THINKWARE BAB-50 External Power Supply User Guide

THINKWARE BAB-50 External Power Supply

Specifications

• Product Type: External Power Supply
• Purpose: Provide extended dash cam recording when the vehicle is parked
• Compatibility: Designed for use with dash cams
• Power Source: External battery
• Safety Compliance: FCC Part 15, Canadian ICES-003

Product Usage Instructions

• Safety Information:

  • Read and follow all safety instructions provided in the manual.

  • Perform periodic inspections for proper operation.

  • Stop using the product immediately if any unusual odors, smoke, swelling, or overheating is detected.

  • Store the product out of reach of children and pets.

  • Avoid exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, and physical impacts.

• Included Items:

  • External battery
  • Charging cable for cigarette lighter socket*1
  • Charging cable for fuse box*2
  • Output cables
  • Fuse holder (3 types)*2
  • Fuse (3 types)*2
  • Velcro tape
  • Quick start guide

• Part Names:

  • Output cable connector
  • Charging cable connector
  • Operation indicators
  • Power switch

• Operation Modes:

  • Refer to the manual for detailed information on operation modes depending on the power switch settings.

FAQs

• Q: What should I do if the product overheats?
  • A: Stop using the product immediately and contact customer service for assistance.
• Q: Can I use the product for purposes other than dash cam recording?
  • A: It is recommended to use the product only for its intended purpose to avoid damage or injury.

FCC

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Compliance Statement

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, under part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used by the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
• This appliance and its antenna must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
• A minimum separation distance of 20 cm must be maintained between the antenna and the person for this appliance to satisfy the RF exposure requirements.
• Caution: Any changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void your permission to operate the equipment.
• Note: This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices. Shielded cables must be used with the unit to ensure compliance.

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003

Safety Information

Read and follow the safety information to safely use this product. If the instructions are not followed, the product’s performance may degrade, or it may overheat, ignite, or explode and result in injury or property damage.

WARNING

• Periodically inspect the product for proper operation. Incorrect wiring or aged and damaged cables may cause a fire.
• Stop using the product immediately and contact the customer service center if you smell smoke or strange odors coming from the product or the cables connected to the product.
• Stop using the product immediately and replace the product or cables if you see the product or its cables swelling or overheating.
• Store and use this product out of the reach of children or pets.

CAUTION

• To avoid injury or damage to the product, follow these instructions when installing and using this product.
• Keep the product away from moisture and direct sunlight, and do not expose the product to physical impacts.
• Do not use this product for any purpose other than its intended use.
• Do not try to repair or modify the product. Unauthorized disassembly, repair, or modification of the product will void the product’s warranty.
• Do not apply excessive pressure to the product or puncture the product with sharp objects.
• Do not place the product inside a microwave oven, or expose it to high pressure.
• Use only approved cables provided by the manufacturer when installing the product.
• Ensure that the product’s contacts do not come into contact with conductive materials, such as metal.
• Do not use the product in an environment where the product’s internal circuit may be affected by static or electromagnetic waves.

Included items

Open the package and ensure that the following items are included.

1. The item is included only when you purchase a product with the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket.
2. The item is included only when you purchase a product with the charging cable for the fuse box.

Part names

Refer to the following figures for the location of connectors and indicators on the product.

Operation modes depending on the power switch settings

Caution – When setting the power switch

• Set the power switch to LOW (normal-speed charge) when you use the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket. The cigarette lighter socket may be damaged if the power switch is set to HIGH (high-speed charge).
• Set the power switch to HIGH (high-speed charge) when you use the charging cable for the fuse box. It will take more time to fully charge if the power switch is set to LOW (normal-speed charge).

Product Features

• With its 7 A high-speed charging, the external battery is capable of operating a dash cam for up to 15 hours on a 40-minute charge (based on a power consumption rate of 4 Wh).
• The charge pump and constant voltage/current circuits integrated into the product are capable of fully charging and maintaining the external battery in optimal conditions (maintains over 80% capacity after 1,500 cycles).
• The MCU-controlled battery management system in the external battery safely and precisely controls the charge current and voltage, and the voltage balance between the battery cells.
• The thermal protection feature stops charging when the battery temperature reaches or exceeds 176°F (80°C).
• The device automatically stops battery output when short circuits are detected between the output terminals (ACC) and the ground (GND). Charge the external battery to deactivate the protective feature if the protection mode persists.
• The device automatically stops battery output when the battery voltage drops below or reaches 11.5 V – 10.8 V.
• Supports parallel installation of two external batteries to expand battery capacity. (Refer to “Wiring diagram” for details.)

