Valence RT User manual

U-CHARGE®RT BATTERY MODULE
USER’S GUIDE
Please read all contents of this User’s Guide prior to the installation
of U-Charge® RT energy storage system.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. CONTACT INFORMATION ..................................................................................................... 3
2. SAFETY INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 5
2.1 Internal Protection Features ...........................................................................................................6
3. BEFORE YOU START .......................................................................................................... 7
3.1 General information ........................................................................................................................7
Table 1: Shows charge voltage ratings for packs connected in 1, 2, 3 or 4 in series. ..............8
4. CONTENTS/TOOLS REQUIRED............................................................................................. 8
Table 2: Contents and tools required ................................................................................................8
5. Installation....................................................................................................................... 8
5.1 Tips .................................................................................................................................................8
5.2 Installation of U-Charge®RT Battery into a 12 V System ...............................................................9
5.3 Installation of up to 4 batteries in Series .......................................................................................10
Table 3: Pin-out of the RS-485 communication ports in U-Charge®RT power system................... 11
6. CHARGING THE BATTERIES ............................................................................................. 12
6.1 Select a Proper Battery Charger...................................................................................................12
6.2 Charging the Battery.....................................................................................................................12
7. U-CHARGE®RT POWER SYSTEM FEATURES ..................................................................... 13
7.1 Discharge Control .........................................................................................................................13
7.2 Charge Control .............................................................................................................................14
7.3 State Of Charge (SOC) Measurement ..........................................................................................14
7.4 Cell Balancing...............................................................................................................................14
7.5 U-Charge®RT Battery Specifications ...........................................................................................15
Table 4: Battery Specifications........................................................................................................15
Table 5: Self Discharge Rates ........................................................................................................15
Table 6: U-Charge®RT Specifications ............................................................................................16
8. BATTERY STATUS INDICATION ........................................................................................... 17
8.1 GREEN LED: Normal Operation...................................................................................................17
8.2 YELLOW LED: Indication .............................................................................................................17
8.3 RED LED: Fault Indication............................................................................................................18
8.4 No LED Indication: Severely Over Discharged .............................................................................18
9. TIPS FOR OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE................................................................................. 18
10. MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE ......................................................................................... 19
10.1 Visual Inspection.........................................................................................................................19
10.2 Voltage Checking........................................................................................................................19
10.3 Battery Storage...........................................................................................................................19
Table 7: Recharge Guidelines.........................................................................................................19
10.4 Battery Serial Number ................................................................................................................20
11. TRANSPORTATION AND SHIPPING .................................................................................... 20
12. BATTERY OVERHEATING................................................................................................. 21

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
13.1 Recycling ....................................................................................................................................22
14. USE IN LIFE SUPPORT APPLICATIONS .............................................................................. 23
15. LIMITED WARRANTY ....................................................................................................... 23

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
1. CONTACT INFORMATION
Customer Support:
8 AM to 5 PM CST
1-888-VALENCE (USA Customers Only)
1-888-825-3623
For North America Support
1-888-825-3623
For European, Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australia Support
[phone] (N. Ireland)
9 AM to 5 PM GMT
Sales:
1-888-825-3623
Fax:
1-512-527-2910
Sales Email:
[email protected]
Support Email:
[email protected]
Mailing Address USA:
Valence Technology, Inc.
12303 Technology Blvd.
Suite 950
Austin, Texas 78727
Mailing Address Europe:
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park
Mallusk Drive,
Mallusk, Newtownabbey
Co. Antrim,
Northern Ireland
BT36 4GN

