Page 1
ci0039
issue 9, 2015-09-04
Sentinel 300P series
Automatic switch mode battery chargers
Installation, Operation & Maintenance
This manual refers to the following models
All models are UL recognised or listed
Open frame
models
SNTL300P
SNTL300PC
Base open-frame (protective cover) model.
As above, plus CAN J1939 communication.
Enclosed
models
ESNTL300PM
ESNTL300PCL
ESNTL300PCLM
Enclosed model, analogue meters.
Enclosed model, CAN J1939 communications
and LCD display
Enclosed model, CAN J1939 communications,
LCD display and analogue meters.
For safe and correct use of these chargers, read and save the safety
information that precedes the installation and operation instructions.
This guide contains 12 pages (including this one). If any pages are
missing, contact the battery charger supplier or manufacturer for
replacement documentation.
Sentinel 300P (open-frame, with protective cover)
SNTL300P model shown
Enclosed Sentinel 300P
ESNTL300PCLM model shown
For sales & support, contact:
ENOVATION CONTROLS LTD.
Church Road, Laverstock,
Salisbury, SP1 1QZ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1722 410055
Fax: +44 1722 410088
E-mail: sales@enovationcontrols.eu
Web: www.computroniccontrols.com
www.fwmurphy.eu/computronic
ENOVATION CONTROLS
5311 S 122nd East Avenue,
Tulsa, OK 74146, USA
Phone: +1 918 317 4100
Fax: +1 918 317 4266
E-mail: sales@enovationcontrols.com
sales@fwmurphy.com
Web: www.fwmurphy.com
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p2/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
Important Safety Information – Read and Save These Instructions
This manual contains important safety and operating instructions for all SNTL300P and ESNTL300P models.
Do not expose the battery charger to rain, snow or wet environments.
The use of any attachment not recommended or sold by the battery charger manufacturer may result in risk of fire,
electric shock, injury to persons or damage to property.
Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way: return to
supplier.
Do not disassemble the charger: return to supplier when service or repair is required. Incorrect re-assembly may result
in a risk of electric shock, fire or faulty operation.
WARNING – RISK OF EXPLOSIVE GASES
WORKING IN THE VICINITY OF A HIGH POWER BATTERY IS DANGEROUS. BATTERIES MAY GENERATE
EXPLOSIVE GASES DURING NORMAL OPERATION AND CHARGING.
To reduce the risk of battery explosion, follow these instructions and those published by battery manufacturers and the
manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use in the vicinity of the battery. Review cautionary marking on these
products and any attached equipment.
PERSONAL PRECAUTIONS.
(i) Someone should be within range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid when you work near a lead acid
or high power battery.
(ii) Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, eyes or clothing.
(iii) Wear complete eye protection and clothing protection. Avoid touching eyes whilst working near batteries.
(iv) If battery acid or chemicals contact skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid or chemicals
enter the eyes, immediately flood eyes with running cold water for at least 10 minutes and get immediate medical
attention.
(v) NEVER smoke or allow a spark or flame in vicinity of battery.
(vi) Be extra cautious to reduce risk of dropping a metal tool on to the battery. It may spark or short-circuit the battery or
other electrical part that may cause explosion.
(vii) Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches when working with batteries.
High power batteries can produce a short-circuit current high enough to weld a ring or the like to metal, causing severe
burns.
(viii) Use the charger only for charging battery types as stated on the charger. Do not use the charger for charging dry-
cell batteries that are commonly used with home appliances. These batteries may burst and cause injury to persons and
damage to property.
(ix) NEVER CHARGE A FROZEN BATTERY
PRIOR TO INSTALLATION /COMMISSIONING
Clean battery terminals. Be careful to keep corrosion from coming into contact with eyes.
For lead acid batteries, add distilled water in each cell until the battery acid reaches a level specified by the battery
manufacturer. This helps purge excessive gas from the cell. Do not overfill. For a battery without cell caps, carefully
follow manufacturer’s recharging instructions.
Study all battery manufacturer’s specific precautions, such as removing or not removing cell caps while charging and
recommended rates of charge.
Determine the battery voltage by referring to the engine manual and ensure this matches the charger’s output voltage.
CHARGER LOCATION AND CONNECTION
Never place the charger directly above the battery being charged: battery gases will corrode and damage the charger.
When reading specific gravity or filling batteries, never allow battery acid or chemicals to drip on to the charger.
Do not operate the charger in a closed-in area or restrict ventilation in any way.
The battery charger should be connected to a grounded, metal, permanent wiring system; or an equipment–grounding
conductor should be run with circuit conductors not connected to equipment-grounding terminal on the battery charger.
Connections to the battery charger should comply with all local codes and ordinances.
Open frame SNTL models – these chargers should be installed so that they are not likely to be contacted by people.
Wiring for the AC supply input, DC charge output and DC control (e.g. alarm output) circuits must be physically
separate, e.g. using separate wire harnesses and cable gland access. For AC supply and ground connections, use
1mm²/17 AWG or larger wire conductors rated to 90°C/194°F. For DC (charger to battery) leads, use 4mm²/11 AWG or
larger wire.
For safe and correct use of the charger, follow steps below. Should you have any problems or the unit does not function as
expected, consult our troubleshooting guide at the end of these instructions.
