Schumacher MANUAL DO USURIO SI-82-6 - Manual (Page 44)

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Battery Type Switch
Use this switch to set the type of battery to be charged.
SLI • – These initials stand for Starting, Lighting and Ignition, which
are the three basic functions which a battery has to perform on all normal
vehicles. This battery type is usually used in cars, trucks and motorcycles.
These batteries have vent caps and are often marked “Low Maintenance”
or “Maintenance-free”. This type of battery is designed to deliver quick
bursts of energy (such as starting engines) and have a greater plate count.
The plates will also be thinner and have somewhat different material
composition. Most Maintenance Free Batteries are SLI, otherwise known
as Flooded, Regular or Standard Batteries. Regular batteries should not be
used for deep cycle applications.
Deep-Cycle
• – Deep-cycle batteries are usually marked as “Deep-
Cycle” or “Marine”. Deep-cycle batteries are usually larger than the other
types. This type of battery has less instant energy but somewhat greater
long-term energy delivery than regular batteries. Deep cycle batteries have
thicker plates and can survive a number of discharge cycles.
AGM
• – The Absorbed Glass Mat construction allows the electrolyte to
be suspended in close proximity with the plate’s active material. In theory,
this enhances both the discharge and recharge efficiency. Actually, the AGM
batteries are a variant of Sealed VRLA (valve regulated lead acid) batteries.
Popular uses include high performance engine starting, power sports, deep
cycle, solar and storage battery. AGM batteries are typically good deep
cycle batteries, and they deliver best life performance if recharged before
the battery drops below a 50 percent charge. If these AGM batteries are
completely discharged, the cycle life will be around 300 cycles. This is true
of most AGM batteries rated as deep cycle batteries.
GEL
• – The Gel Cell is similar to the AGM style because the
electrolyte is suspended, but different because technically the AGM battery
is still considered to be a wet cell. The electrolyte in a GEL cell has a
silica additive that causes it to set up or stiffen. The recharge voltages
on this type of cell are lower than the other styles of lead acid battery.
This is probably the most sensitive cell in terms of adverse reactions to
over-voltage charging. Gel Batteries are best used in VERY DEEP cycle
application and may last a bit longer in hot weather applications. If the
incorrect battery charger is used on a Gel Cell battery, poor performance
and premature failure is certain.
When antimony is known to be one of the materials used in the battery’s
construction, that battery is conventional/low maintenance type.
Some low maintenance batteries have a relatively smooth
top without any apparent battery filler caps. If, however, the battery
manufacturer/distributor recommends periodic checking of the electrolyte level
and provides access to the battery for water additions, the battery is probably
a conventional/low maintenance type.
Charge Rate Selector Switch (Voltage/Amp Selector)
Use this switch to set the maximum charge rate to one of the following.
2A Slow Charge Rate • – Intended for charging small batteries such as those
commonly used in garden tractors, snow mobiles and motorcycles. The 2A
rate can be used to warm or trickle charge larger batteries.
6A Medium, and 10A, 12A Fast Charge Rate
• – Use for charging automotive,
marine and deep-cycle batteries. Not intended for industrial applications.
75A Engine Start (model SI-1275A only)
• – Provides 75 amps for cranking
an engine with a weak or run down battery. Always use in combination with a
battery.