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
2. SAFETY INFORMATION
The U-Charge®RT power system must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s
specifications and guidelines for recommended use. When used properly and in accordance with
these instructions, the battery is a safe, reliable and convenient energy storage solution.
CAUTION: Misuse or abuse of the U-Charge®XP power system may result in
personal injury or fire.
.
•Keep all original packaging. International law dictates that the batteries are shipped under
UN 3090, Class 9 rules for hazardous goods/ dangerous materials.
•Burn Hazard.
•Abusive operation of the battery (e.g., overcharge, crush, puncture, excessive heat or
moisture) may produce smoke. In such an event, ventilate the area.
•Extinguish any flames with copious amounts of water, use a carbon dioxide, dry-powder
fire extinguisher, or cover with sand or mud (therefore removing excess oxygen from the
flame).
•DO NOT disassemble, crush, puncture, or incinerate.
•DO NOT short circuit external contacts.
•DO NOT expose to temperatures above 60ºC (140ºF).
•NEVER charge the battery without charge protection circuitry and equipment approved by
Valence Technology.
•Remove all jewelry or other metallic objects during the installation of the battery.
•Exercise care in handling any charged battery, particularly when placing it inside a
container with metal objects.
•DO NOT throw away the battery in the trash.
•Dispose of the battery properly in accordance with local regulations. Visit the
Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation’s website at www.rbrc.com for more
information.
•DO NOT use with other types of batteries connected in series or parallel with the
U-Charge®RT power systems.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
Your battery may contain symbols, defined as follows:
Symbol Definition
Important safety information will follow.
Your battery should not be disposed of in a fire.
Your battery may require recycling in accordance with local laws. Contact your
local regulatory authorities for more information. Do Not include battery with
lead acid battery recycling.
Your battery should not be thrown in the trash.
Shock Hazard - Labels may be located on or inside the equipment to alert
people that dangerous voltage may be present.
Burn Hazard - Labels may be located on or inside the equipment to alert
people that surface temperatures may be dangerous.
2.1 Internal Protection Features
The U-Charge®RT power system has several safety features built-in to help protect against
abusive conditions:
•Valence Phosphate technology provides lithium-ion advantages of high energy, light
weight, and long cycle life without the fear of thermal runaway under abuse conditions.
•Cell voltages and internal temperature monitored by each battery.
•LED status lights on the battery gives visual indication of battery condition.
•An optional Battery Discharge Indicator (U-BDI, part number 1002867) can be used for
remote wired visibility of the battery pack state of charge. Contact your dealer for
information on how to purchase a U-BDI.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
3. BEFORE YOU START
Please read all the safety information provided in this document prior to installing and/or
operating the battery.
The U-Charge®RT power system should be professionally installed and handled. Please contact
Valence Customer Support for free consultation if you have any questions about the handling,
operation and safe use of this battery before proceeding further.
CAUTION: Performing any of the following actions will immediately void your
warranty on the product and could lead to a potentially dangerous situation.
1. Breaking the lid and exposing the circuit boards and battery assemblies.
2. Puncturing or otherwise physically damaging the battery casing, circuit boards, battery
cells or any other part of the battery mechanism.
3. Operating the battery in an environment where the temperature is higher than 60°C
(140°F).
If you believe that in the course of using the U-Charge®power system, you will conflict with any
of the above listed conditions or any other safety precautions listed in this manual, please DO
NOT proceed any further and contact Valence Technology immediately for guidance and
information.
3.1 General information
Please inspect each battery carefully. Report any damage from shipping to Valence Technology,
Inc. immediately.
Verify in advance that the U-Charge®RT power system fits your specific requirements.
U-Charge®RT Series batteries are designed for 12, 24, 36 or 48 Volt systems. Do not use if
your system requires more than 4 batteries connected in series. The U-BDI is required for
systems that are 24-48V for proper inter-module balancing. The U-Charge®RT power system
can be charged by most lead acid chargers set for Gel/AGM setting.
12 Volt System 24 Volt System 36 Volt System 48 Volt System
Recommended
Charge
Voltage
14.6 Volts 29.2 Volts 43.8 Volts 58.4 Volts
Max allowed
Charge before
auto
disconnect
15.2 Volts 30.4 Volts 45.6 Volts 60.8 Volts

