New Industry Products

Absopulse Releases New Rugged, 1500W, 400V Portable Battery Charger

October 28, 2009 by Jeff Shepard

Absopulse Electronics released BCH 1K5T-400 – a portable battery charger that uses high-frequency conversion technology to deliver up to 1500W continuous output power. This charger was designed to charge a 400V lithium-ion battery; other battery configurations are also available. It has an automatic two step charge mode: it runs at full 4A charging current until the pre-set voltage threshold of 380V is reached, then switches to a lower 1A maintenance current.

An analog voltmeter and an ammeter, located on the upper surface of the unit, indicate charge current and battery voltage status. Different thresholds for 4A/1A switchover point and open circuit voltage are available on request. A built-in output separation diode prevents battery discharge back into the charger if the ac is disconnected. The input accepts either 115 or 230Vac, factory set. Power factor correction is available on request.

The BCH 1K5T-400 is conformal coated, heavily ruggedized and it is housed in a water-proof Pelican case with a sturdy handle for portability and easy use in the field. The case measures 502 x 401 x 190 mm and the entire unit weighs approximately 12 kilograms.

Cooling is by built-in fans which allows for operation in the 0 to 50°C temperature range. Extended temperature ranges are available. Protection includes inrush current limiting, over-voltage protection, short circuit protection, a self-resetting thermostat for thermal protection. The output is protected against reverse battery connection by built-in crossbar diode and output breaker.

The BCH 1K5 T is priced in the US$1,350 range depending on configuration requirements.