Schumacher SSC 1500A Owners Manual

The Schumacher SSC 1500A is a fully automatic microprocessor-controlled battery charger and maintainer designed for 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, and gel cell types. It features automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float), reverse hook-up protection, and a digital display showing voltage, amperage, and charge status. 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 Display 6. Charging Procedures 7. Maintenance Mode 8. Error Codes & Diagnostics 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Fully Automatic Operation	Automatically selects correct charging voltage and amperage
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, Absorption, and Float modes for optimal battery health
Battery Type Detection	Auto-detects Standard, AGM, and Gel Cell batteries
Digital Display	Shows voltage, charge rate (amps), and charge status
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
Maintainer Mode	Float mode maintains battery at full charge indefinitely
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for garage or workshop use
Thermal Protection	Prevents overheating during extended charging sessions
Diagnostic Mode	Tests battery condition before charging

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Keep charger dry and away from flammable materials.

Work in well-ventilated area: Batteries produce explosive gases during charging.
Wear eye protection: Protect eyes from battery acid and sparks.
Disconnect AC power: Before connecting or disconnecting clamps to battery.
Connect to battery first: Then plug into AC outlet.
Keep children and pets away: From charging area.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Do not smoke or use open flames near battery. Connect red clamp to positive (+) terminal first.

First-Time Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Verify included components.

Select location: Dry, stable surface near battery but away from engine.
Prepare battery: Clean terminals if corroded. Ensure vent caps are secure.
Connect clamps: RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-) terminal or vehicle chassis.
Plug into outlet: Use standard 120V AC, 60Hz grounded outlet.
Monitor display: Charger will automatically begin diagnostic check.

CAUTION! Do not connect to frozen battery. Ensure battery voltage matches charger (12V).

Specifications

Model: SSC 1500A
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: 12V DC
Charge Rate: 1.5 Amps (standard), adjustable maintenance rate
Battery Compatibility: 12V Lead-Acid (Standard, AGM, Gel Cell)
Charging Stages: 3-stage (Bulk, Absorption, Float)
Display: Backlit LCD (voltage, amps, mode, error codes)
Protections: Reverse polarity, short circuit, over-temperature
Dimensions: 7.5" L x 3.2" W x 2.1" H
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)

Controls and Display

Front Panel: MODE button, LCD display. Display shows: Battery voltage, Charge current (amps), Charge status (%), Mode indicator.

MODE Button: Press to cycle between CHARGE (full charge), MAINTAIN (float maintenance), and DIAGNOSTIC (battery test).

Display Icons: Battery symbol (flashing during charge), Plug icon (AC connected), Error code (if fault detected). Charging Process: Display shows progress from 0% to 100%. When complete, switches to "FULL" or maintenance voltage.

Charging Procedures

For 12V automotive, marine, motorcycle, lawn tractor batteries.

Verify battery type: Standard, AGM, or Gel Cell (charger auto-detects).
Connect clamps: RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-) or chassis ground.
Plug into AC outlet: Charger will beep once and begin diagnostic check.
Select mode: Default is CHARGE. Press MODE button to change if needed.
Monitor charging: Display shows increasing percentage and decreasing amps.
Completion: Charger beeps twice and displays "FULL". Switches to float maintenance automatically.
Disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries (<2V), charger may take several minutes to recognize and begin charging.

Maintenance Mode

Float maintenance keeps battery at optimal voltage during storage.

Connect charger as normal.
Press MODE button until "MAINTAIN" appears on display.
Charger will maintain battery at 13.2V to 13.8V indefinitely.
Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, RVs, or infrequently used batteries.
Can be left connected for months without overcharging.

Note: Maintenance mode draws minimal power (approx. 0.1A).

Error Codes & Diagnostics

Diagnostic Mode: Press and hold MODE button for 3 seconds to test battery condition.

Display	Meaning	Action
E1	Reverse polarity detected	Check clamp connections (red to +, black to -)
E2	Battery voltage too low (<2V)	Battery may be damaged or sulfated
E3	Battery voltage too high (>16V)	Disconnect and check battery condition
E4	Over-temperature	Allow charger to cool; improve ventilation
FUL	Battery fully charged	Normal completion; disconnect or maintain
---	No battery detected	Check connections; clean terminals

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth only.

Store in dry location: Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.
Coil cords neatly: Prevent kinks and damage to wires.
Clean clamps periodically: Remove corrosion with wire brush.
Inspect regularly: Check for cracked housing or damaged cables.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water or use solvents. Keep ventilation slots clear.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Charger won't turn on	No AC power / Bad outlet	Check outlet with another device; ensure plug is fully inserted
Display shows "E1"	Reverse polarity connection	Disconnect and reconnect clamps correctly (red to +)
Not charging / Low amps	Corroded terminals / Bad connection	Clean battery terminals; ensure clamps have good contact
Charger beeps continuously	Fault detected	Unplug, wait 30 seconds, reconnect; check error code
Battery won't hold charge	Old/damaged battery	Test battery with load tester; may need replacement
Display dim or blank	Low light conditions	Display has no backlight; move to brighter area

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 2 minutes to reset microprocessor.

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