Redarc GoBlock PPS12050 User manual

MODELS:
 PPS12050
 PPS12100

Not all portable power is created
equal. Only one system was designed,
engineered, built and tested to handle
the most unforgiving conditions on
earth — the Australian Outback.
The GoBlock®is a fully contained Portable
Dual Battery System that also functions
as a Portable Power Station, and can be
used without any installation.
GoBlock®features output sockets for
charging common camping and outdoor
products and mobile electronics devices,
and also connects to the free RedVision®
App for maximum freedom and control.

CONTENTS
WARNINGS & SAFETY INFORMATION �� 4
QUICK START ��������������������������������������������� 6
GoBlock PARTS ������������������������������������������ 8
GoBlock CONTROLS AND LEDS ������������10
Control Button LED �����������������������������������10
Battery Level LEDs������������������������������������11
TURN GoBlock ON AND OFF������������������12
CHARGE THE GoBlock ����������������������������13
Charge From an AC Outlet ������������������������13
Charge From a Vehicle Accessory Socket��14
Charge Directly From a Vehicle Alternator �� 15
Charge From the PowerDock ��������������������16
Charge From Solar Panels/Blankets�����������17
SOLAR PANELS ���������������������������������������18
Portable Solar Panels �������������������������������� 18
Solar Panels via the PowerDock ����������������19
CHARGING VEHICLE BATTERIES�����������20
Recovery Mode����������������������������������������� 20
Green Power Priority ��������������������������������� 22
REDARC RedVision®APP������������������������23
Pair to the GoBlock Via Bluetooth��������������23
Controlling the GoBlock Remotely �������������25
TRANSPORTING THE GoBlock���������������26
Carry Handles �������������������������������������������26
Safe Vehicle Transportation������������������������27
CARE AND MAINTENANCE �������������������29
Care and Maintenance Advice ������������������� 29
Long-Term Storage ����������������������������������� 30
INVERTERS�����������������������������������������������31
TROUBLESHOOTING �������������������������������32
Faults�������������������������������������������������������� 32
Alerts ��������������������������������������������������������32
General Troubleshooting����������������������������35
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS����������������37
WARRANTY����������������������������������������������40
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION������������������41
Safe Disposal of the Product ���������������������41
GoBlock Shipping Advice ��������������������������41
Checking the Product Serial Number���������41

4 | Warnings & Safety Information
WARNINGS & SAFETY INFORMATION
Save these instructions — this manual contains important safety instructions.
Do not operate the system unless you have read and understood this manual.
REDARC recommends that the PowerDock referenced in this manual be installed by a suitably
qualified person (PowerDock not included).
Disclaimer: REDARC accepts no liability for any injury, loss or property damage which may occur
from the improper or unsafe installation or use of its products.
WARNING
An unsecured GoBlock can become dangerous in an accident or sudden stop. The GoBlock
must be adequately restrained for safe transportation in a vehicle (page27). Choose
appropriate load restraint equipment, and ensure it’s in good working order before every use.
Keep clear of naked flame, sparks or conductive material while charging/discharging
the GoBlock.
Do not attempt to alter or disassemble the GoBlock under any circumstances. Incorrect
handling or reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock, fire or explosion. Any attempt
to disassemble the unit, make unapproved repairs or modifications will void the warranty and
the user’s authority to operate the GoBlock.
Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries, as an explosion may result.
Do not insert foreign objects or fingers into the input/output sockets.
Do not expose the battery to temperatures beyond the published limits.
Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire.
Do not crush or puncture the battery.
Do not submerse the battery in liquid — GoBlock is NOT waterproof.
Do not operate the battery beyond the published ratings. Doing so may result in damage to
the battery, fire, explosion and ultimately burns. For this reason, it is of utmost importance
that you follow the instructions when installing and using the GoBlock.
The GoBlock has a rugged design that can withstand significant forces, however if the
GoBlock main housings should become damaged heavily (cracked or broken), discontinue
use of the unit immediately.
Do NOT alter or disassemble the Go-Block under any circumstances. All faulty units must
be returned to REDARC for repair. Incorrect handling or reassembly may result in a risk of
electric shock or fire and will void the unit warranty.
CONTENTS

