Raritan Engineering | Converters FAQ

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Converters Questions:

Q1	What is a converter?
Q2	May Raritan converters be used to charge "gel" cell batteries?
Q3	Are Raritan converters ignition protected?
Q4	What is the difference between the "F" and the "B" series?



A1	What is a converter? A converter converts A.C. voltage to D.C. voltage. Raritan converters utilize a transformer to reduce the voltage from 120 (or 240) volt household voltage to nominal 12, 24 or 32 (depending on the particular converter) volt D.C. battery voltage. In the marine environment, a converter is primarily utilized as a battery charger. All standard Raritan converters are equipped with (3) outputs, allowing them to charge three batteries or three banks of batteries. On special order, certain Raritan converters are available with (4) outputs, enabling them to charge four batteries or four banks of batteries. Back to top
A2	May Raritan converters be used to charge "gel" cell batteries? Raritan "F" series converters are designed for conventional lead/acid batteries only. Attempting to use the "F" series converter to maintain "gel" cell and the newer "AGM" batteries will give unsatisfactory results. Raritan "B" series converters will satisfactorily maintain "gel" cell and "AGM" batteries but require an internal adjustment, contact Raritan Technical Support for details. Back to top
A3	Are Raritan converters ignition protected? Yes. All Raritan converters are solid state and are ignition protected. Back to top
A4	What is the difference between the "F" and the "B" series? The "F" series Raritan converter uses Ferroresonant technology that eliminates the need for a control circuit. It will slowly bring the batteries up to full charge and maintain them at that level. The "B" series uses linear SCR technology and operates much faster than the "F" series. When plugged in at dockside it will pick up a D.C. load from an onboard accessory, such as a bilge pump, and instantly replace it, up to the capacity of the converter. When the load exceeds the capacity of the converter, it will continue to put out amperage after the load has terminated until the battery(ies) come up to full charge. Back to top

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Last updated: Tuesday, July 31, 2007
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