6 | Product Function
1 PRODUCT FUNCTION
The BCDC1212T is specifically designed for, but not limited to, applications where the input
current required to charge a trailer mounted auxiliary battery is drawn through the vehicle’s towing
harnesses and connectors. It limits the input current drawn to 12 A which provides for safe and
reliable operation when using towing harnesses, fuses and connectors that are suitably rated
without the need to install additional cables and connectors between the start battery / alternator
and the BCDC1212T / auxiliary battery.
The BCDC1212T is a three-stage, 12 V DC-DC Battery Charger that operates from an alternator
input of 12 V or 24 V. The input voltage to the BCDC1212T can be above, below or equal to the
output voltage making it ideal for charging an auxiliary 12 V battery where the distance from the start
battery or alternator may cause a significant voltage drop. When connected to a 12 V alternator
the BCDC1212T will typically provide peak boost currents of 11 A, and 20 A when connected to a
24 V alternator (the peak boost current however also depends on alternator voltage and input cable
voltage drop).
The BCDC1212T isolates the start battery from the auxiliary battery, to avoid over-discharging the
start battery.
1.1 DISPLAY PANEL
The front panel features 7 LEDs that display the Charge Profile and Charge Status.
BCDC1212T Front Panel
1.2 CHARGE PROFILE LEDS
The In-vehicle Battery Charger features 4 different charging profiles designed to suit your battery’s
charging requirements. It is recommended to refer to the charging specifications stated by the
battery manufacturer and the installation temperature chart (see Table 1 (page 7)) before
selecting the profile for your installation.
The selected Charge Profile LED will be on solid when the unit is ON and charging. A flashing profile
LED indicates that the unit is in standby mode and NOT charging.
CAUTION: Check the manufacturer’s data for your battery and ensure that the Maximum voltage of
the Charging Profile you select does not exceed the manufacturer’s recommended maximum charging
voltage. If the Maximum voltage is too high for your battery type, select another Charging Profile.