Warnings & Safety Information | 5
CAUTION
The Battery should not be used by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they are
supervised or have been instructed on how to use the appliance by a person responsible for
their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the GoBlock.
Cable and fuse sizes are specified by various codes and standards which depend on the type
of vehicle the GoBlock is installed into. Selecting the wrong cable or fuse size could result in
harm to the installer or user and/or damage to the Battery or other equipment installed in the
system. The installer is responsible for ensuring that the correct cable and fuse sizes are used
when installing the GoBlock PowerDock. Refer to the installation instructions supplied with
the REDARC PowerDock for detailed information.
NOTICE
Keep the GoBlock away from major heat sources, high voltage, and avoid exposed sunlight
for long periods of time.
REDARC recommends only using genuine Anderson™ connectors for GoBlock installations.
Counterfeit or generic connectors may result in a poor quality connection.
SAFETY MESSAGE CONVENTIONS
Safety messages in this manual include a signal word to indicate the level of the hazard as follows:
WARNING Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury to the operator or to bystanders.
Carefully read the message and follow instructions precisely.
CAUTION Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in moderate or minor injury to the operator or to bystanders.
Read the message and follow instructions precisely.
NOTICE Indicates a situation that will not cause personal injury but may cause
equipment damage.
CONTENTS

6 | Quick Start
QUICK START
Before you begin, make sure the GoBlock firmware is up-to-date.
Download and install the RedVision®App on your smartphone and connect it to
your GoBlock (see page23).
The app will automatically detect if there is a new firmware version
available — simply follow the in-app prompts to install the new firmware.
REDARC recommends disconnecting from all inputs and outputs before
commencing a firmware update.
GET THE RedVision®APP
Download the free REDARC RedVision® App to
connect the GoBlock to your smartphone via
Bluetooth®. Scan the QR code or search for
‘REDARC’ on your device’s app store.
Use the app to control and monitor your GoBlock remotely, and
get access to in-app features, the latest GoBlock firmware and
help. More on page23.
The RedVision® App and its interactions with the GoBlock have not been tested on
all smartphone models. Visit the application pages within each App store to view
compatibility details.
GET THE APP…
CONTENTS

Quick Start | 7
Charge for 24 hours
The GoBlock is supplied partially charged. To get the best out of your GoBlock, fully charging
it before the first-use is recommended. This will allow the internal cells to equalise and ensure
optimum life-cycle and performance of your GoBlock.
Connect the GoBlock to a powered wall outlet using the 7.5A Mains Trickle-Charger. Charge for
approximately 24 hours. See page13 for more ways to charge your GoBlock.
…CHARGE…
…GO
CONTENTS

8 | GoBlock Parts
GoBlock PARTS
1. Trickle-Charge Input
Input socket for charging the GoBlock battery from
either the supplied 7.5A Mains Trickle-Charger
(page13) or the 7.5A Accessory Socket
Trickle-Charger (page14).
2. Merit Socket
Connect devices with a Merit connector
(15Amaximum).
3. Fridge Socket
Connection point for a portable fridge (15Amaximum).
4. Accessory Socket
Connect devices with an automotive Accessory
connector (cigarette lighter type) (10Amaximum).
5. 50A Anderson™ Output
Connect devices with an Anderson™ connector (50A
maximum). Connect an inverter (max. 700 W) for
powering AC devices such as laptops.
6. USB Type A (× 4)
Four USB Type A ports (2.4Aeach).
7. PowerDock Anchor Point
The PowerDock connects securely onto the Anchor
Point when the GoBlock is docked and locked.
8. Restraint Strap Guides (× 4)
Indented guides to assist with the positioning of
tie-down straps for safe transportation (page27).
9. Protective Covers
Prevents dust and light water spray from entering the
input/output sockets.
10. Cable Strain Relief
Protects the Anderson™ Output connector from strain
or accidental disconnection (page29).
11. Control Button
A Multi-function button that turns the GoBlock On and
Off (page12), turns the Battery Level LEDs On, and
Initiates Recovery Mode (DockandAux)(page20).
The Control Button illuminates in different colours to
display GoBlock operational information (page10).
9
1 2 3 4 5 6
8
9
14
711
8
8
14
10
NOTE: The total output capability of the GoBlock is 50A. If the total draw of loads connected to the outputs exceeds
50A then the listed maximum rating of each output may not be achieved.
CONTENTS

