Schumacher SC1320 Battery Charger Manual

The Schumacher SC1320 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 maintenance, reverse hook-up protection, and spark-proof technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Installation & 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: Charger unit, Battery clamps (red/black), AC power cord, LED status indicators.

Feature	Description
Microprocessor Control	Automatically selects optimal charge rate
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V or 12V battery automatically
Float-Mode Maintenance	Maintains battery at full charge without overcharging
Reverse Hook-up Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Ensures safe connection to battery terminals
LED Status Indicators	Shows charging, maintenance, and fault conditions
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for easy storage
Multi-Battery Support	Compatible with Standard, AGM, and Gel Cell batteries

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow may result in injury or damage.

Use only with 12V lead-acid batteries. Do not use with non-rechargeable batteries.
Ensure area is well-ventilated. Batteries generate explosive gases.
Wear protective eyewear and gloves when working with batteries.
Do not expose charger to rain, snow, or liquids.
Disconnect AC power before connecting or disconnecting battery clamps.

WARNING! Risk of explosion or electric shock. Follow all safety precautions.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place charger on stable, dry surface.

Connect to battery: Ensure battery is in vehicle or on stable surface. Connect RED clamp to positive (+) terminal, BLACK clamp to negative (-) terminal.
Connect to power: Plug AC power cord into grounded 120V outlet.
Automatic start: Charger will automatically detect battery voltage and begin charging.
Monitor LEDs: Refer to indicator lights for charging status.

CAUTION! Never connect clamps directly to each other. Ensure proper polarity.

Specifications

Model: SC1320
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: 12V DC (Automatic 6V detection for compatible models)
Charge Rate: 1.5A (Trickle), 3A (Standard)
Battery Types: Standard (Wet), AGM, Gel Cell
Protections: Reverse Polarity, Short Circuit, Overheat
Dimensions: 7.5" x 3.5" x 2.5"
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)

Controls and Indicators

Front Panel: LED indicator lights (POWER, CHARGING, MAINTAINING, FAULT).

LED Status Guide:

POWER (Green): AC power connected and unit is on.
CHARGING (Red): Battery is actively charging.
MAINTAINING (Green): Battery is fully charged and in float/maintenance mode.
FAULT (Red Flashing): Error detected (reverse connection, bad battery, etc.).

No manual controls; operation is fully automatic once connected.

Charging Procedure

For optimal performance, follow these steps:

Ensure battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion.
Connect charger clamps to battery terminals (RED to +, BLACK to -).
Plug charger into AC outlet. POWER LED will illuminate.
CHARGING LED will light red. Charger will automatically progress through bulk, absorption, and float stages.
When MAINTAINING LED lights green, battery is fully charged and being maintained.
To disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries, charging may take several hours to complete.

Maintenance Mode

After full charge, charger switches to float/maintenance mode.

Maintains battery at optimal voltage without overcharging.
Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, or long-term storage.
Can be left connected indefinitely for battery preservation.

Note: Periodically check battery and charger condition during extended maintenance.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth only; do not use liquids.

Store in cool, dry place. Keep clamps from touching each other or metal surfaces.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture during storage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. UL Listed. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No LED lights	No AC power	Check outlet; ensure charger is plugged in securely.
FAULT LED flashing	Reverse connection / Bad battery	Disconnect and reconnect clamps correctly. Test battery voltage.
CHARGING LED stays on indefinitely	Very low battery / High resistance	Allow more time. Check battery connections and condition.
Charger gets warm	Normal operation	Some heat is normal during charging. Ensure ventilation.
Battery not holding charge	Battery may be defective	Test battery with voltmeter. Replace if voltage below 10V.

Reset: Unplug AC power, disconnect clamps, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect.

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