The CHARGE-500 is a user-friendly, high output onboard Smart Charger, designed to charge your
system while on the go. It is simple to install and has automatic voltage detection that enables it to
function only when the engine is running to prevent any vehicle battery drain. The CHARGE-500
is built for road users with onboard power systems that cannot be charged easily from mains or solar.
It can however, work with solar in a hybrid setup.
The CHARGE-500 has MC4 solar type connectors that are easily adapted to work with the
Sherpa Portable Power Station range via their built-in MPPT, offering a faster 42V, 500W charge.
The CHARGE-500 will charge your portable power unit up to five times faster. The equivalent
solar panel area required for the same charge rate would be between one and two square meters
Items included:
1 x CHARGE-500 Smart Charger
1 x 5m, fused (100A) input power cable set
1 x mini screwdriver
User Manual
1. What does the CHARGE-500 Smart Charger do?
It is designed to charge your portable power units while you are driving your vehicle. It will deliver the equivalent charge of about 5m2 foldable solar panels.
2. How does the CHARGE-500 work?
It takes the energy delivered by your vehicle alternator while the engine is running and converts it to the required input for your portable power unit.
3. Can the CHARGE-500 be used on all Sherpa Power Units?
The CHARGE-500 will charge all Sherpa Power Units. However, the PEAK 0.6 does not accept a high charge input so it would not be appropriate to use it on that model.
4. Can the CHARGE-500 be used on other Portabe Power brands?
Yes, it will work on any portable power unit with a built in MPPT that accepts a 42V DC input. Please check the specifications of your unit.
5. Can the CHARGE-500 work on larger commercial vehicles such as 24V trucks?
Yes, it can be set to activate on either 12V or 24V systems by setting the voltage detection dial.
6. Does the charge module have built-in safety features?
The CHARGE-500 can withstand short circuit damage, over voltage input, under voltage input and over-heating.
7. Is the CHARGE-500 easy to install?
It is relatively easy to install; once you have run the included power cable from your vehicle battery to the location you want to place the charge module, it is a simple plug and play process. You may want to seek some advice before running the power cable, which is the most time consuming part of the installation.
8. Will the CHARGE-500 drain my vehicle battery?
If left ON, the module will draw an energy load from the battery that is considered insignificant but it should be turned OFF after making journeys to ensure you do not risk draining the battery over longer periods of time.
9. Can the CHARGE-500 be installed in conjunction with solar?
Solar input should be isolated from the CHARGE-500 input to your portable power unit so that you can switch between charge modes when you need either option.