is plugged in securely.
FAULT LED illuminated	Reverse connection/bad battery	Check clamp connections; test battery condition.
Charger not charging	Battery deeply discharged	Leave connected for 24 hours; battery may be sulfated.
CHARGING LED stays on	Battery not taking charge	Check battery voltage; may need replacement.
Charger gets hot	Normal during charging	Ensure ventilation; if excessively hot, disconnect immediately.
Spark when connecting	Normal small spark possible	Connect negative clamp to ground away from battery.

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

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