Samlex Battery Isolators & Voltage Sensitive Relays

Samlex Battery Isolators & Voltage Sensitive Relays

When it comes to intelligent dual-battery management solutions, Samlex has established a strong reputation for engineering reliable, microprocessor-controlled battery isolators and voltage sensitive relays that protect starter batteries while ensuring auxiliary battery banks receive proper charging. These compact, waterproof devices are designed for vehicles, marine applications, RVs, and off-road equipment where maintaining separate battery banks is critical for both performance and safety.

The Samlex ACR Series: Automatic Charge Separators

At the heart of Samlex's battery isolation technology is the ACR series, including the popular ACR-160 model. These units are microprocessor controlled with dual sensing capabilities and require no changes to existing alternator circuits, making installation straightforward even for complex electrical systems. The ACR-160 is rated for 160 amps continuous operation with 480-amp peak capacity, and it automatically detects whether it's working in a 12V or 24V system—eliminating the need for manual configuration.

The ACR-160 combines battery banks for charging and isolates them when charging has stopped, providing priority for charging the starter battery first while protecting it from excessive discharge. This intelligent prioritization ensures that you'll never be stranded with a dead starting battery, even if auxiliary loads have drained secondary banks. The bi-directional charging capability means that if you connect a battery charger or solar panel to the auxiliary battery, the starter battery will also receive charge once voltage thresholds are met.

Built for Harsh Environments

Samlex designs its battery isolation products with durability in mind. The units feature potted, waterproof, sealed construction with low standby current draw, making them ideal for marine environments where moisture and vibration are constant challenges. The compact form factor—typically around 4.2 x 2.9 x 2.3 inches—allows for flexible mounting in tight engine compartments or battery boxes. Over-voltage protection is built in, automatically shutting off the relay if voltage exceeds safe limits, protecting sensitive electronics throughout your electrical system.

Diode-Based Battery Isolators

In addition to voltage sensitive relays, Samlex manufactures diode battery isolators that allow simultaneous charging of two or more batteries from one alternator without connecting the batteries together. These isolators are commonly used in boats, recreation vehicles, and trucks where accessory batteries supplement the starter battery, and they feature extremely low voltage drop thanks to the use of Schottky diodes. This diode-based approach offers a passive, maintenance-free alternative to relay-based systems for applications where voltage drop is a critical concern.

Why Choose Samlex for Battery Management?

Samlex's approach to battery isolation technology emphasizes reliability, ease of installation, and intelligent automation. Their products eliminate the need for manual battery switches while providing superior protection compared to simple parallel battery connections. The microprocessor control ensures precise voltage sensing and timing, preventing premature engagement or disengagement that could compromise either battery bank. For anyone operating dual-battery systems in demanding environments—whether on the water, on the trail, or on the road—Samlex battery isolators and voltage sensitive relays deliver the automated intelligence needed to keep power flowing where it's needed most.