Visually inspect unit for any signs of damage, caused by transport or storage.
Mount the charger as outlined above, paying attention to ventilation and ambient temperature.
Ensure the mains AC supply is isolated, and ensure the correct rated input voltage before connection.
Ensure the charger is earthed at the marked earth terminal/stud.
Check batteries in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Check that the charger is correct for battery type, number of cells and voltage.
Connect the charger to the batteries, observing correct polarity and ensuring a secure and tight connection.
Switch on the charger at the mains AC power supply.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p3/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION OF THIS PRODUCT
Disconnect all electrical power to the charger
Make sure the charger cannot operate during installation
Follow all safety warnings of the battery manufacturer
Read and follow all installation instructions
W A R NING
Specifications
Power supply
Operating voltage: 95 – 250 V AC
Operating frequency: 47 – 63 Hz.
DC Charge Output
Nominal voltage: programmable 12 or 24 V DC
Float/boost voltage: programmable, see ‘DC output calibration’ table
Maximum current limit: 10 A
Voltage ripple: <1%
Line regulation: <2%
Load regulation: <2%
Outputs x3 (optional x4 on non-CAN models):
All models:
1 x SPDT (RL1), 1 x SPNC (RL2), 1 x SPNO (RL3),
dry/volt-free contacts (common feed for RL1, RL2 & RL3)
Standard models (non-CAN configurations):
1 x SPNC (RL4), dry/volt-free contacts
standard model output functions are compliant with NFPA 110
Rating (all relays): 1A max @ 30 VDC (resistive load), UL class 2
Inputs x2
Closed to negative DC to activate
Physical
Operating temperature: –40 to +60°C / –40 to +140°F
Display viewability (LCD models only): 0 to 50°C / 32 to 122°F
Humidity: 20% to 90% RH
Dimensions: see Dimensions and Assembly section
Weights: see Dimensions and Assembly section
Electrical safety: 2006/95/EC
Electromagnetic compatibility:
2004/108/EC, EN 55022 class B
(EN 61000-6-1, EN 61000-6-3)
UL approvals
All (E)SNTL300P models:
BBGQ: UL1236, CSA 22.2 no. 107.2
BBHH: UL1236 SE
DC output calibration
Battery type:
float volts
(V DC)
boost volts
(V DC)
12V
Wet (vented) lead acid, 6 cells
13.5
14.1
Calcium-Calcium, 6 cells
13.8
15.6
Lead acid hybrid Sb-Ca, 6 cells
13.5
14.7
VRLA, AGM, 6 cells
13.5
14.4
VRLA, Gel, 6 cells
13.5
13.8
NiCd, 10 cells
14.1
14.5
24V
Wet (vented) Lead acid, 12 cells
27.0
28.2
Calcium-Calcium, 12 cells
27.6
31.2
Lead acid hybrid Sb-Ca, 12 cells
27.0
29.4
VRLA, AGM, 12 cells
27.0
28.8
VRLA, Gel, 12 cells
27.0
27.6
NiCd, 18 cells
25.6
26.1
NiCd, 20 cells
28.2
29.0
Note: Calibration figures at 20 deg C. Output voltage will vary if
temperature compensation is enabled – see Electrical Connection &
Configuration section.
General Information
Please read the following before installing. A visual inspection of this product for damage during shipping is
recommended before installation. It is your responsibility to ensure that qualified mechanical and electrical
technicians install this product. If in doubt, please contact your local Computronic representative.
Sentinel 300P battery chargers provide new levels of DC
power control, monitoring and protection for standby battery
and engine starting applications.
Computronic advanced charger features included as
standard:
Switch mode charging technology: high power efficiency
and low heat dissipation, plus wide supply voltage
tolerance, in a compact and lightweight package.
Multistage charging: float, bulk, absorption and AutoBoost
stages ensure no compromise between rapid charge
recovery and long term battery capacity and life.
Low output ripple: <1% ripple, beneficial for vented lead
acid & NiCd cells, essential for VRLA, and configurable for
use as a stand-alone DC power supply.
AutoBoost: triggered automatically on low charge levels,
or manually by remote switch, AutoBoost temporarily
increases the charge voltage before returning to float mode.
AutoBoost equalises battery cell charge, maximising battery
capacity and life, without overcharge and gassing.
Temperature compensation: ensures batteries are
charged at the optimal voltage, which varies significantly
with ambient temperature. Sentinel can measure
temperature with a battery mounted sensor and adjust
output voltage to prevent under or over charging.
In addition, the Sentinel 300P also provides:
Flexible configuration: microprocessor programmability
for automatic or manual configuration of output voltages
(12 or 24V nominal), cell types/numbers and charging
applications – all in one standard model. Programming is
by circuit board links and/or PC software configuration and
monitoring tool.
Inputs & outputs: for remote charger control, and
signalling of charge fail, high/low battery volts and
mains fail faults. Standard model outputs comply with
the NFPA 110 standard. Non-standard input/output
functions available to special order.
Display, instrumentation and communication: options
are available for LCD readout, analogue amp/volt metering
and CAN SAE J1939 communication. All models include
RS485 communication for configuration and control.
