Following on from it’s predecessor, the massively popular BCDC1225 model, the next generation REDARC BCDC1225D is able to charge a wide range of battery types, including Lithium. It can now do so simultaneously from both solar inputs and the alternator’s DC.
This model is the most popular of the DC to DC range. It produces an output current of 25 Amps.
REDARC BCDC1225D MAIN FEATURES
- Isolates your main battery to prevent drainage
- Improves the health and prolongs the life of your auxiliary batteries
- Simultaneous charging from solar and alternator inputs
- Preference given to solar reduces load on alternator
- Wide input voltage range makes it suitable for both 12V and 24V systems with varying alternator types
- Smart voltage boost reduces voltage drop over long cabling lengths to caravans or campers
- Multi-stage charging profile ensures batteries are kept 100% charged at all times
- Ensures power is available for all of your ancillary appliance and lighting needs
- Fast charging 25A output gives you more power, faster
- Float charging prevents battery self discharge over time
- Compact in size – able to be mounted under the bonnet or in the cabin
- Suitable for use with both lead acid, lithium (LiFePO4), AGM, GEL and calcium batteries
- Fully sealed so is also suitable for marine applications
- Designed for Australia’s harsh conditions
- 2 Year Warranty
SIMULTANEOUS DUAL CHARGING
Whilst it’s predecessor allowed for dual power inputs from both solar and alternator, the REDARC BCDC1225D allows for simultaneous charging from both. It’s “green power” preferential means that it will utilise the energy from the sun before placing any additional drain on your alternator to make up the difference.
It comes standard with an MPPT (Maxium Power Point Tracking) solar regulator for connection to your solar panel array.
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POWER WHEN YOU NEED IT
THE BCDC1225D helps to ensure your auxiliary battery stays charged 100% of the time, so that you always have the power that you need, when you need it. Using a multi-stage charging profile to ensure a complete charge, the BCDC ensures a deep and complete charge of your vehicle’s battery. This ensures not only a full charge but also helps to improve the health of your battery whilst also prolonging it’s life span.
The charger has three different charging stages including Boost, Absorption and Float.
During the boost stage the charger maintains a constant current until the battery voltage reaches its absorption value. It is smart enough to be able to vary the current slightly if operating temperatures could lead to damage, or to limit the difference between input and output voltages.
The charger will move to absorption mode which maintains the voltage for a predetermined time or until the battery’s current draw drops to less than 4 amps for 30 seconds.
After this stage, it will move into Float mode. This is where the charger keeps the battery topped up. It counteracts loads applied to the battery from your appliances, as well as the natural tendency for your battery to self discharge slowly over time.
GIVING YOU A BOOST
A lot of modern vehicles these days use smart alternators which do not generate sufficient surplus voltage to also charge an auxiliary battery in a dual battery system. The REDARC BCDC1225D steps in to boost the alternators voltage, ensuring sufficient power to be able to charge your second battery to 100%.
The added benefit of this control is that it also helps to reduce “voltage drop” than can occur over long cabling distances, such as to a camper or trailer. This ensures your second battery gets sufficient power it needs to charge properly, no matter where it is placed.
The input voltage can be above, below or equal to the output voltage. The BCDC1225D also isolates the main battery from the auxiliary, preventing over-discharging the main battery.
VERSATILE DC TO DC CHARGING
The REDARC BCDC1225D has a wide input voltage of 9-32 V DC. This means that it is highly versatile and can be used in either 12 or 24 Volt systems.
This model also has 4 different charging profiles, making it suitable now for charging lithium (LiFePO4) batteries, as well as AGM, GEL, Lead Acid and calcium batteries. No matter what type of battery you have, the BCDC1225D will adjust to suit your needs.
When setting the charging profile, always refer to the battery manufacturers specifications before selecting the profile for your installation. See the manual below for more details.
REDARC BCDC1225D INSTALLATION A BREEZE
When it comes to installation, the beauty of the BCDC1225D is it’s compact size and ability to withstand harsh environments. Water, vibrations and dust are not a problem with this charger. It can operate in a wide temperature range, from -10°C to 80°C, making it suitable for either mounting in the engine bay out of site, or hidden in the cabin.
*Note that it is not recommended to mount lithium batteries in the engine bay due to the heat.
If mounting inside the engine bay, for optimum performance mount it away from main heat sources. Choose locations like behind the headlights or grille, or the inner guard. Where possible mount the charger as close to the auxiliary battery as you can.
