MC-618 Regulator - 12V with Harness, Clamshell

Designed to provide precise voltage control for Balmar’s high-output 12-volt alternators and other externally regulated P-type alternators, Balmar's updated Bluetooth-capable MC-618 Regulator can also communicate with their advanced SG200 Battery Monitor to provide information to the SG200 Color Display and Smartphone App.
Now you can see how the MC-618 Regulator is directing your onboard charging activity from either the SG200's 2" Color Display or the optional Bluetooth Smartphone App if you purchase the SG2-0404 SmartLink Adapter cable for connecting to a SmartShunt and SG-200 Battery Monitor, if desired. (Not included with either model).

Balmar customers have been asking for years to view regulator information from outside the engine compartment. Balmar has accomplished this goal without the need for a separate dedicated display device!

Basic setup functions can be accomplished from the SG200 Color Display, Smartphone App or the traditional on-regulator programming tool.
Advanced Programming functions are available on the regulator or from the Bluetooth Smartphone App. (Additional items required for Bluetooth connectivity).

Unlike automotive and OEM marine alternator regulators, the multi-stage Max Charge MC-618 can modify the charging voltage to meet the charge state, battery type, and temperature of large marine battery banks. This ensures faster, fuller battery charging, as every step of the process is optimzed for the battery's exact condition.

An onboard microprocessor provides 7 individualized charging profiles for — Deep cycle flooded, standard flooded, gel, AGM, spiral wound AGM (e.g.Optima), Carbon Foam and LiFePO4 batteries. The regulator also features a universal default program that’s designed for use in vessels utilizing voltage sensitive halogen equipment.

In addition to the user selectable preset programs, the MC-618 features a wealth of advanced programming modes which make it possible to tailor charging to a wide variety of environments.

Upon engine startup, the Max Charge gently ramps up to full bulk charging voltage, where most of the fast charging occurs.
Once the bulk charge requirements of the batteries are met, the MC-618 regulator reduces the charging voltage to absorption voltage for a deeper, more complete charge.
When the battery is fully charged, the regulator further reduces to float voltage - where the charging system is able to supply enough charging current to replace whatever electrical load the vessel demands, without overcharging the batteries.

The MC-618 is available with or without an alternator wiring harness. The harness includes power, field, ignition, stator, & ground wires, and a fused sensor wire pigtail.
The regulator without a harness is provided for those needing, or preferring, to do their own wiring.
Purchase the SG2-0404 SmartLink Adapter cable for connecting to a SmartShunt and SG-200 Battery Monitor, if desired. Not included with either model.

NOTE —This MC-618 Regulator is capable of controlling 2 alternators in twin engine installations, if the field wire is split for 2 outputs. To do this, use Balmar's Centerfielder II Dual Alternator Charge Balancer. See Accessory Products.

Max Charge MC-618H features...
• Automatically monitors batteries and uses up to a dozen individual time and voltage values to optimize charging
• Combination of timed and calculation based segments ensure regulator remains in each stage of charge: bulk, absorption, float - for as little or as long is required
• Adjustable start delay allows engine and belt warm-up before the alternator applies horsepower load to the system
• Adjustable belt load manager programming
• 3-digit LED alphanumeric readout
• Monitors and compensates for alternator and battery temperature when equipped with optional sensors (sold separately); alternator temperature sensor (BAL MC-TS-A), battery temperature sensor (BAL MC-TS-B). See Accessory Products
• With a battery temperature sensor installed, among all the MC regulators, the MC-618 has the unique ability to protect lithium-ion batteries from being charged in below freezing conditions