The Sentinel 300P is available either as an open-frame
(UL-recognized) module for mounting in existing control
panels, or as a wall-mounted (UL-listed) stainless steel
enclosure with LCD and analogue metering options.
Electrical connection is by circuit board mounted screw
terminal blocks. On enclosed models, wiring harness
access is by knock-out cable gland holes in the case side.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p4/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
Dimensions and Assembly
CAUTION: Sentinel 300P chargers should be handled by the circuit board cover (SNTL models) or steel
enclosure (ESNTL models). Care should be taken not to handle static sensitive components through exposed
circuit boards and terminals.
SNTL300P models
Overall:
W
158 mm / 6.22 in.
H
208 mm / 8.19 in.
D
84 mm / 3.31 in.
Fixing holes:
X
150 mm / 5.91 in.
Y
150 mm / 5.91 in.
Weight:
1.1 kg / 2.5 lb
These chargers are designed for mounting in a
vertical plane inside an enclosed control panel
or housing. Mounting orientation should be as
shown above, with electrical connection
terminals lowermost.
For safe heat dissipation, mount Sentinel in
the orientation shown, with a minimum air-gap
clearance of 40mm/1.5 in. above/below and
25mm/1 in. at the sides. Consideration must be
given to ventilation for proper heat dissipation.
For surface mounting, use the 2 centre slots (Ø
6mm/0.24in.) or 4 corner slots (Ø 6mm/0.24in.).
Ensure that the mounting studs/bolts/nuts/
screws adequately support the charger, and are
tightened sufficiently to not to become loose
during normal use, e.g. due to engine/equipment
vibration.
Optional clip for DIN rail mounting (2 required for
each charger), part number 045-0001.
ESNTL300P models
Overall:
W
165mm / 6.50 in.
H1
300 mm / 11.81 in.
H2
80 mm / 3.15 in.
D1
125 mm / 4.92 in.
D2
130 mm / 5.12 in.
Fixing holes:
X
63.5 mm / 2.50 in.
Y
285.5 mm / 11.25 in.
Weight:
2.0 – 2.1 kg / 4.4 – 4.6 lb
These chargers are designed for wall or frame mounting in the
orientation shown above, with enclosure air vents uppermost.
For safe heat dissipation, allow a minimum air-gap clearance
of 40mm/ 1.5 in. above/below and 25mm/1 in. at the sides.
Consideration must be given to ventilation for proper heat
dissipation.
Mounting is via the enclosure back-plate, using 4 holes/slots
(Ø 6mm/0.24in.) on the upper and lower edges. Ensure that the
mounting studs/bolts/nuts/ screws adequately support the charger
weight, and are tightened sufficiently to not to become loose during
normal use, e.g. due to engine/equipment vibration.
Access to the electrical connection terminals is via a hinged lower
front plate. Remove the 2 x securing screws (marked S above),
and then rotate the hinged section through 90 degrees.
Electrical cable harness entry is via knock-out ports on either side of
the enclosure, which must be carefully removed from the enclosure
sides. A suitable cable-gland (20mm/0.8in. diam.) must be used to
prevent damage to cables and stop unwanted entry into the inner
part of charger. Wiring for DC charge output (connector CN1),
DC control (CN2) and AC supply input (CN3) must be physically
separate, e.g. using separate wire harnesses and case access ports:
see page 5 section Wire Harness Separation.
Connect the charger wiring as detailed in the following Electrical
Connection section. When wiring is complete, and before using the
charger, re-secure the hinged front section using the 2 fixing screws.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p5/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
Connection - General
Before DC connection or disconnection:
Ensure AC supply input is isolated.
Disconnecting the batteries while the
AC supply is live can result in sparking at
the battery terminals, ignition of battery
gasses and serious personal injury.
Check that the charger has been configured
for compatibility with the battery type &
voltage (see Configuration section below).
Incompatibility may result in damage to
the charger, batteries and serious
personal injury.
CN1
pin
Function
1, 2
+ DC charge output
3, 4
– DC charge output
Electrical Connection
DANGER !
HIGH VOLTS
WARNING: DANGER OF INJURY OR DEATH. During normal operation, Sentinel is
connected to high voltage AC circuits. Before connection, disconnection or handling of
these chargers, ensure isolation of all AC power supplies. Connection or disconnection
with live wiring can also cause hazardous sparking and component damage.
SNTL300P open-frame (protective cover) models:
Open frame models use 3 circuit board mounted screw
terminal blocks:
All models – wire harness separation
For all models, wire connections for the DC charge output
(connector block CN1), DC control signals (CN2) and AC
input supply (CN3) must be physically separated, e.g.
using separate wiring harnesses to each connector block,
separately routed through the case/panel. For enclosed
ESNTL models, use separate cable gland access:
CN1: a 4-way block for connection of the DC Charge
Output. Use a 5 mm/0.2 in. flat-head screwdriver
Battery DC Charge Output
to tighten/loosen the terminals. For the DC Output
(10 Amp max), use 4.0mm²/13 AWG or larger
connecting wire. For details of fusing, see the Battery
DC Charge Output section following.