REDARC have also produced a series of BCDC Mounting Brackets tailored for all different vehicle makes and models. We also produce our own dual battery system trays with included REDARC BCDC1225D for Discovery 4 and Discovery 5 vehicles.
See the manual below for full installation and charging profile setup instructions.
DETAILS
ALWAYS ON THE CUTTING EDGE.
REDARC’s range of BCDC DC to DC battery chargers are known to be some of the best on the market. The BCDC1225D represents the next generation of their popular battery charging range. A lot of R&D goes into making the REDARC range a premium quality offering that is able to function intelligently and with ease.
AUSTRALIAN MADE & DESIGNED
REDARC is proudly Australian made. Their massive facility is located in South Australia.
ICONIC PERFORMANCE
This range receives rave reviews and high ratings for their intelligent design, durability and resistance to the harsh conditions often experienced in 4WD adventuring.
FOR BEST RESULTS
As shown in the above wiring diagrams, for the best installation REDARC recommend MIDI style bolt down fuses to ensure a low resistance connection. Blade type fuses are not recommended as they can result in high resistance and excessive heat production in the fuse holder or wiring. For best results, use the REDARC FK40 or FK60 fuse kits.
Circuit breakers are not recommended as they may trip prematurely due to the heat generated by the current flowing through the wires.
MANUAL
Specifications
| INPUT VOLTAGE | 9 – 32V DC |
| OUTPUT VOLTAGE | 13V DC |
| MAX CHARGING VOLTAGE | 15.3V |
| OUTPUT CURRENT RATING (CONT.) | 25A |
| INPUT FUSE RATING | 40A |
| OUTPUT FUSE RATING | 40A |
| TYPE APPROVAL | E-Mark |
| WARRANTY | 2 Years |
| STANDBY CURRENT DRAW | <100mA |
| OUTPUT POWER | 375W |
| WIDTH (MM) | 120 |
| HEIGHT (MM) | 37 |
| LENGTH (MM) | 165 |
| WEIGHT (KG) | 1 |
What’s in the box
- 1 x REDARC BCDC1225D Battery Charger
- 1 x Instruction manual with diring diagrams
- 5 x Cable joiner lugs
- 5 x Heat sinks
FAQs
How does the BCDC Dual Input charge an auxiliary battery at 14V when it only gets 9V in?
The BCDC Dual Input can act as both a reducer and a booster, so it can operate from a voltage above, equal to or below the desired output voltage. The unit is also microprocessor controlled allowing it to output a REDARC proprietary charging algorithm independent of the input. This allows the unit to charge specific to the battery type even if the input voltage is low due to voltage drop.
Where should I mount the BCDC Dual Input Unit?
The BCDC Dual Input should be mounted as close as possible to the battery being charged (auxiliary battery). If the auxiliary battery is located under the bonnet, pick a location that is close to the battery and away from any direct engine heat. An ideal spot is behind the headlights.
If the BCDC1225D is mounted into a caravan or camper, near or in the battery compartment is usually the best position, as seen here (BCDC on right hand side):
What does the charger do if the temperature around it rises above its operating temperature?
As the temperature of the BCDC1225D rises above a certain level, the current capacity of the output is decreased gradually in order to protect both the battery and the BCDC unit.
If I use the BCDC Dual Input to charge my auxiliary battery do I still need to install a battery isolator?
The BCDC incorporates the functionality of a battery isolator. It will turn ON and start charging when it senses that the vehicle has started and similarly turn OFF when the vehicle is turned OFF.
Can I use the BCDC1225D with two different types of batteries?
The BCDC1225D does not ‘link’ the batteries together like an isolator does. The output from the unit is tailored specifically to the selected output battery type, and therefore allows the optimal charging of the auxiliary battery, no matter the chemistry of the starter or primary battery.
My BCDC is setup for 12V alternator input but will not start when the vehicle is turned on. What’s the problem?
The most likely cause of this issue is that the BCDC charger is somehow “stuck” in 24V mode. Try removing the ‘Vehicle’ (RED) wire and reconnecting it. If the problem still exists please contact REDARC.
Can the BCDC1225D charge from solar and vehicle power at the same time?
Yes. The BCDC1225D will always attempt to provide the power from the solar source first, when available. It will supplement this input with power from the vehicle source second. Both charging can occur at the same time.
Can the BCDC1225D operate with only a single power source input?
Yes. The BCDC1225D will operate as a stand-alone solar regulator when only solar (Yellow wire) is connected or it will operate as a DC charger when only the vehicle (Red wire) is connected.
What does BCDC stand for?
Battery Charger Direct Current
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