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
Float Charge 14.6 Volts 29.2 Volts 43.8 Volts 58.4 Volts
Table 1: Shows charge voltage ratings for packs connected in 1, 2, 3 or 4 in series.
Additionally, the U-Charge®RT power system is designed for discharge currents up to 30 Amps
continuously and 80 Amps peak, for up to 30 seconds. Drawing higher currents could cause
the batteries to disconnect themselves electrically from the load or may cause damage to the
battery pack.
When installing packs in a series, ensure that they are fully charged (or at least all the same state
of charge) prior to installation. This will enable the maximum capacity to be realized from your
pack.
4. CONTENTS/TOOLS REQUIRED
Included in this PackageModel
Module Mounting Hardware User’s guide
Wrench
required
U1-12RTL 1
1/4”-20 thread/
Terminal washer/
Spring washer
2
each
1 7/16 inch
UI-12RT 1
1/4”-20 thread/
Terminal washer/
Spring washe
2
each
1 7/16 inch
U24-12RT 1
M8*1.25-12 thread/
Terminal washer/
Spring washer
2
each
1 13mm
U27-12RT 1
M8*1.25-12 thread/
Terminal washer/
Spring washer
2
each
1 13mm
Table 2: Contents and tools required
5. INSTALLATION
IMPORTANT! Remove all jewelry or other metallic objects from your hands and body
during the installation of the battery packs and peripherals.
Turn off power to the vehicle/device prior to installation of the batteries. Remove all other
batteries from the system prior to replacing them with the U-Charge® RT batteries.
5.1 Tips
•Do not install the batteries above heat generating equipment.
•Ensure that all batteries are at same state of charge prior to connecting together.
Contact Valence Support for suggestions on how to perform this task.
•Use flexible insulated copper cables, (i.e. welding cable), or equivalent bus bar for serial

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
connection.
These batteries are maintenance free. Since they are sealed and have no free electrolyte, they
can be mounted in any orientation, although right side up is recommended.
Figure 1.
If they have to be mounted on their side to fit in the application, we recommend the terminals be
positioned towards the top of the battery.
Figure 2.
5.2 Installation of U-Charge®RT Battery into a 12 V System
1) Fasten battery in position via means supplied in the vehicle/device.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
2) Attach negative power cable to the negative terminal on the battery pack
3) Attach the positive power cable from vehicle/device to the positive terminal of the battery
pack.
Figure 3: Shows electrical connection of a single U-Charge®RT power system into a
vehicle/device.
If a U-BDI is used, connect it to the female communication connector or wire. If not, leave the
communication connector or wires disconnected.
5.3 Installation of up to 4 batteries in Series
The U-Charge®RT power systems can be connected in series. The U-BDI communicates with
the individual batteries in the system to enable battery to battery balancing and to gather system
state of charge.
1) Fasten all battery packs in position via means supplied in the vehicle/device.
2) Attach the negative power cable to the negative terminal on the first battery pack (this
pack will have the lowest potential @ 12V).
3) Attach a jumper cable between the positive wire in the first battery pack and the negative
terminal on the second battery pack (note: the jumper cable must be the same gauge wire
as the positive and negative terminal cables).
4) Add additional jumpers to complete the series string as depicted in Figure 4.
5) Attach the positive cable from the vehicle/device to the positive terminal of the highest
potential battery pack.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
Figure 4: Installation of U-Charge®RT power systems in Series.
A RS-485 bus is used as the communication method between a U-Charge®RT power system
and its U-BMS. Each battery contains one male and one female connector which are wired in
parallel to make it possible to daisy-chain communication cables. Figure 5 and Table 3 describe
the pin-out of the two 5-pin M12 connectors:
Mechanical Key
1
2
4
3
5
Figure 5. Female type M12 connector
Pin Signal
Name Pin Type Description
1 N/A N/A Shield
2 VCC (+5) Power Power supply for the RS-485 transceiver
3 GROUND Power Ground for the RS-485 transceiver
4 B(+) Signal B signal from the RS-485 transceiver
5 A (-) Signal A signal from the RS-485 transceiver
Table 3: Pin-out of the RS-485 communication ports in U-Charge®RT power system

