Description
Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 Charge Relay | Boat Supply Store
This intelligent electronic charge relay eliminates the risk of power dips and protects your onboard electrical network by prioritizing the primary battery's charge. It features robust current limiting for the secondary battery and comprehensive reverse current protection, ensuring seamless operation for demanding dual battery systems. With automatic 12/24V detection and an IP65 rating, it offers reliable performance in harsh marine environments for all battery types, including Lithium Ion, making it ideal for vessels like offshore fishing boats utilizing bow thrusters.
Key Features
- Prioritized charging of the main battery
- Intelligent current limiting for the secondary battery
- Unidirectional blocking of return current
- High efficiency with low voltage drop (max 0.2 V)
- Robust IP65 electronics in a corrosion-resistant casing
- Automatic 12/24 V battery voltage detection
- Suitable for all battery types, including Lithium Ion
- LED status indication for system monitoring
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Amperage | 40 A |
| Battery System | Dual Battery |
| Current Limiting (Secondary) | Yes |
| Reverse Current Protection | Yes (Unidirectional blocking) |
| Voltage Detection | Automatic 12/24V |
| Voltage Drop | Max 0.2 V |
| IP Rating | IP65 |
| Battery Type Compatibility | All types (including Lithium Ion) |
| Casing | Corrosion-resistant with aluminum heat sinks |
| Status Indication | LED |
Who This Is For
Marine and mobile users with dual battery systems requiring efficient and prioritized charging. This includes individuals with high power demands or specific battery bank requirements, such as those operating bow thrusters.
How It Compares
| Feature | Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 Charge Relay | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Max Charge Current (Secondary Battery) | 40 A | 500 A, 40 A |
| Current Limiting for Secondary Battery | Yes | No, No |
| Reverse Current Protection | Yes (blocks under all circumstances) | Yes, Yes |
| Voltage Drop | Max 0.2 V | Low (typically <0.1V at rated load), Low |
| Battery Type Compatibility | All types (including Lithium Ion) | All types (requires appropriate charging source), All types |
| IP Rating | IP65 | IP67, IP65 |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 difficult to install?
Installation is rated as moderate (3/10) and requires basic electrical knowledge and understanding of battery systems. While the unit itself is straightforward, integrating it correctly into complex existing systems for prioritization and remote switching may present challenges for novices. Detailed wiring diagrams for complex installations are sometimes requested by users.
Why choose an electronic charge relay over a mechanical one?
The Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 offers superior intelligent electronic charge distribution with current limiting and reverse current protection, ensuring your primary battery is always prioritized and preventing power dips. Unlike basic mechanical relays, it provides a protected and optimized onboard electrical network.
Will the initial cost be justified for my simple setup?
While the initial cost might be higher than basic mechanical relays, the advanced features like current limiting and reverse current protection of the Charge Mate Pro 40 offer significant benefits for dual battery systems. If you have a simple single-battery setup, simpler solutions may suffice, but for dual systems requiring robust management, the investment provides enhanced reliability and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 prevent power dips?
The Charge Mate Pro 40 prevents power dips by intelligently prioritizing the charge of the primary (start) battery. Its electronic control ensures that essential systems powered by the primary battery receive consistent power, even when the secondary battery is also being charged or supplying power.
What is the primary benefit of using a Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 over a mechanical charge relay?
The primary benefit is its intelligent electronic control, offering features like current limiting for the secondary battery and comprehensive reverse current protection. This ensures efficient and safe charging prioritization, preventing damage to batteries and electrical components, unlike basic mechanical relays.
Can the Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 be used with Lithium Ion batteries?
Yes, the Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 is suitable for all battery types, including advanced Lithium Ion (LiFePO4) batteries. Its intelligent charging management system ensures compatibility and optimal performance with these modern battery chemistries.
What is the maximum charge current the secondary battery can receive with the Charge Mate Pro 40?
The Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 features current limiting for the secondary battery, with a maximum charge current of 40 Amps.
How does the Mastervolt Charge Mate Pro 40 prioritize charging the main battery?
The Charge Mate Pro 40 prioritizes the main battery by continuously monitoring the voltage of both batteries. When the charging source (e.g., alternator) is active and the primary battery reaches a sufficient charge level, the relay intelligently connects the secondary battery for charging, ensuring the primary battery always receives adequate charge first.
