Electrics: Mastervolt Mac Plus, robust 48-volt B2B charger with bidirectional charging technology

The waterproof Mac Plus B2B chargers are designed for applications where battery chargers are exposed to the elements - for example on fishing vessels, trailers or in open engine compartments. The IP67 certification protects against complete immersion in water up to a depth of one metre for 30 minutes and against dust. The Mac Plus series was introduced two years ago with bi-directional charging technology to solve typical consumer battery charging problems: voltage drops and insufficient charge. With the new waterproof B2B chargers, Mastervolt is now extending the flexibility of its energy systems to outdoor installations.

Bidirectional B2B charger for two battery banks

The particular strength of the Mac Plus B2B chargers lies in their bidirectional technology: unlike conventional DC-DC chargers, which only work in one direction, the Mac Plus can use both connections as input or output. This means that both the consumer battery and the starter battery are reliably charged - regardless of which side is currently being used as the source. The system automatically recognises whether the engine is running or whether a charge is present, thereby protecting the starter battery from discharging when the consumer battery is being charged. This bidirectional function is currently only available on B2B chargers from Sterling Power. The Mac Plus models can be operated in parallel and thus achieve a charging capacity of over 100 amps.

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Robust housing for exposed installations

The waterproof B2B chargers are housed in a robust aluminium casing. A new touch-proof cover provides additional protection for the connections and increases the service life. Thanks to the fanless design, the devices operate completely silently - ideal for installations where noise could interfere with comfort. They utilise the proven Mastervolt 3-Step+ charging algorithm, which is designed to enable fast and uncomplicated charging even with deeply discharged batteries. By stabilising the charging voltage, the Mac Plus protects the consumer battery and other sensitive devices and keeps them in optimum condition for many years.

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Temperature compensation and wide voltage range

The Mac Plus B2B charger equalises the battery temperature to achieve optimum charging performance. A wide DC input range allows operation with all DC sources and charging of two batteries from a single alternator or charger. The devices support all battery chemistries and types, including flooded, gel, AGM and lithium-ion batteries, including LiFePO4. According to the manufacturer, they work seamlessly with modern alternators and ensure reliable charging by delivering constant power even when the alternator is not active. Engine run detection protects the starter battery from discharging.integration into bus systems

The Mac Plus B2B chargers are equipped with CZone, NMEA 2000 and MasterBus communication and can be easily integrated into larger energy systems. Users can monitor and control energy functions from any connected display screen. On-board DIP switches, MasterAdjust and the CZone configuration tool are designed for simple and intuitive set-up. The combination of waterproof design, bidirectional charging technology and comprehensive bus compatibility makes the new Mac Plus B2B chargers an option for skippers who need to install battery-to-battery chargers in exposed areas.

The new 48-volt IP67 Mac Plus B2B chargers are now available in four versions: 48/12-50A, 12/48-15A, 48/24-30A and 24/48-15A. Prices start at around 900 euros. Further information can be found at mastervolt.com.

TECHNICAL DATA MASTERVOLT MAC PLUS:

Available models:

• 48/12-50A (48V to 12V, 50 amps)
• 12/48-15A (12V to 48V, 15 amps)
• 48/24-30A (48V to 24V, 30 amps)
• 24/48-15A (24V to 48V, 15 amps)

Properties:

• Protection class: IP67 (waterproof up to 1 m/30 min)
• Dimensions: 263 x 168 x 75 mm
• Housing: Robust aluminium, touch-proof cover
• Bidirectional technology: Both sides can be used as input or output
• Charging algorithm: Mastervolt 3-Step+, also charges fully discharged batteries
• Operation: Fanless, completely silent
• Temperature compensation and voltage detection: Automatic
• Engine running detection: Protects starter battery from discharging
• Parallel operation: Possible, charging capacity over 100 A
• Battery types: All chemistries (flooded, gel, AGM, lithium-ion, LiFePO4)
• Communication: CZone, NMEA 2000, MasterBus
• Configuration: DIP switch, MasterAdjust, CZone-Tool
• Price: from 900 Euro
• Availability: Immediately
• Website: www.mastervolt.com