CN2: a 15-way block for connection of DC control
signals: DC voltage sensing, temperature compensation
remote sensor, control inputs and outputs. Use a
2.5mm/ 0.1 in. flat-head screwdriver to tighten/ loosen
the terminals. Use 1mm²/17 AWG or larger wire for
these connections. This connector block also includes
terminals for RS485 and optional CAN (SAE J1939)
communications: use wiring in accordance with the
appropriate data communication standard (typically a
twisted pair, with shield grounded at one end only).
CN3: a 3-way block for connection of the mains AC live
and neutral power supply. Use a 5mm/0.2in flat-head
Connect the Sentinel output to the battery terminals,
observing the warnings above and the correct DC polarity:
screwdriver to tighten/loosen the terminals. The AC
supply ground/earth must be connected to a separate
M4 stud marked FG (Frame Ground) on the charger
chassis. For all AC supply/ground wiring, use 1mm²/
17 AWG or larger wire conductors rated for 90°C/194°F.
An AC fuse holder is located next to CN3: for fuse
details, see the AC Input (power supply) section
following.
4 LEDs (coloured green, blue, yellow, red) above the
terminal blocks provide indication of configuration and
operating status. Circuit board jumper J2 is for the
configuration of automatic temperature compensation.
For full details of LED and J2 operation, see Configuration
and Operation section.
ESNTL300P (enclosed) models
Enclosed ESNTL models have the same circuit board
terminal numbering as SNTL models.
Access to the screw terminals, and access for the wiring
harness (via cable glands), is detailed in the Dimensions
and Assembly section.
All (E)SNTL300P models include self-resetting electronic
protection against reverse polarity, overload and shortcircuit faults. In the event of such faults, the DC output
switches off, protecting the charger. After a 4 second delay,
Sentinel checks the DC output connection: if the fault has
cleared, the output automatically re-activates; if the fault is
still present, the output deactivates again, and the
delay/check cycle repeats.
If the DC output fails to re-activate after a fault has cleared,
contact your charger supplier for further advice.
Float & AutoBoost output voltages
The DC charge output can be configured to give one of
several 12 or 24V ‘charge profiles’, each with Float and
AutoBoost voltages that are optimised for the battery type
and number of cells.
Charge profile configuration is either via circuit board DIP
switches, or (on LCD models) using display menus and
control keys: see Configuration section below. Charge
profile can also be set using the Computronic SNTL300PPCSUITE PC software tool and RS485 communication link.
For full details, see separate software manual ref. ci0042.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p6/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
Battery DC voltage sense
CN2
pin
Function
1
+ DC voltage sense
2
– DC voltage sense
CN2
pin
Function
3
TC (temperature compensation) sensor
4
Ground (for RTC sensor)
J2 jumper
position /
mode
Description
External /
disabled
(Factory default setting). Temperature
compensation is enabled automatically when a
remote RTC sensor is connected. For each
1°C change in ambient temperature above or
below 20°C (within the range -10 to +50°C),
output voltage automatically varies by 3mV
per cell. Increasing ambient temperatures
cause decreasing output voltages; decreasing
ambient temperatures cause increasing output
voltages.
If no RTC sensor is connected, temperature
compensation is automatically disabled and
the output voltage does not vary with ambient
temperature.
Sensor connection and operating status is
indicated by a blue LED – see Operation
section for details.
Internal
Not for customer use. Temperature
measurement by internal sensor, for factory
calibration only.
Electrical Connection (cont.)
Typical Connection:
Notes:
1. AC input fusing (F1): replaceable, circuit board mounted fuse, rating as shown on the product label.
2. DC output fusing: all models include a self-resetting electronic output fuse.
3. DC output is isolated from chassis.
4. connection shown for standard configurations with output RL4. (RL4 is not available on units configured for CAN communication.)
These terminals are used to accurately measure battery
voltage, independently of the voltage drop that can occur
between the battery and DC charge output (particularly at
higher charge currents, and with longer cables).
Accurate measurement of battery voltage allows Sentinel
to automatically compensate for volt drops in the charging
circuit, by increasing charge voltage.
Connect the battery DC Sense terminals to battery
positive and negative using 1mm²/17 AWG or larger wire.
TC Temperature Compensation Sensor
These terminals allow optional connection of a Computronic
RTC temperature sensor. With the sensor connected, and
the sensor head positioned to give the most accurate/
representative measurement of battery temperature,
Sentinel automatically varies DC output voltage for optimal
charging. Circuit board jumper J2, located between terminal
blocks CN2 and CN3, must also be in the correct position:
CN2 terminals 3 and 4 are designed for connection to a
Computronic RTC sensor only. DO NOT connect other
types of temperature sensor, such as thermocouples,
thermistors or resistance probes.
The standard RTC sensor (part code 42.70.3619) includes
a 3 metre lead assembly. Non-standard lead lengths are
available to special order.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
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Inputs (control)
CN2
pin
Function
5
Input 1: AutoBoost initiate. Allows the operator to
manually initiate one AutoBoost cycle, regardless
of battery voltage. Activation is by momentary
connection to battery negative DC, e.g. using a
push-to-make panel button.
6
Input 2: reduce output to nominal 12 or 24V.
Connect input 1 to battery negative (e.g. via a switch
or relay contact) for as long as the output needs to
be reduced, e.g. for remotely controlled battery test
equipment. In this mode, Sentinel continues to
support any DC load up to the 10 Amp current limit.
