Introducing the PowerMax AC to DC Charger PM4

AC to DC 12V Charger is a robust and versatile device designed for efficient power conversion, transforming 110V AC into 12V DC. This charger features a 100-amp capacity and a four-stage charging system, ensuring optimal battery maintenance and performance. Ideal for various applications, including RVs and boats, it supports all battery types while providing clean, reliable power. The cost of the PowerMax PM4 is approximately $139.99.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
• Output Voltage: 12V DC
• Output Current: Up to 4A
• Efficiency: High-efficiency design with up to 90% efficiency
• Protection Features: Overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, overheat protection
• Connectors: Standard DC barrel connector and additional USB port for charging multiple devices
• Dimensions: Compact design, 4.5 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches
• Certifications: UL, CE, FCC certified for safety and compliance

Description

The PowerMax AC to DC 12V is designed with a sleek and compact body, making it easy to carry and store. The device features a clear LED indicator that shows the status of the power output, ensuring you are always aware of its operational state. The inclusion of both a DC barrel connector and a USB port allows for the charging of multiple types of devices simultaneously, enhancing its versatility.

The charger’s high-efficiency design minimizes heat generation and ensures stable output voltage, making it suitable for sensitive electronic equipment. The robust build quality and comprehensive protection features provide peace of mind, safeguarding your devices from potential electrical hazards.

Setup Guide

To set up the PowerMax Converters AC to DC 12V Charger PM4, follow these steps:

1. Plug the charger into a wall outlet using the provided AC cord.
2. Connect your device to the charger using either the DC barrel connector or the USB port.
3. Ensure the device is turned off before connecting it to the charger if it is not already designed to charge while in use.
4. Turn on the device if necessary and monitor the LED indicator for the charging status.
5. Once charging is complete, disconnect the device from the charger and turn off the power source.

Installation & Maintenance Instructions

SAFETY ALERT

FOR YOUR SAFETY, READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE INSTALLATION AND OPERATION.

INSTALLER: Provide these instructions to the end-user or consumer. 
CONSUMER: Keep these instructions for future reference.

NOTICE: Products are not to be used nor are warranted in aerospace, medical or life safety applications.

WARNING – Avoid Possible Injury or Death 120 VAC is present. This Converter/Charger is designed to convert 120 VAC to 12 VDC. It also provides low voltage power for charging on-board 12 VDC batteries. The Converter/Charger is a “switch mode” type and is designed to be maintenance-free with no user serviceable components. The Converter/Charger power output is “current limiting” by design.

WARNING – Avoid Personal Injury or Product Damage

NEVER store electrical devices in compartments where flammable liquids (such as gasoline) exist.

DO NOT mount/install unit in compartments designed for storage of batteries of flammable liquids.

DISCONNECT DC POWER

• Disconnect the battery POS (+) wire at the battery end before connecting this Converter/Charger to any vehicle/device wiring.

LOCATION

• The mounting location may be on any interior (out of direct weather) surface. Location chosen must be accessible after installation. 
• When mounted inside a cabinet, the cabinet must be large enough to allow dissipation of heated air. Make sure that there is a minimum of 1” (one inch) free air space at each end of the unit so that cooling air can move through the unit properly. 
• AVOID foreign contaminants such as dirt, metal particles or moisture.

MOUNTING

• Flanges with holes are provided for ease of mounting using standard fasteners. 
• Confirm that the surface that the converter is mounted to is solid and will hold the weight (6 lbs) during vehicle operation.

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
A 120 VAC receptacle needs to be located within 36 inches of the Converter/Charger to supply power. Electrical consideration should also be given to mounting near the locations of the batteries and the 12-volt DC distribution panel.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

Be sure to tighten all connections securely. A loose connection can quickly cause terminals and wires to overheat. Review unit labels for recommended terminal torque values.

THE FAN WILL NOT RUN ALL THE TIME. THE FAN IS TEMPETUR CONTROL AND WILL ONLY RUN WHEN NEEDED
Never Leave the PowerMax PM4-XX unattended when plugged in.

All PM4 Products must be installed by a certified electrician.

WARNING – Avoid Possible Injury or Death

120 VAC Connection

• First confirm that the 120 VAC power source AC circuit breaker(s) are in the breakers until installation is complete. position. DO NOT turn-on AC circuit
• Using an 8 AWG minimum size copper wire, attach from the vehicle/device chassis to the Converter/Charger Bonding Lug.
• Using the attached power cord on the Converter/Charger, connect firmly to the 120 VAC receptacle

12 VDC Wiring

• It is important to use the correct wire gauge. Use a minimum of 8 AWG size copper wire.
• The terminal marked or POS is for the RV 12 VDC positive connection.
• The terminal marked or NEG is for the RV 12 VDC negative connection.
• The 12 VDC output wiring does not require over-current protection because the Converter/ Charger limits current output. However, all electrical connections need to comply with the appropriate NEC code.