GoBlock Parts | 9
12. Auxiliary Anderson™ Input (50A)
Connection interface for Auxiliary input including solar
panels (page17) and Battery Recovery Leads/Clips
(notincluded) for the Recovery function (page21)
Charge your GoBlock directly from a vehicle alternator
(page14) (cable notincluded).
13. Storage Isolation Switch
Isolates the GoBlock's internal battery for prolonged
periods of storage (or prior to shipping) (page30).
14. Carry Handles
The extendable Carry Handles are a comfortable and
safe way to carry the GoBlock (page26).
15. Battery Level LEDs
Displays the charge level of the internal battery during
charging/discharging (page11).
Displays Alert Codes for the identification of Alerts
(page32).
16. PowerDock Interface
Connection interface for the REDARC PowerDock (not
included, available for separate purchase).
17. 7.5A Mains Trickle-Charger
Charges the GoBlock from an AC wall outlet via the
Trickle-Charge Input (page13).
18. 7.5A Accessory Socket Trickle-Charger
Charges the GoBlock from a vehicle accessory socket
via the Trickle-Charge Input (page14).
18
13
14
16
8
15
7
12
9
19
17
19. Battery Recovery Leads (not included)
Connect a flat auxiliary battery to the GoBlock
Auxiliary Anderson™ Input for the Recovery
function (page21).
CONTENTS

10 | GoBlock Controls and LEDs
GoBlock CONTROLS AND LEDS
Provided that the GoBlock has adequate charge, the Battery Level LEDs will display the GoBlock's
charge level for 30 seconds by doing one of the following:
Press the Control Button.
Plug devices/chargers into the GoBlock input/output sockets.
Open the RedVision®App (page23) that has been previously paired to the GoBlock.
NOTE: If the GoBlock does not give any LED indications, check that the Storage Isolation Switch
(page30) is turned 'ON' before trying again.
Control Button LED
The Control button provides an interface for you to power On/Off the GoBlock, access and initiate
Recovery Modes, and operate Bluetooth®functions. It has an LED that illuminates in white, blue,
green, yellow, and red to indicate the status of each GoBlock function.
NOTE: When the GoBlock is in App Control Mode, the Control Button menu is disabled and all
GoBlock functions must be controlled via the App.
A Control Button LED reference label is located on the underside of the adjacent Protective Cover.
Turn GoBlock On/Off (press and hold) (page12)
Bluetooth®Pairing Mode (page23) App Control Mode (page23)
Recovery Mode (Dock) (page20) Recovery In Progress (Dock)
Recovery Mode (Aux) (page21) Recovery In Progress (Aux)
Alert (page32) Fault (page32)
CONTENTS

GoBlock Controls and LEDs | 11
Battery Level LEDs
The primary function of the Battery Level LEDs is to display the battery level during both charging
and discharging, however it also displays the following information:
Alert Codes to notify the user in the event of an Alert (page32).
The progress of the Recovery (Dock) and Recovery (Aux) Modes (page20).
Displays the Power Off count-down when turning the GoBlock off (page12).
Note that the Battery Level LEDs always fill from bottom to top consecutively when displaying
the battery charge level. If the Battery Level LEDs display a non-consecutive LED pattern, this is
indicative of an Alert or Recovery progress.
Battery charge remaining
Displays the amount of charge
remaining in the GoBlock.
Battery charging progress
Each segment will flash while
it is charging.
LOW BATTERY
When the battery level is low (less than 5% charge remaining), the GoBlock will operate normally.
There will be an alarm tone that will repeat each time the charge level reduces by a further 1%.
When the battery level is critically low (less than 3% charge remaining), the Control button will flash
red, and the GoBlock will disable outputs and will go to sleep. The GoBlock will automatically power
off when the battery level reaches 0%.
CONTENTS