CN2
pin
Function
7
Common power feed for RL1 – 3. Connect to the
positive or negative DC supply as required.
8 9 RL1 normally open (N/O) contact.
RL1 normally closed (N/C) contact
Standard function: charge fail. Relay RL1:
energises (pin 8 closes to pin 7, pin 9 opens from
pin 7) during normal charging conditions.
de-energises (pin 8 opens from pin 7, pin 9 closes
to pin 7) if a charge fail fault occurs for longer
than 2 minutes.
10
RL2 normally closed (N/C) contact.
Standard function: low battery volts. Relay RL2:
energises (pin 10 opens from pin 7) during normal
charging conditions.
de-energises (pin 10 closes to pin 7) if a low battery
voltage fault occurs for longer than 2 minutes.
11
RL3 normally open (N/O) contact.
Standard function: high battery volts. Relay RL3:
de-energises (pin 11 opens from pin 7) during
normal charging conditions
energises (pin 11 closes to pin 7) if a high battery
voltage fault occurs for longer than 2 minutes.
CN2
pin
Function
12
13
RL4 common (COM) contact, volt-free/dry
RL4 normally closed (NC) contact, volt free/dry
Standard function: Mains fail. Relay RL4:
energises (pin 13 opens from pin 12) when the
mains AC supply is healthy.
de-energises (pin 13 closes to pin 12) when the
mains AC supply is off or failed.
CN2
pin
Function
12
13
CAN Hi
CAN Lo
CN2
pin
Function
14
15
RS485 A
RS485 B
DANGER !
HIGH VOLTS
Before AC connection, disconnection or fuse
replacement:
Isolate the AC supply
Ensure a good ground/earth connection to
the ground/earth stud (marked FG) on the
charger’s metal chassis.
Ensure the AC supply voltage is
compatible with the charger’s supply
rating. Exceeding the rated voltage may
result in damage to the charger and
connected equipment, and cause
serious personal injury.
Fit only the fuse types/ratings shown on
each product’s label.
CN3
pin
Function
1 2 AC supply live, 95 to 250 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz
AC supply neutral
Electrical Connection (cont.)
All (E)SNTL300P models include two switch inputs for
control purposes. On standard models:
Non-standard control input functions are available to
special order.
Outputs (alarm)
All (E)SNTL300P models include at least three relay
outputs, RL1 – 3. An additional output RL4 is available on
standard (non-CAN) models/configurations. All output
contacts are dry/volt-free (RL1, RL2 and RL3 have a
common power feed), rated 1A @ 30VDC max.
The standard, NFPA 110 compliant output functions are
shown below, but non-standard functions are available to
special order:
CAN (Control Area Network) communications
SNTL300PC, ESNTL300PCL and ESNTL300PCLM
models may be configured with a CAN 2.0B port for data
exchange and control with other CAN devices. The CAN
connection supports the SAE J1939 protocol commonly
found in many industrial engine applications, or custom
CAN protocols to OEM requirements. Connection:
These terminals include an internal 120 Ohm terminating
resistor, designed for connection at the end of the CAN
network. Connection wiring must be in accordance with
the CAN 2.0B standard, typically a twisted pair and shield
cable of maximum network length 40 metres (132 feet),
with the shield grounded at one end only.
RS485 communication
All 300P models include an RS485 MODBUS data port:
These terminals include an internal 120 Ohm terminating
resistor, for connection at the end of an RS485 network.
Connection wiring must be in accordance with the RS485
standard, typically a twisted pair and shield cable with the
shield grounded at one end only.
The RS485 port allows remote communication,
configuration and monitoring with a PC running
Computronic SNTL300P-PCSUITE software. The port can
also be used to transmit RS485 Modbus data about battery
and charger parameters, e.g. to a remote PLC, SCADA or
other control/monitoring system. For further details, please
see separate SNTL300P-PCSUITE document ci0042.
AC Input (power supply)
Models not configured for CAN J1939 communication
include access to relay RL4:
Connect these terminals to the AC power supply. The AC
supply ground/earth must be connected to the M4 stud
marked FG (Frame Ground), located inside the charger
case near connector CN3.
For AC input and ground connections, use 1mm²/
17 AWG or larger wire conductors rated for temperature
90°C/194°F. All models include a replaceable anti-surge
fuse (20mm, type T, 3.15A) in a circuit board mounted
holder, located next to connector CN3.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p8/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
After the POST sequence, the LEDs revert to indication of
Measured
voltage
Operation
< 1 V
No output: battery missing fault signalled.
1 to 16.0 V
Charge output: 12V vented lead acid.
16.1 to 32 V
Charge output: 24V vented lead acid.