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
6. CHARGING THE BATTERIES
6.1 Select a Proper Battery Charger
When choosing a charger, please use the following minimum guidelines for selection.
•The charger should deliver a DC current with as small a ripple current as possible.
•The charger should have a reliable and accurate voltage regulator.
•The current from the charger should be controlled in all situations.
6.2 Charging the Battery
For normal charging, use a battery charger that has an output of 20A or less until the Voltage
reaches Recommended Charge Voltage and then automatically tapers the current down to
maintain a constant Optimum Float Voltage (CC-CV-CV). Charging is considered complete when
the current is less than C/20 for the system. However, leaving the batteries on float (between
13.8V-14.6V per battery) will continue to balance the cells and will not harm the batteries in any
way. For normal charges, the battery temperature should be between 0 and 45°C (32 and
113°F). Internal resistance of the battery is higher at colder temperatures. Thus, the charge
acceptance of the battery will be less when the temperature is less than 0°C (32°F). This may
increase the charge time.
The value of the charger’s voltage limit is calculated by multiplying the number of batteries that
are connected in series by 14.6V.
For example:
4 modules of the U1-12RT (U24/U27) systems * 14.6V= 58.4V (see Figure 6 for example)
Typical charging curve of 4 U1s in series at C/2 rate at 23°C
44
46
48
50
52
54
56
58
60
0 102030405060708090100110120
Charge Time (m)
Voltage
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Charging Current (A)

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
Figure 6.
Example for charging 4 U-Charge®batteries:
•Charge to 58.4V = (14.6V x 4 batteries in series) and hold.
•When voltage reaches 58.4, the battery is approximately 90% charged.
•Allow the current to naturally decay when voltage is reached.
•When the current drops below 2A for U1, 5A for U24, and 6A for U27, the battery is
considered 100% charged.
•Continue to float charge at 58.4V.
•It will not hurt the battery if the voltage is continuously present, even after 100% SOC
is reached. This will aid in balancing.
If you have any questions, please call Valence Technology for the recommended charging profile
for your system.
If a U-BDI is attached, the 10 bar LEDs will light up according to the system’s state of charge.
Once any cell has reached 3.65V, the yellow LED will illuminate. This is normal and is just
telling the user that balancing has started to occur.
7. U-CHARGE®RT POWER SYSTEM FEATURES
The U-Charge®RT power system includes electronics that monitor conditions of the battery pack.
•Built-in electronic monitoring for state-of-charge, current, voltage and temperature
•Built-in and automatic over voltage, over temperature and over discharge protection
•Internal cell balancing
•LED battery status indicator
•Series connection up to 48V (nominal) maximum system voltage
•Rugged mechanical design – dust and water resistant to IP56 standards, flame retardant
plastics
•Handles on U24, and U27 models
•Hundreds of cycles, under normal conditions
•Maintenance-free
•Can be recharged using most standard lead-acid chargers (set for AGM/GEL cells) *verify
with Valence Customer Support before charging
•Communication of monitored data via optional RT Monitoring Kit (part number 1004236)
•State of charge displayed via U-BDI (part number 1002867)
7.1 Discharge Control
When the modules are discharged to the point where any single cell block reaches its minimum
value, 2.45V, the battery will interrupt discharge. The battery will appear to have 0V (or even