12 | Turn GoBlock On and Off
TURN GoBlock ON AND OFF
GoBlock features an automatic Sleep Mode to save power, and will wake up automatically when a
load or input is detected.
GoBlock can also be turned Off via the Control Button. This disables Bluetooth®and disconnects all
input/output sockets so that loads plugged into the GoBlock do not draw power.
NOTE: The Storage Isolation Switch does NOT turn the GoBlock Off — loads may still be powered
via the output sockets if there is any input source.
Do not use the Storage Isolation Switch to turn the GoBlock on/off during normal use. Instead, turn
the unit on/off via the Control Button.
The Control Button turns the
GoBlock on, off, and wakes it
up from Sleep Mode.
Turn the GoBlock On
Make sure the Storage Isolation Switch is turned'ON'. See 'Storage Isolation Switch' (page30).
Press the Control Button once to turn the GoBlock On. GoBlock will beep once and the Battery
Level LEDs will illuminate.
Turn the GoBlock Off
Make sure the Control Button LED is either solid blue or off, then Press and hold the Control
Button for approximately 5 secondsor longer. After a further 3 seconds the Control Button LED
will illuminate white and the Battery Level LEDs will begin to count down. The Battery Level LEDs
will count down from top to bottom. Continue pressing the button until there are three beeps — all
outputs and the Auxiliary Anderson input are now Off.
The count-down can be cancelled at any time by releasing the Control Button.
The Control Button LED is solid white during the
Power Off count-down (press and hold).
CONTENTS

Charge the GoBlock | 13
CHARGE THE GoBlock
GoBlock contains a high-quality lithium iron phosphate battery (LiFePO4) battery that is capable of a
rapid 50A recharge rate.
The GoBlock is supplied partially charged, however charging the battery fully before its first use is
recommended. This is in order to equalise the internal battery cells for optimum battery cycle-life,
and to ensure that the Battery Level LEDs are as accurate as possible.
The GoBlock does not need to be completely flat before charging and can be topped up
at any time.
CAUTION
When recharging the GoBlock internal battery at the full 50A rate, or when the total
input/output load current is ≈50A, the top housing around the inputs/outputs may become
hot — take care when handling.
When recharging the GoBlock internal battery, ensure that there is airflow around the unit
to prevent it from overheating — do not charge in direct sunlight/hot area as the charging
performance may be affected.
Only use the supplied AC Charger (Mains Trickle-Charger) to charge the GoBlock.
The GoBlock has the following charging options:
7.5A AC Mains Trickle-Charger (240VAC) (supplied)
7.5A DC Accessory Socket Trickle-Charger (supplied)
Up to 50A Anderson™ input from solar panels (solar panels sold separately)
50A Anderson™ input using vehicle power (Anderson™cable required, sold separately)
50A DC vehicle power via the PowerDock (dock sold separately)
Up to 50A DC fixed solar panels via the PowerDock (dock and solar panels sold separately)
Charge From an AC Outlet
Plug the supplied 7.5A Mains Trickle-Charger into a powered AC outlet, then plug the charger into
the Trickle-Charge Input on the GoBlock.
Charging from an AC wall outlet.
CONTENTS