Configuration and Operation
Operation
Power-up and POST sequence
At power up, Sentinel goes through a POST (Power On Self Test) sequence, including status indication using 4 LEDs
(located on the main circuit board above connector CN2). The sequence is:
POST LED display
1) LED test: all lit for 2 sec, all off for 2 sec:
2) Indication confirming standard 300P calibrations, 2 sec:
Flashing sequence:
3) Indication confirming selected charge profile, 2 sec:
Nominal
voltage
Battery type
Profile name
DIP switch settings
(0 = off/down, 1 = on/up)
1 2 3
4 5 6
Auto /
local
12 or 24 wet (vented) lead acid
AUTO DETECT
(Local)
0 0 0 0 0 0 Flashing:
Auto /
remote
AUTO DETECT
(Remote)
0 0 0 0 1 0 Flashing sequence:
12V
Wet (vented) lead acid, 6 cells
12V WET LA
0 0 0 1 0
0
Calcium Calcium, 6 cells
12V CA/CA
0 0 1 0 0
0
Lead acid hybrid Sb-Ca, 6 cells
12V LA HYBRID
0 0 1 1 0
0
VRLA, AGM, 6 cells
12V VRLA – AGM
0 1 0 0 0
0
VRLA, Gel, 6 cells
12V VRLA – GEL
0 1 0 1 0
0
NiCd, 10 cells
10 CELL NiCd
0 1 1 0 0
0
12V power supply
12V POWER SUPPLY
0 1 1 1 0
0
24V
NiCd, 18 cells
18 CELL NiCd
1 0 0 0 0
0 NiCd, 20 cells
20 CELL NiCd
1 0 0 1 0
0
Wet (vented) lead acid, 12 cells
24V WET LA
1 0 1 0 0
0
Calcium Calcium, 12 cells
24V CA/CA
1 0 1 1 0
0 Lead acid hybrid Sb-Ca, 12 cells
24V LA HYBRID
1 1 0 0 0
0
VRLA, AGM, 12 cells
24V VRLA - AGM
1 1 0 1 0
0
VRLA, Gel, 12 cells
24V VRLA - GEL
1 1 1 0 0
0 24V power supply
24V POWER SUPPLY
1 1 1 1 0
0
operating status. See LED Indication section below.
Auto mode battery detection
Immediately after power-up, if an ‘Auto’ charge profile has
been selected, the Sentinel 300P measures the connected
battery voltage and operates as follows:
registers a battery missing fault, it checks for reconnection
once every minute (non-adjustable).
Sentinel does not check for ‘battery missing’ during
AutoBoost operation, to ensure maximum charge rate is
maintained.
AutoBoost
If measured battery voltage falls below the Boost Initiate
threshold (below 12.5 V for 12V nominal batteries, or
below 25.0 V for 24V nominal batteries), Sentinel adopts
AutoBoost mode (indicated by a slow-flashing yellow LED)
and charge output increases to the higher Boost voltage
Float mode
If measured battery voltage is within normal limits (above
12.5 V for 12V nominal batteries, and above 25.0 V for
24V nominal batteries), Sentinel adopts float mode
charging, indicated by a constantly lit yellow LED. Sentinel
maintains the battery at the float voltage (appropriate for
the selected battery type), and supplies any additional DC
load current (up to the maximum rated 10 Amps).
Battery check
When in float charge mode, Sentinel periodically checks
for a ‘battery missing’ fault. During this check, output
current reduces to nominal (12 or 24V) for approx. 30
seconds and the yellow LED goes off.
The default period for checking ‘battery missing’ is every
30 minutes, but this time can be adjusted using the
SNTL300P-PCSUITE configuration tool. Once Sentinel
level.
Once measured battery voltage has increased to the
Boost level, Sentinel enters a Boost Extension period (360
mins on standard units), during which time Boost voltage
is maintained and the yellow LED flashes rapidly.
At the end of the Boost extension period, output voltage
and current reduces, but the yellow LED continues to flash
rapidly. In this Boost Decay phase, battery voltage
naturally decreases back towards float level. Sentinel then
reverts to float mode charging, indicated by a continually lit
yellow LED.
AutoBoost can also be initiated manually by an operator,
regardless of battery voltage. This is achieved on standard
units through input 2: after input activation, e.g. by a
momentary push-to-make panel switch, Sentinel goes
through a single AutoBoost cycle.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p9/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
Configuration and Operation (cont.)
DIP switch configuration
WARNING: AC and DC connections must be isolated during DIP switch configuration. The correct battery type
and cell number must be configured correctly before charger power-up and battery connection. Incorrect
configuration may result in under or over charge of batteries, which may cause failure or damage to the batteries,
charger and connected equipment, and result in serious personal injury.
All Sentinel models include a 6 way DIP switch for configuration of battery type and cell number. The DIP switch is accessible
through a cut-out in the case rear:
Open frame SNTL models Enclosed ESNTL models
DIP switch functions:
1 – 4
Sets the charge profile (battery type and cell number) when ‘local’ mode is selected – see switch 6 below.
5
Sets whether the Sentinel charge profile is set in local or remote mode:
Local mode: charge profile set by DIP switches 1 to 4. The default setting is ‘Local, Auto’, where Sentinel automatically selects 12 or 24V operation based on the battery voltage measured at power up – see ‘operation’ below.
Remote mode: charge profile set by remote RS485 communication (e.g. SNTL300P-PCSUITE software), or (on
LCD models only) using display menu options. When remote mode is selected, the default charge profile is ‘Auto’.
6
Reserved use. Do not adjust from default (0/off/down) setting.
