How to choose a rectifier?
The choice of a suitable device is not obvious. There are different types of batteries on the market and different types of chargers are available. Before you start shopping, please answer a few support questions.
Do you know what kind of battery you have? What is the capacity of your car battery? Are you going to charge, for example, two batteries at the same time? Do you want to be able to charge different types of batteries with one charger?
The simplest division of rectifiers is due to their design.
Standard rectifiers
These are the simplest and cheapest devices (from about PLN 50), the design of which is based on a transformer without any additional electronic solutions. In the case of batteries in passenger cars, this solution is sufficient. Moreover, they are often enriched with automation and short circuit protection, etc.
Microprocessor rectifiers
In this case, we are dealing with more advanced devices. The charging process is controlled by a microprocessor, so it is safe for the battery. Microprocessor rectifiers, unlike standard ones, have the following properties:
- the ability to charge the battery without disconnecting it from the car's on-board network,
- stabilization of the charging voltage of the battery (stabilization of the charging voltage also makes the charging current independent of fluctuations in the mains voltage of 230 V)
- automatic stop charging when the battery is fully charged
- automatic regulation of the charging current depending on the measured voltage of the battery being charged
- automatic protection that protects the charger from damage due to a short circuit of the crocodile clips or incorrect connection to the battery
- implementation of buffer operation - there is no need to disconnect the charger from the battery immediately after charging is completed (the charger connected to the battery constantly measures the voltage at its terminals and automatically turns off, and after detecting a voltage drop starts the charging process again)
- Possibility of desulphurizing the battery by simultaneously discharging the battery with the load connected to it, for example, when charging the battery directly in the vehicle connected to its electrical installation
Some manufacturers offer devices that contain two rectifiers in one housing, which allows you to charge two batteries at the same time. This is a good solution for those who have more than one car.
Traction
These are devices adapted to charge powerful batteries of various types of electrical appliances: forklifts, electric vehicles, floor cleaning devices with large surfaces, etc.
Rectifier types:
Rectifiers are also divided according to the type of batteries for which they are intended:
- for lead acid
- for gel
Microprocessor rectifiers can be used for both types of batteries.
Important Settings
Below are the most important parameters of the chargers, according to which you should adapt the device to the battery or batteries you have:
- peak charging current
- effective charging current
- output voltage
- supply voltage
- type of battery that can be charged
- the weight
- measurements
Prizes
On the domestic market, there are many devices manufactured in Poland and abroad. However, before spending PLN 50 on the cheapest straightener found on the supermarket shelf, consider whether it is worth it. It may be better to pay a little more and buy equipment that will last you for many years. Here are a few selected rectifier manufacturers:
You have to pay around PLN 50 for the cheapest and easiest straighteners. Cheap doesn't mean bad. However, before buying, check the workmanship and the manufacturer's warranty period. Such rectifiers usually do not have any protection against overloads caused by charging a completely discharged battery, short circuits, or alligator clips being reversed.
If the PLN 100 limit is exceeded, you can buy a device with the aforementioned security features.
If you want to buy a good microprocessor rectifier, you should be prepared to spend a minimum of PLN 250. For PLN 300 you can buy a very good device equipped with most of the above mentioned additional features. The most expensive chargers can cost even more than a thousand zlotys.
Summation
When choosing a charger for your own car battery, you should first of all pay attention to its adaptation to the parameters of your battery, the manufacturer's warranty period, workmanship, market opinion about the company's products, and its reputation. Before buying, you should check the manufacturer's website, online forums and ask sellers. And of course, check out our latest tips.
Subject consultation: Semi Elektronik
The author of the article is the site: jakkupowac.pl