14 | Charge the GoBlock
Charge From a Vehicle Accessory Socket
Plug the supplied 7.5A Accessory Socket Trickle-Charger into a vehicle accessory socket in your
vehicle, then plug the charger into the Trickle-Charge Input on the GoBlock.
The GoBlock will charge at a maximum rate of 7.5A, however this may be less depending on the
voltage of the vehicle.
IMPORTANT: When charging via the 7.5A Accessory Socket Trickle-Charger, the GoBlock may
completely discharge your vehicle battery in the following cases:
If the vehicle accessory socket is connected directly to the vehicle start battery; i.e. the socket is
powered even when the vehicle ignition is off)
When the ignition is in the 'ACC' position; e.g. listening to music while the engine is not running.
Ideally, only charge via the vehicle accessory socket when the engine is running.
CAUTION
When charging the GoBlock from a vehicle accessory socket, ensure that the Trickle-Charger
accessory connector is fully inserted into the accessory socket in the vehicle. Poor contact
can cause the plug to overheat.
The Accessory Socket and Trickle-Charger connector may become hot during
normal use — take care when handling.
Charging from a vehicle accessory socket using the Trickle-Charger.
CONTENTS

Charge the GoBlock | 15
Charge Directly From a Vehicle Alternator
Connect directly to your vehicles alternator via an extension cable (not included) to the Auxiliary
Anderson™ Input on the back of the GoBlock. Use a suitable adaptor if the power output connector
on you vehicle is not an Anderson™ connector.
Visit the REDARC website for detailed instructions on how to run a direct wire from your start
battery to charge via the Auxiliary Anderson Input.
The extension cable positive wire must be fused to 60A. Refer to the 'Cable Sizing' table to select
an appropriate cable gauge for your installation.
NOTICE
REDARC recommends only using genuine Anderson™ connectors manufactured by
Anderson Power Products®for GoBlock installations. Counterfeit or generic connectors may
result in a poor quality connection.
Charging from a vehicle alternator via an Anderson™ cable.
CABLE SIZING
Purchase cable length and gauge to suit your individual installation. Cable length refers to the total
cable length of the install (positive + negative cable length). Always choose a wire cross sectional
area equal to or greater than what is specified below. The selected cable must be capable of
carrying a minimum of 60A.
Cable Install Length Recommended Wire
Cross Section
Closest Equivalent
(BAE, B&S, AWG)
1–5m 3'–16' ≥13.56mm² 6
5–9m 16'–30' ≥20.28mm² 4
CONTENTS

16 | Charge the GoBlock
Charge From the PowerDock
NOTE: PowerDock is sold separately.
Depending on the PowerDock installation configuration, GoBlock will automatically charge
simultaneously via the PowerDock from the following sources:
Fixed solar panels (e.g. vehicle-mounted solar panels) (1)
Vehicle power (2)
The charging sources will be automatically selected based on the priority defined by the Green
Power Priority feature (page22).
Charging from an installed PowerDock.
NOTE: Installation configurations may vary.
2
1
CONTENTS

Charge the GoBlock | 17
Charge From Solar Panels/Blankets
CAUTION
The maximum total output voltage of solar panels connected to the GoBlock must not exceed
32V. Excessive voltage (>32V) from solar panels may damage the GoBlock internal electronics
and could cause the unit to become hot. If overheating or smoke is detected, immediately
disconnect the solar panels.
NOTICE
Do not connect solar panels to the 50A Anderson™ Output on the front of the GoBlock, as
this may damage the unit. ONLY connect solar panels to the Auxiliary Anderson™ Input on
the back of the GoBlock.
Do not connect solar panels that have an in-built solar regulator, as it can interfere with the
performance of the GoBlock's internal solar regulator.
Plug the solar panel's Anderson™ connector into the Auxiliary Anderson™ Input on the back of the
GoBlock. An adaptor cable will be required if the panel does not have an Anderson™ type connector.
If using portable/folding solar panels or a solar blanket, position the panels to directly face the sun.
This will ensure that maximum solar energy is collected.
For detailed information about using solar panels with your GoBlock, see page18.
Charging from 12V portable solar panels (or blanket).
12 V
CONTENTS