Nominal
voltage
Battery type
Profile name
DIP switch setting
(0 = off/down,
1 = on/up)
voltage/time settings
1 2 3 4 5 6 float
(VDC)
boost
(VDC)
boost
initiate
(VDC)
boost
time
(min)
low
alarm
(VDC)
high
alarm
(VDC)
DIP switches 1 – 4, local mode settings
12/24V
Auto
(12V or 24V wet lead acid)
AUTO DETECT
0 0 0 0 0 0 13.5/
27.0
14.1/
28.2
12.5/
25.0
360
12.0/
24.0
16.0/
32.0
12V
Wet (vented) lead acid, 6 cells
12V WET LA
0 0 0 1 0 0 13.5
14.1
12.5
360
12.0
16.0
Calcium Calcium, 6 cells
12V CA/CA
0 0 1 0 0 0 13.8
15.6
12.5
360
12.0
16.0
Lead acid hybrid Sb-Ca, 6 cells
12V LA HYBRID
0 0 1 1 0 0 13.5
14.7
12.5
360
12.0
16.0
VRLA, AGM, 6 cells
12V VRLA – AGM
0 1 0 0 0 0 13.5
14.4
12.5
360
12.0
16.0
VRLA, Gel, 6 cells
12V VRLA – GEL
0 1 0 1 0 0 13.5
13.8
12.5
360
12.0
16.0
NiCd, 10 cells
10 CELL NiCd
0 1 1 0 0 0 14.1
14.5
12.5
360
12.0
16.0
12V power supply
12V POWER SUPPLY
0 1 1 1 0 0 12.0
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
24V
NiCd, 18 cells
18 CELL NiCd
1 0 0 0 0 0 25.6
26.1
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
NiCd, 20 cells
20 CELL NiCd
1 0 0 1 0 0 28.2
29.0
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
Wet (vented) lead acid, 12 cells
24V WET LA
1 0 1 0 0 0 27.0
28.2
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
Calcium Calcium, 12 cells
24V CA/CA
1 0 1 1 0 0 27.6
31.2
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
Lead acid hybrid Sb-Ca, 12 cells
24V LA HYBRID
1 1 0 0 0 0 27.0
29.4
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
VRLA, AGM, 12 cells
24V VRLA - AGM
1 1 0 1 0 0 27.0
28.8
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
VRLA, Gel, 12 cells
24V VRLA - GEL
1 1 1 0 0 0 27.0
27.6
25.0
360
24.0
32.0
24V power supply
24V POWER SUPPLY
1 1 1 1 0 0 24.0
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
DIP switch 5: local / remote mode:
Local
x x x x 0 0
Local mode, profile set by switches 1-4
Remote
Auto Remote
x x x x 1 0 Remote mode, profile set by LCD or PC
software. Default charge profile: ‘Auto’.
DIP switch 6: reserved
x x x x x 0
Default setting, do not adjust.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p10/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
LED indication
LED operation
Status
Red
on
Fault condition (except AC supply &
battery connection errors).
flashing,
slow
AC supply not available
(DC connected).
flashing,
fast
Battery connection error.
off
No fault conditions.
Yellow
on
In Float mode.
flashing,
slow
In AutoBoost mode.
flashing,
fast
In AutoBoost extension mode / boost
decay.
off
Output off / output to nominal.
Blue
on
Temperature compensation active,
sensor connected.
flashing,
slow
Temperature compensation auto
disabled due to external fault.
flashing,
fast
Temperature compensation at absolute
limit, i.e. <–10ºC or >+50ºC.
off
Temperature compensation disabled.
Green
on
AC supply available, charge output on.
flashing,
slow
AC supply available, charge output off.
flashing,
fast
Boost decay or battery missing
(if red LED is also on).
off
AC supply not available.
At power-up, Sentinel
displays an initial message
that includes the unit
firmware version, followed
*******************
* SENTINEL 300P *
* V 3.0 *
*******************
by...
The default operating
screen, showing date, time,
battery volts, charge
current and charge mode.
20/05/10 10:23
VDC: 13.2 ADC: 8.5
FLOAT CHARGE
When Sentinel is in AutoBoost mode, the 4th line changes
to show the current boost stage, displaying (in sequence)
‘ramping to boost’, ‘boost extension’ and ‘boost decay’.
When a fault condition
occurs, an appropriate
message is shown on the
display 3rd line.
20/05/10 10:23
VDC: 13.2 ADC: 8.5
CHARGE FAIL
FLOAT CHARGE
Fault messages automatically clear from the display when
the fault condition clears. In the event of multiple faults,
the 3rd line displays the highest priority message, ranked
in the following order (highest priority first):
AC mains failure
DC connection error
Sensed connection error
Battery missing (detected during battery check routine)
Incorrect battery type (when configured with a 12V
charge profile, but the connected battery voltage is
above 16.1 V).
No battery detected (when configured with an ‘auto’
charge profile, but the connected battery, or lack of
connection, is below 1.0V).
