Why is my BCDC Alpha flashing the B LED?

This information is applicable to the following BCDC Alpha chargers:

• BCDC Alpha 25A DC Battery Charger (BCDC12025B)
• BCDC Alpha 50A DC Battery Charger (BCDC12050B)
• BCDC Alpha50 R DC Battery Charger (BCDC12050R)

WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE?

The BCDC Alpha B status LED will flash along with a solidly illuminated control button LED, this is considered a hard fault condition. 

WHAT DOES THE FLASHING B LED MEAN?

This fault indicates that the BCDC Alpha has detected a possible internal hardware fault.

WILL THE BCDC ALPHA STILL CHARGE MY BATTERY IN THIS CONDITION?

In this fault condition, being a hard fault, the BCDC Alpha will cease charging.  

A Hard Fault means the system will stop charging. A Hard Fault is indicated when the LED corresponding to the fault condition flashes red and the Control Button LED illuminates solid red. 

WHAT CAN CAUSE THIS FAULT MODE?

The BCDC Alpha has detected abnormal operation or an internal hardware fault.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FLASHING B LED?

To determine the cause of this condition, it will require diagnostic testing. REDARC recommends seeking the support of an installer where possible, however please see below a list of the common causes and fixes. 

A) LOOSE CONNECTION AT THE START BATTERY TERMINAL / FUSE HOLDER OR LOOSE GROUND CONNECTION AT THE BCDC

The most likely cause of the internal hardware fault is a poor power supply caused  by a loose or poor ground circuit. 

Things to check: 

1. Ensure connection points are clean, not damaged, or loose. 
2. Remove battery terminal and ensure a clean surface area is provided for the terminal. 
3. Inspect the ground wire (-) to ensure it has a suitable ground connection, such as a terminal attached to bare metal (unpainted surface). 
4. Ensure each crimp connection is strong, a small tug on each wire can confirm this. 
5. Once all connection points have been addressed, refer to step B. 

B) CARRY OUT POWER CYCLE PROCEDURE

Once the power supply and wiring connections have been checked and/or repaired, it's advisable to carry out a full power cycle to reset the BCDC Alpha. This is achieved by following the disconnect and reconnect procedure listed below. 

Disconnect procedure: 

1. Start battery fuse 
2. Auxiliary battery fuse  
3. Solar 
4. Start battery 
5. Auxiliary battery 
6. Ground 
7. Vehicle ignition 
8. Battery temperature sensor 

After being disconnected for 5 minutes, reconnect the BCDC in the following order.

Reconnect procedure

1. Battery Temperature Sensor 
2. Vehicle Ignition 
3. Ground 
4. Auxiliary battery 
5. Start battery 
6. Solar 
7. Auxiliary battery fuse 
8. Start battery fuse  
9. Re-check operation 

If the problem persists, contact REDARC Technical Support.