Comparison Deca SM C70T vs CTEK MXS 7.0

The number of adjustments (fixed settings) of the current strength provided in the design of the charging device.

One adjustment means that the device is capable of delivering a strictly fixed current. And if there are several adjustments, then the more there are, the more accurately you can adjust the operating parameters for a specific battery, the less likely it is that the optimal current value will fall between two adjustments.

In addition, there are two specific types of adjustment — automatic and smooth. Smooth adjustment allows you to select almost any value of current strength within the adjustment range; in this case, the tuning accuracy can reach tenths or even hundredths of an ampere. On the other hand, such an adjustment is the most demanding on the knowledge and skills of the user: you need to know exactly the parameters of the battery being charged and strictly monitor the observance of the charging mode. The opposite option is automatic adjustment — when the charger independently determines and sets the required current value. This option is as convenient and simple as possible — only some basic settings may be required from the user, for example, specifying the type of battery being charged. At the same time, in some models, automation can not only initially set the optimal current strength, but also...regulate it during the charging process depending on the state of the battery, providing the most efficient and gentle charging mode.

- Voltmeter. A device that measures the operating voltage of a device. The specific purpose of such a device depends on the type of device (see above) and the format of its application. So, when starting, the voltmeter usually displays the voltage at the output of the device, and when charging, it can monitor the power voltage of the battery. In any case, this function provides additional information about the operating parameters.

- Ammeter. A device that measures the amount of power supplied by a device. Most often, this function is used when charging batteries, to control process parameters. However, there are devices that allow you to monitor the power in the process of starting the engine.

- Charging indicator. A pointer that displays the charge level of the car battery connected to the device. The specific device and functionality of such an indicator may be different: in some models it only signals the end of charging, in others it allows you to track the charge level throughout the entire process and even determine the approximate time until the end. Be that as it may, such an indicator makes it easier to follow the charging procedure - in particular, it allows you to accurately determine when the process is completed and the battery is ready for use.

- Recovery (desulfation). Recovery mode for lead...-acid battery plates covered with crystalline deposits of sulfates. Note that the deposition of sulfates in itself is a normal process that occurs when the battery is discharged; when charging, these deposits, which have a porous structure, are destroyed. However, if the battery has been stored in a discharged form for a long time, sulfates turn from a porous form into a crystalline one, and ordinary charging is unable to destroy them. As a result, the performance of the battery deteriorates significantly, up to complete unusability. Recovery mode is used to eliminate such deposits. Its essence lies in the fact that pulses of a specially selected format are applied to the battery, which destroy the sulfate layer and restore the properties of the battery.

- Overcharge protection. Rechargeable battery protection from overcharging - situations when a battery charged up to 100% continues to be under power. This situation leads not only to excessive power consumption, but also to damage to the battery. To avoid this, many devices provide for automation that turns off the output voltage at the end of the charge. This noticeably “simplifies life” for the user: there is no need to constantly monitor the process, it will end on its own at the optimal moment.

- Battery status test. Possibility to check the condition of the battery. The specific set of tools and testing capabilities may be different, it should be specified separately; among the most popular options are power voltage test, charge level test, starting power test, cold start test. Be that as it may, this function can be very useful for general preventive diagnostics, and for checking the condition of the battery before charging.

- Winter charging mode. Specialized mode for charging the battery at low ambient temperatures. Under such conditions, the properties of batteries change somewhat, and a strong charge power can lead to sudden heating and damage to the battery. In light of this, it is worth using specialized devices to charge the battery in cold weather.

- Battery storage mode. An operating mode designed for long-term storage of batteries. In this mode, the device is constantly connected to the battery, it monitors the level of charge and periodically recharges the battery with low currents, keeping it in a state of constant readiness and preventing loss of performance.

- Power supply 12 V (supply mode). An operating mode in which the device serves as a constant 12 V power source and allows you to disconnect the battery without losing important settings on the car's on-board computer. However, this mode can also be used outside the car - when it is turned on, the device acts as a conventional 12 V power supply.

- Fast charge timer. Timer counting down the time in fast charging mode. This mode, in accordance with the name, allows you to reduce the time to charge the battery, however, fast charging is carried out at high currents, due to which even a small overcharge can lead to unpleasant consequences. And it is impossible to provide protection against overcharging in the traditional way (see above) with such a procedure for a number of technical reasons. In light of this, devices with a fast charging function provide a timer that counts down the time and gives a signal at the end of the process; some models may also have automatic power off.

- Remote start button. The engine start button, located separately from the body of the starting charger and connected to it with a wire of a rather long length. This button allows you to control the operation of the "launcher" at a distance - for example, sitting in the cockpit. This feature is especially useful when working with heavy equipment such as trucks or buses, where the cab can be located at a considerable distance from the hood.

The level of protection against dirt and moisture provided by the body of the charger. It is indicated according to the IP standard in two numbers: the first (from 1 to 6) means resistance to the penetration of foreign objects and dust, the second (from 1 to 9) - protection against moisture. A detailed explanation of these designations can be found in additional reference materials, but here we note that the larger the number, the higher the level of protection provided.