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
negative voltage) across the terminals. No current will flow. However, the battery will accept
charge.
When the battery has a GREEN LED status indication, it can be discharged in a normal manner.
If the LED is YELLOW, the battery is either nearing a thermal limit or the capacity is less than
20% SOC. If any battery has a RED LED status indication, it will stop discharging. A battery will
also stop discharging once it has exhausted capacity. In this case, it will return to normal
(GREEN LED) once the cell voltage increases over 2.7V during charge.
7.2 Charge Control
When the modules are charged to the point where any single cell block reaches its maximum
value, 3.9V, the battery will prohibit further charging by opening up an internal disconnect.
When the voltage of the cell returns to a value less than 3.7V, its internal disconnects will
automatically reset.
7.3 State Of Charge (SOC) Measurement
Individual cell voltage and charge/discharge current will be used to measure the state-of-charge
(SOC) of the battery. The estimated capacity used for the calculations will be adjusted to meet
the capacity of the lowest capacity cell bank when the pack is fully cycled. The state-of-charge
will be adjusted for normal
self-discharge of the battery when the unit is not on charge.
SOC Accuracy is greater than 90%.
NOTE: Lead acid state-of-charge meters should not be used with U-Charge®power
systems from Valence Technology. They will not be accurate.
7.4 Cell Balancing
Battery cell variability and environmental conditions can cause slight state-of-charge imbalances
between cells. This imbalance can cause reduced capacity of traditional battery systems. To
minimize potential capacity issues, the battery automatically performs adjustments to balance
the state-of charge in the cells during the top of charge.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
7.5 U-Charge®RT Battery Specifications
Specifications U1-12RTL U1-12RT U24-12RT U27-12RT
Voltage 12.8 V 12.8 V 12.8 V 12.8 V
Capacity (C/2) 24 Ah 40 Ah 100 Ah 130 Ah
Dimensions incl. terminals
(L x W x H)
197x130x182 mm
7.75x5.2x7.2 in
197x130x182
mm
7.75x5.2x7.2 in
260x173x225 mm
10.24x6.8x8.8 in
306x173x225
mm
12x6.8x8.8 in
BCI Group Number U1R U1R Group 24 Group 27
Weight (approximate) 4.1 kg / 9 lbs 6.1 kg / 13.4 lbs 15.8 kg / 34.8 lbs 19.5 kg / 43 lbs
Terminals, female-threaded 1/4-20 1/4-20 M8 x 1.25 M8 x 1.25
Specific energy 73 Wh/kg 84 Wh/kg 81 Wh/kg 85 Wh/kg
Energy density 66 Wh/l 110 Wh/l 126 Wh/l 140 Wh/l
Max. cont. current 30 A 30 A 30 A 30 A
Max 30-sec. pulse 80 A 80 A 80 A 80 A
Cut-off voltage
(approx)
10 V 10 V 10 V 10 V
Run-time @ 10A 144 min. 240 min. 600 min. 780 min.
Standard
Discharge
Run-time @ 30A 45 min. 80 min. 200 min. 260 min.
Charge voltage 14.6 V 14.6 V 14.6 V 14.6 V
Float 13.8 V 13.8 V 13.8 V 13.8 V
Max. cont. current 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A
Standard
Charge
Charge time at max I. 1.5 hrs 2.5 hrs 6.5 hrs 8.5 hrs
DC internal resistance 22 mΩ15 mΩ6 mΩ5 mΩ
Table 4: Battery Specifications
The battery can be in three modes; Active (charging, discharging, or communicating), Park
(sitting idle), or Shelf (manually put to sleep with RT Diagnostic Kit).
Please note the various discharge rates depending on which mode the battery resides.
Active Mode Park Mode Shelf Mode
< 4 Ah / week < 1.3Ah /week < 0.17 Ah / week
< 17 Ah / month < 5 Ah / month < 0.6 Ah / month
Table 5: Self Discharge Rates
If the batteries are not to be used within 1 month, we recommend that it be put into shelf mode or
be put on a float charger. If however, the battery has self discharged below 10V, refer to section
8 for instructions on how to recover from the deep discharged condition.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
Common Specifications U-Charge®RT Power Systems
Operating temperature -10˚C to 50˚C (14˚F to 122˚F)
Storage temperature -40˚C to 50˚C (-4˚F to 122˚F)
Operating humidity 5% to 95%, non-condensing
Water/dust resistance IP56
Shock and vibration IEC61960, DIN VG96 924
Certifications FCC Class B, CE,
UL1642 (cells)
Shipping classification UN 3090, Class 9
Table 6: U-Charge®RT Specifications
Life Cycle Performance
Charge Performance for U-Charge U1-12RT Power System
C/2, 23°C
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0 102030405060708090100110120
Charge Time (m)
% Capacity
11.0
11.5
12.0
12.5
13.0
13.5
14.0
14.5
15.0
Charge Voltage (V)
Discharge Performance for U-Charge U1-12RT Power System
23°C
10.0
10.5
11.0
11.5
12.0
12.5
13.0
13.5
14.0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Capacity (Ah)
Battery Voltage (V)
8A
30A
20A
5A5A
8A
Discharge Rate Performance for U-Charge RT Power Systems
C/5
10.0
10.5
11.0
11.5
12.0
12.5
13.0
13.5
14.0
0 102030405060708090100
% Capacity
Discharge Voltage (V)
45°C
23°C10°C0°C-10°C
Life Cycle Performance for U-Charge U1-12RT Power System
C/2 Charge, Discharge
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
110
120
0 100 200 300 400 500 600
Cycle #
% Capacity
23°C
45°C

