Furuno RC-1500-1T manual Battery charging, Care of the lead-acid battery

Battery charging

Before operating the radio, check the battery voltage on the meter provided on the AC/DC Radio Switch Box. The battery voltage is maintained between 24 VDC and 27.5 VDC when the BATTERY CHARGER switch is in the AUTO position. Note that the OFF position of the BATTERY CHARGER switch may allow the voltage to drop below 24 VDC. In this case, charge the battery as follows:

1.Set the BATTERY CHARGER switch for MANUAL. Watch the charging current at the AC/ DC Radio Switch Box. (For a 200AH battery, the charging current will be around 20A at the

start, and will be reduced gradually as charging proceeds.) For maintenance free battery, set the BATTERY CHARGER switch for AUTO.

2.Turn the BATTERY CHARGER switch off or set it to AUTO when the charging current falls below 2A.

Note: If the AC power has failed, the radio battery automatically supplies power to the radio equipment regardless of BATTERY CHARGER switch position. The battery will not discharge as long as the AC power is alive.

Care of the lead-acid battery

The lead-acid battery powers distress-related communications equipment when the ship’s main power and emergency power fail, to enable communications in the event of distress. Therefore, follow the points mentioned below to keep the battery in good working order.

WARNING

Keep sparks and lit smoking materials away from the lead-acid battery. Make sure the battery room is well ventilated.

The battery emits hydrogen gas which can cause explosion.

The electrolyte in the lead-acid battery contains sulfuric acid which can be harm- ful, particularly to the eyes.

If sulfuric acid contacts eyes, skin or clothing, flush directly with water. For eyes, contact a physician. Loss of eyesight can result.

The temperature of the electrolyte in the lead-acid battery should not exceed 45° C.

The electrolyte can cause explosion if it becomes too hot.

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