4 STAGE CHARGING MODE:

This is the Factory Settings with the Smart Charging mode 'ON' with the Output Voltages preset to 14.6V / 13.6V and 13.2V.

DESCRIPTION: This mode provides an automatic charging system in three steps.

1. A fast charge to bring a good, drained battery back up to full voltage rapidly ("Boost").
2. A standard charge to bring the battery up to a full charge at a safe rate to prolong the life of the battery and provide power to run 12V lighting and appliances in the vehicle/device ("Normal").
3. A trickle charge to keep the battery fresh during times of load inactivity ("Storage"). The charger automatically changes modes to accommodate changes in conditions. The chart below is for reference only, voltages may vary.

FIXED VOLTAGE MODE:

DESCRIPTION: This mode can be used to directly power 12 Volt equipment and or maintain the battery at that voltage.

1. To set in fixed mode, with the unit off, move switch A, right to "Fixed Voltage" then plug the unit into 110V power.
2. Turn switch B gently up or down to adjust the voltage between 13~16.5V until reaching your required output.

NOTE: The output voltage you set is now fixed constantly at this level every time the unit is powered ON. To return the unit to its Factory Settings, power down the unit then move switch A, left to "Four Stage". Power up the unit and with a voltage meter attached to the output terminals, use switch B to gently turn the voltage up or down until you reach 14.6V. The unit is now back to the standard “ 4 Stage Charging” Factory Setting

TEST

• First, disconnect all loads and battery on the Converter/Charger by removing all 12 VDC connections from + or POS .
• Second, attach a multimeter instrument between the positive and negative terminals of the Converter/Charger. Then energize the 120 VAC converter circuit.
• Test for proper output power using the multimeter. Measure the output voltage from the positive and negative terminals. The voltage should read 14.6 +/- 0.2 VDC. Add 12 VDC load connections to about 2/3 of the rated capacity of the converter.
• Recheck the voltage, which should remain approximately the same as at no load.

NOTE: If the chargers output voltage is set below the battery voltage the charge will not charge plus the LED will not come on.

BATTERY

• With the 120 VAC disconnected, reconnect the + or POS positive terminal to a known good battery.
• With the converter 120 VAC energized, measure the voltage at the converter and at the battery. The voltage should be about the same in both locations.
• As with any battery it is important that the fluid level be checked on a regular basis.
• When continuously connected to any charging source all batteries will “Gas” and lose some fluid.

WARNING – Avoid Personal Injury / Product Damag

HI-POT TESTING

(Vehicle/device Manufacturing Facilities Only) DO NOT Hi-Pot DC wiring with the Converter/Charger connected to the vehicle/device wiring in order to prevent serious injury and/or damage.

TROUBLESHOOTING

NOTE: Before removing and replacing the Converter/charger, perform the following checks:

• Disconnect the AC power from the vehicle/device.
• Disconnect the wiring and Battery from the Converter Positive
• Re-connect the AC power to energize the Converter. output terminal.
• Using a voltmeter, measure the voltage at the Converter and Output terminals.
  • The Converter is OK if the voltage reading is between 13 VDC and 14 VDC (typically 13.6 VDC).
  • Otherwise, check the table below:

TWO YEAR WARRANTY

(“Supplier”) warrants products it sells against faulty workmanship or the use of defective materials and that such products will conform to published specifications, drawings and other descriptions for a period of two years. The liability of Supplier under this warranty is limited solely to replacing, repairing or, at Supplier's discretion, issuing credit for any devices which are returned by Buyer during the schedule period.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High-efficiency design with minimal heat generation
• Compact and lightweight for easy portability
• Multiple output options (DC barrel connector and USB port)
• Comprehensive protection features (overcharge, short-circuit, overheat)
• Affordable pricing compared to similar products on the market

Cons:

• Limited to 12V DC output; not suitable for higher voltage requirements
• No built-in battery; requires continuous AC power source
• Some users may find the LED indicator too dim in bright environments

Customer Reviews

The PowerMax Converters AC to DC 12V Charger PM4 has received positive reviews from customers who appreciate its reliability, efficiency, and versatility. Many users have praised its ability to charge multiple devices at once and its compact design that fits well in travel bags or toolboxes.

However, some users have noted that the charger can be slightly noisy during operation and that the LED indicator could be brighter for better visibility.

Most Common Complaints

Some of the most common complaints include:

• Noisy operation during charging cycles
• LED indicator not bright enough in bright environments
• Limited to 12V DC output which may not be sufficient for all devices