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
Companion Devices for U-Charge®RT Power Systems
U-BDI – a wired, remote U-Charge®Battery Discharge Indicator (U-BDI) that displays a 10
segment State-of-Charge (SOC) LED indication bar and battery status indicators. The U-BDI
also monitors and controls battery-to-battery balance for multiple battery systems.
* Please refer to separate datasheets on the U-BDI product.
8. BATTERY STATUS INDICATION
8.1 GREEN LED: Normal Operation
A green blinking LED indicator on the lid of the battery is used to indicate the working status. It
will blink once every 20 seconds when in park and shelf mode, and once every 5 seconds when it
is awake and active.
The green LED will display a double flash if a U-BDI is attached and the batteries are being
charged or discharged.
8.2 YELLOW LED: Indication
If the LED indicator blinks YELLOW, one of the following is occurring:
•Cell temperature is greater than 60 °C.
•Cell voltage is below 2.6 volts. Reduce load on the battery. Charge battery.
•Cell voltage is greater than 3.65.
•Internal electronics’ temperature is > 77 °C (will correct itself when temp drops below 70°
C )

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
8.3 RED LED: Fault Indication
If the LED indicator blinks RED, one of the following has occurred:
•Cell voltage is < 2.45V even after 1 minute of charging.
•Internal electronics’ temperature is between 85 and 100 °C.
•If it’s red due to an over discharge or self discharge condition and the LED is blinking
slowly (on for 2 seconds, off for 3 seconds), see NOTICE below section 8.4.
8.4 No LED Indication: Severely Over Discharged
If the LED indictor is not blinking and the battery voltage is below 7V:
•Charge with 1A until the lowest cell voltage reaches 2.7V and the LED blinks green. At
this point, use a normal charger (<20A) to charge the battery normally. (see NOTICE
below)
•The individual cell voltages can be viewed with the RT Monitoring and Diagnostic Kit
(Valence part number 1004236).
NOTICE:
If the battery was charged at a higher current than 1A and the lowest cell bank do not reach 2.45V
within one minute, the battery will lock up and flash the slow red flashing state (Red LED on for 2
sec. then off for 3 sec.). Once in this state the battery must be allowed to sit open circuit for
approx. 12 hours or longer depending on battery type (U1 to U27) and the battery voltage. The
overall battery voltage must fall below 5.35V. This is the point when the LED will change from
slow flashing red to fast flashing yellow or no LED at all, before it can be charged with 1A again.
Contact Valence Technology, Inc. or the dealer where the U-Charge®RT power system was
purchased for further information.
9. TIPS FOR OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE
By following the tips listed below, you can assure long life and high performance of your
U-Charge®RT power system:
•Charge all batteries fully prior to first use of the vehicle/device.
•Allow battery to charge fully over night periodically.
•Use at temperatures below 40ºC.
•Charge battery fully and put into Shelf Mode prior to long storage periods.
•Recharge battery fully if it has been stored for more than three (3) months.
•Ensure that all batteries are secured into position to minimize damage from shock and
vibration.
•Periodically inspect electrical connections to ensure screws are tight and no corrosion is