High battery voltage
Charge fail
Low battery voltage
Volt sense level fault
To access the Settings
menu, press and hold the
Up and Down keys. The first
screen displayed is:
SETTINGS
FLOAT: XX.XVDC
BOOST: XX.XVDC
BOOST EXT: XXX MINS
Press Up or Down keys to
view more settings:
SETTINGS
LOW ALARM: XX.XVDC
HIGH ALARM: XX.XVDC
ALARM DELAY: XXX SEC
Press Up or Down keys to
view more settings:
SETTINGS
MODEL: XXXXXXXXX
SERIAL NO: XXXXXX FIRMWARE:
XXXXXXX
Configuration and Operation (cont.)
In normal operation, the four circuit board LEDs indicate
operating status: fault conditions, charge mode,
temperature compensation and AC supply:
Normal charging: float and AutoBoost modes
Fault messages
LCD Models
Enclosed models ESNTL300PCL and ESNTL300PCLM
include a backlit graphic LCD, three push-button controls
(Up, Down, Enter) and three additional indicating LEDs:
Green: CAN network status (CAN-enabled models only).
Lights continuously in normal CAN operation.
Yellow: charging mode, operation as yellow circuit board
LED.
Red: fault conditions, operation as red circuit board LED.
In normal charging mode, the LCD displays Sentinel and
battery status, e.g. operating mode, charge voltages and
currents, date/time, faults, etc.
In configuration menu modes, the LCD and push-buttons
can be used by the operator to view/edit operating
parameters and options (date/time, charge profiles, etc).
Configuration mode
The LCD and control keys can be used to view or change
configuration settings. The Sentinel 300P has three
configuration menus, named ‘Settings’, ‘System’ and
‘CAN’. While the operator is viewing or editing these menu
settings, Sentinel continues normal charge operation, but
current charging status or fault information is not displayed
on the LCD.
Settings menu
This sequence of screens allows viewing (but not editing)
of several operating and device parameters.
Press Up and Down to review the parameters again, or
press Enter to exit the Settings menu.
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Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p11/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
System Menu
4 digit passkey entry.
Use the Up or Down keys to
change the first digit, press
enter, then repeat for 2nd,
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
ENTER PASSKEY? X
UP & DOWN:CHANGE ENTER:OK
3rd and 4th digits.
Correct passkey entry (the factory default is 1234) allows
viewing and editing of the following functions:
Date and time
Press Enter to edit date and
time (5 separate screens for
setting day, month, year,
hours, minutes), or press
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
EDIT DATE & TIME?
ENTER – YES DOWN - SKIP
Down to skip (bypass) this
section and move on to...
Reset AC on hours
Sentinel stores data on the
number of hours it has been
powered. Press Enter to
reset this to zero, or press
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
RESET AC ON HOURS?
ENTER – YES DOWN - SKIP
Down to keep the existing
value and move on to...
Reset Charging hours
Sentinel stores data on the
number of hours it has been
charging the battery. Press
Enter to reset this to zero,
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
RESET CHARGING HOURS?
ENTER – YES DOWN - SKIP
or press Down to keep the
existing value and move on
to...
Change Passkey
Allows custom setting of the
4 digit System Menu
passkey. Press Enter to
change (a series of four
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
CHANGE PASSKEY?
ENTER – YES DOWN - SKIP
screens, one for each
passkey digit), or press
Down to skip this and move
on to...
Select Charging Profile
Allows the charge profile to
be changed (but only if DIP
switch 6 is set to 1/on/up: an
error message results if
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
SELECT CHARGE PROFILE?
ENTER – YES DOWN - SKIP
switch 6 is set to 0/off/down.)
Press Enter to change the
charge profile, which is
selected on a following
screen; or press Down to
skip this and move on to...
Confirm changes
Press Enter to confirm any
System Menu changes and
exit. Press Down to discard
the changes and exit.
DD:MM:YY HH:MM
SYSTEM MENU
CONFIRM CHANGES?
ENTER – YES DOWN – CANCEL
Configuration and Operation (cont.) Configuration and Operation (cont.)
Maintenance, Fault Finding and Warranty
Maintenance and Warranty
Sentinel chargers are supplied with a 2 year warranty on
parts and workmanship.
Maintenance is limited to keeping the charger free from
ingress of dust, dirt or moisture, and ensuring clear air-flow
for ventilation.
In the event of an operating query or suspected fault, please
consult the sections in this manual on LED/LCD indication,
and the flowchart on page 12, or contact your supplier for
further advice before returning the charger.
WARNING: Except for AC fuse replacement,
Sentinel 300P battery chargers are not userserviceable.
In the event of a failure, the charger should be
returned to the supplier. No attempt should be
made to repair the charger. Any attempt to do
so may invalidate warranties, cause damage to
the charger and connected equipment, and
result in serious personal injury.
This passkey-protected menu allows the clearing of the
system log, the resetting of date/time and AC/charging
hours run, and (if DIP switch 6 is set to ‘remote’) the
selection of a charge profile.
To access the System menu, press and hold the Up and
Enter keys.
CAN Menu
On CAN-enabled units, this menu is reserved for
viewing/editing of the CAN network settings.
To access this menu, press and hold Down and Enter
keys. The settings in this menu settings will vary according
to part number specification: please contact Computronic
for separate details or documentation.
Page 12
Sentinel 300P installation, operation & maintenance
ci0039 p12/12 issue 9 2015-09-04
Maintenance, Fault Finding and Warranty (cont.)
Troubleshooting Flowchart:
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