20A 12V DC to 12V DC Automatic Multi-Stage Battery-to-Battery Charger with Solar Input for Lead Acid, Calcium or Lithium-ion Batteries
20A 12V DC to 12V DC Automatic Multi-Stage Battery-to-Battery Charger with Solar Input for Lead Acid, Calcium or Lithium-ion Batteries
SKU:DCDC-20A
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20A 12V DC to DC Automatic Multi-Stage Battery Charger
With Solar Input | For Lead Acid, Calcium & Lithium-ion Batteries | Model: DCDC-20A
The Photonic Universe 20A 12V DC to DC Automatic Battery Charger with Solar Input (Model: DCDC-20A) is a versatile power management solution designed for mobile and off-grid applications. This intelligent unit efficiently charges your secondary 12V battery from your vehicle's starter battery or directly from solar panels. It is engineered to maintain optimal battery health and extend off-grid runtime for caravans, campervans, motorhomes, and boats.
Combining two essential charging functions into one compact device, this charger simplifies installation and operation. It intelligently manages power flow, ensuring your auxiliary battery is consistently charged and ready to power essential devices. The multi-stage charging program is compatible with a wide range of 12V battery types, including Lead Acid, AGM/Gel, Calcium, and Lithium-ion, selected with a simple button press.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This charger is designed for 12V battery systems only. It is not suitable for 24V batteries or mixed 12V/24V battery configurations.
Key Features
| ▶ Dual Charging Capability — Charges leisure battery from vehicle's starter battery or directly from solar panels. |
| ▶ Integrated Solar Input — Features a solar charge controller, compatible with panels up to 20A at 16-25V. |
| ▶ Smart Multi-Stage Charging — Fully-automatic, high-frequency program for safe and quick battery charging. |
| ▶ Wide Battery Compatibility — Supports Lead Acid, AGM/Gel, Calcium, and Lithium-ion battery types. |
| ▶ Advanced Safety Protections — Built-in safeguards against overload, overheating, overvoltage, and short circuits. |
| ▶ Continuous Charging Under Load — Maintains full power output even while loads are drawing energy. |
| ▶ Ignition Control Feature — Connects to vehicle ignition for automatic charging when the engine is on. |
| ▶ Deep Discharge Recovery — Capable of recovering severely discharged batteries (as low as 2.0V output). |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Input Voltage | 12.5 - 16.0V |
| Max Charging Current | 20A |
| Solar Input Voltage | 16.0 - 25.0V |
| Max Solar Input Current | 20A |
| Min Output Battery Voltage | 2.0V |
| Float Charge Voltage | 13.5V |
| Float Charge Current | 100mA (0-20A range also mentioned in some sources, using 100mA from input) |
| Battery Capacity Range | 18 - 250Ah |
| Dimensions (excl. cable) | 21 x 13 x 4 cm (Input provided, other sources vary slightly) |
| Weight | 900g (Input provided, other sources vary slightly) |
Charging & Battery Modes
This Photonic Universe DC-DC charger offers a multi-stage charging program tailored for various 12V battery chemistries, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
| Battery Type | Bulk Charge Voltage |
|---|---|
| AGM/Gel | 14.3V (Input provided, other sources vary slightly) |
| Lead Acid | 14.0V (Input provided, other sources vary slightly) |
| Calcium | 15.0V (Input provided, other sources vary slightly) |
| Lithium-ion | 14.0V (Input provided, other sources vary slightly) |
The charger automatically remembers your selected battery type, even after power disconnection, eliminating the need for reprogramming.
Typical Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Caravans & Campervans | Ensures leisure batteries are charged while driving and topped up via solar when parked. |
| Motorhomes | Provides reliable power for onboard appliances, extending off-grid capabilities. |
| Boats & Marine Vessels | Maintains service batteries for navigation, lighting, and essential marine electronics. |
| Off-Grid Systems | Ideal for remote cabins or temporary setups requiring dual-source battery charging. |
Built-In Protection Functions
The Photonic Universe DCDC-20A charger incorporates comprehensive safety features for reliable, unattended operation. These include protection against overload • overheating • overvoltage • over-discharge • short circuits • and reverse discharge. Clear LED indicators provide at-a-glance monitoring of charging stage, power source, and selected battery type.
Common Questions
What types of batteries is this charger compatible with?
This charger is compatible with 12V Lead Acid, AGM/Gel, Calcium, and Lithium-ion batteries. It is not designed for 24V battery systems.
Can it charge from both the vehicle alternator and solar panels simultaneously?
The charger intelligently switches between the vehicle's starter battery and solar input, or uses both as needed, prioritising the most effective charging source. The solar input automatically activates when engine charging is not active.
Is special wiring required for the ignition control feature?
The charger includes an optional ignition control feature that can be connected to your vehicle's ignition. This allows the battery-to-battery charging to start automatically when the engine turns on and stop when it's off. A user manual with clear wiring instructions is included.
What is the recommended battery capacity range for this 20A charger?
This 20A charger is suitable for 12V battery capacities ranging from 18Ah to 250Ah.
Installation Notes
- Refer to the included user manual for detailed wiring and operation instructions.
- Ensure all connections are secure and correctly polarised to prevent damage.
- When using the optional ACC ignition control, monitor your source battery to prevent excessive discharge if the engine is off.
- Install in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials.
- Consider professional installation for complex setups to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Before You Buy
- Verify your battery system is 12V. This charger is not compatible with 24V systems.
- Confirm your battery type (Lead Acid, AGM/Gel, Calcium, or Lithium-ion) is supported.
- Check the maximum solar panel voltage (25V) and current (20A) compatibility.
- Ensure the charger's 20A output is suitable for your leisure battery capacity (18-250Ah).
- Measure available installation space, noting the dimensions: 21 x 13 x 4 cm.
Always verify product specifications and compatibility with your existing system before purchase. For technical support or further guidance, please contact Solarika.co.uk. This product is covered by a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
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