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
present.
•Use recommended torque ratings for the bolts.
oU1- Torque provided hardware to 110 in-lbs maximum (12.4 Nm). Retorque on
occasion to 85 in-lbs (9.6 Nm)
oU24, and U27- Torque provided hardware to 160 in-lbs maximum (18 Nm).
Retorque on occasion to125 in-lbs (14.1 Nm).
•Proper thermal management will maximize life. This includes adequate air cooling.
10. MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
10.1 Visual Inspection
Please perform regular visual inspections of the battery chassis. If the battery chassis is found to
have dents, discoloration, or appears to be damaged in any way, DISCONTINUE USE
IMMEDIATELY. Please contact Valence Technology for assistance with evaluating the product for
continued usability.
10.2 Voltage Checking
The voltage of the battery can be monitored during normal operation or as part of standard tests
performed periodically to assess the health of the battery.
•If any single battery's voltage is under 10V at room temperature, the battery has been
over-discharged or is self-discharging due to some defect or parasitic load. Discontinue
use until the fault can be corrected and the battery can be recharged.
10.3 Battery Storage
When disconnected from other batteries and the U-BDI, the battery will automatically go into a
park mode. In this state, the battery needs to be recharged at the following interval:
U1-12RTL U1-12RT U24-12RT U27-12RT
Recharge after 2 months 4 months 6 months 6 months
Table 7: Recharge Guidelines
•However, if any battery is not going to be used within 6 months, we recommend that the
battery be put into shelf mode using the RT Diagnostic Kit. The shelf function instructs
the monitoring circuitry to shut down to maximize shelf life. In shelf mode, a 100% charged
battery could be stored safely for up to a year without the need for recharge, although
monthly voltage tests are recommended.

Performance may vary depending on, but not limited to cell usage and application.
If cell is used outside specifications, performance will diminish. All specifications
are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is believed,
but not guaranteed, to be current and accurate. Copyright © 2005-2008 Valence
Technology, Inc.
Revision Date October 2008
12303 Technology Blvd., Suite 950, Austin, TX 78727, USA
Phone (888) VALENCE or [phone], Fax [phone]
Unit 63 Mallusk Enterprise Park, Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, UK
Phone [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [email protected], Web site: www.valence.com
•If the batteries are to be stored for longer than a year, please connect the batteries to a
charger and perform a maintenance charge. The module must be told to exit shelf mode
before charging can occur.
•Test the open circuit voltage periodically and recharge if it is at or below 12V. Monthly
tests are recommended.
•Store in an open, well ventilated, dry, clean area, between -40°C and 45°C (-40°F and
113°F) for maximum life. Self discharge is accelerated at higher temperatures.
•Do not expose the battery to extremes of temperature over 60°C (140°F).
•Do not expose the battery directly to sources of heat.
•Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight or moisture and/or precipitation
•Handle each battery carefully to avoid sharp impacts or extreme pressure on the case.
10.4 Battery Serial Number
The Serial Number of the module contains a series of 12 numbers and letters.
Example: CX3B46604966
C X3 B 46 6 04966
Model Name Tracing Code
U1-12RTL A
U1-12RT B
U24-12RT D
U27-12RT F
11. TRANSPORTATION AND SHIPPING
When transporting or moving the battery within your installation, please follow the guidelines
below.
•Avoid heavy vibration during transportation.
•Avoid throwing, rolling and excessive stacking during loading and transportation.
Assembly
location
C=China
Revision
Tracing
Code
Week Yea
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Sequential
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