18 | Solar Panels
SOLAR PANELS
The GoBlock can be connected to Solar Panels in two ways:
By directly connecting a solar panel to the Auxiliary Anderson™ Input on the GoBlock. See
'Charge From Solar Panels/Blankets' on page17 for safety information.
When docked in the PowerDock (sold separately) that has solar panels hard-wired to it.
GoBlock utilises intelligent Green Power Priority technology (page22) in order to collect maximum
solar energy from your solar panels.
Portable Solar Panels
Portable solar panels and solar blankets can be connected directly to the GoBlock via the Auxiliary
Anderson™ Input.
NOTICE
Do not connect solar panels that have an in-built solar regulator, as it can interfere with the
performance of the GoBlock's internal solar regulator.
1. Check if the solar panel has an Anderson™ connector — if not, use a suitable
adaptor (not supplied).
2. Make sure the panels are free of dust and dirt— if not, wipe gently. Take care when cleaning to
avoid scratching the panels, as scratches may reduce the performance of the panels.
3. Connect the Anderson™ connector on the solar panel to the Auxiliary Anderson™ Input on the
back of the GoBlock — DO NOT connect it to the Anderson Output on the front.
4. Position the solar panel to directly face the sun, making sure that the panel is not partially
shaded. If the panel cannot be positioned to directly face the sun, it can be oriented to face the
equator at an angle of 45 degrees.
5. The GoBlock will automatically begin charging if there is adequate solar energy available,
i.e., if it is sunny enough.
CONTENTS

Solar Panels | 19
Solar Panels via the PowerDock
Solar panels can be hard-wired to the GoBlock PowerDock solar output. This allows the GoBlock to
automatically charge from solar panels when docked.
For detailed information, refer to the installation instructions supplied with the PowerDock.
REDARC Solar Products
NOTICE
All accessory cables used with your GoBlock solar charging set-up must be adequately rated
(i.e. a suitable diameter) to support the maximum short-circuit current rating of your solar panel.
REDARC Recommends the following REDARC solar products for charging your GoBlock.
Visit the REDARC website to view the full range of REDARC solar products.
Solar Panels
REDARC 190W solar blanket (SSF1190)
REDARC 200W monocrystalline portable folding solar panel (SPFP1200)
REDARC 180W monocrystalline fixed solar panel (SMSP1180)
Extension Cables
10m (32') Anderson-to-Anderson™ extension cable (SRC0019)
5 m (16') Anderson-to-Anderson™ extension cable (SRC0018)
CONTENTS

20 | Charging Vehicle Batteries
CHARGING VEHICLE BATTERIES
The GoBlock can charge a vehicle battery via the Recovery Modes.
Recovery Mode
In the event of a flat vehicle start battery, the GoBlock Recovery feature enables you to sacrifice
some GoBlock charge and safely return it to the flat vehicle start battery.
This process can be initiated when the GoBlock is docked in the PowerDock, or by connecting the
GoBlock Auxiliary Anderson™ Input to a vehicle start battery using Battery Recovery Leads (not
supplied).
Once Recovery is initiated, GoBlock will charge the flat vehicle battery for approximately 15 minutes,
providing enough charge to safely start the vehicle. The 15 minute profile is designed to recover
and perform maintenance on the flat vehicle start battery, providing a much better outcome than a
standard jump-start.
RECOVERY — VIA THE PowerDock
1. Enter Recovery Mode (Dock) by pressing the Control Button until it flashes green.
Flashing green: Recovery (Dock) is ready to initiate.
2. To initiate the Recovery process, press the Control Button for more than onesecond. The control
button LED will illuminate solid green to indicate that Recovery is in progress.
Solid green: Recovery (Dock) in progress.
3. Progress will be displayed by the Battery Level LEDs. The green Battery Level LEDs will
illuminate at a rate of approximately one LED every three minutes.
4. When Recovery is complete, the four green Battery Level LEDs will flash and an audio tune will
play. This will continue for approximately three minutes, or until a vehicle input is detected.
The green Battery Level LEDs
illuminate in sequence during the
Recovery progress.
All green Battery Level LEDs are
flashing — Recovery is ready.
CONTENTS