Caution – Before installing the external battery

• The product warranty does not cover vehicle damage or product malfunctions caused by the use of third-party cables, or by inappropriate installation conditions where the vehicle’s alternator fails to generate sufficient charging voltage or current.
• In some vehicles, the vehicle’s alternator may be overloaded and damaged by the increased current demand when you install two external batteries in parallel.

Installing the external battery

Connecting the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket
You can connect the product to the cigarette lighter socket using the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket.

1. With the product’s power switch in the OFF position, connect the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket and output cable to the product’s cable connectors.
2. Connect the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket to the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket.
   • Caution: Do not connect the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket when the continuous power (B+) is supplied to the cigarette lighter socket. The vehicle battery may be discharged.
3. Set the power switch to LOW.
   • Caution – When setting the power switch
   • Set the power switch to LOW (normal-speed charge) when you use the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket. Thecigarette lighter socket may be damaged if the power switch is set to HIGH (high-speed charge).

Connecting the charging cable for the fuse box
You can connect the product to the fuse box using the charging cable for the fuse box.

1. With the product’s power switch in the OFF position, connect the charging cable for the fuse box and output cable to the product’s cable connectors.
2. Open your vehicle’s fuse box, check the fuse standard, and select the correct fuse holder between the included fuse holders.
   • Note The fuse box location in the vehicle may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of your vehicle. For more information, refer to your vehicle’s manual.
3. In the fuse box, locate and remove the fuse for the accessory power supply.
   • The accessory power (ACC) contacts supply power only when the engine is turned on.
   • Install the continuous power supply cable to fuse contacts that are 15A or less.
4. Insert the input cable into the sleeve at the end of the fuse holder cable, and then secure it by squeezing it on the sleeve using appropriate tools, such as pliers.
5. Install the continuous power supply fuse removed from the fuse box, and a fuse supplied with the product into the fuse holder, and then install the fuse holder into the accessory power (ACC) contacts in the fuse box.
   • If the fuse from the fuse box does not fit in the fuse holder, use other fuses that are supplied with the product.
   • Check the fuse contacts in the fuse box with a tester, and ensure that the output contact is connected to the fuse holder’s input contact.
   • Caution
     • THINKWARE is not responsible for any problems and/or damages caused by unauthorized part modification, such as soldering fuses to cables, without using the fuse holders supplied with the product.
     • Ensure that the fuse holder is installed correctly for proper input and output connection. The fuse may blow if the input and output connection is incorrect. THINKWARE is not responsible for any problems and/or damages to the vehicle due to an incorrect connection.
6. Find a bolt fixed on the vehicle’s chassis, and connect the ground (GND) cable to the bolt.
   • Note: If the vehicle’s bolt is coated, remove the coating before connecting the ground (GND) cable. The power may not be supplied correctly due to the coating.
7. Set the power switch to HIGH.
   • Caution – Operation modes depending on the power switch settings
   • HIGH: High-speed charge mode (7 A), used when the battery is connected to the fuse box.
   • LOW: Normal-speed charge mode (5 A), used when the battery is connected to the cigarette lighter socket.

Connecting the dash cam

1. Connect the output cable to the dash cam’s continuous power cable.
   • Connect the B+ (yellow), GND (black), and ACC OUT (red) cables to the dash cam’s B+, GND, and ACC cables respectively.
2. Secure the product to the driver’s seat floor using the velcro tape provided with the product.
3. Turn on the power, and ensure that the indicators are turned on for 3 seconds.
4. Start the engine and check the indicators. Charging begins when the operation indicator flashes red for 10 seconds and remains solid.
   • Note For more information, refer to “Indications for operation status” in the “Product specifications” section.
5. Turn off the engine, and ensure that the dash cam switches to parking surveillance mode.
   • In the dash cam’s settings menu, disable the battery protection (low-voltage cutoff) feature by setting it to OFF, or set it to the lowest voltage available.

Wiring diagram

Refer to the following wiring diagrams to correctly connect the product.

When connecting the product using the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket

When connecting the product using the charging cable for the fuse box

When connecting two products in parallel using the charging cable for the fuse box

Caution When charging a battery that is overly discharged or left unused for a long time, the black box will power on after reaching a stable output voltage using the trickle charging function, which gradually charges the battery to protect the battery cells. (It may take up to 5 minutes to supply power.)

Product specifications

15.5 V/6.5 A-MAX

•    HIGH (high-speed charge mode): 12.0 V – 15.5 V/9.5 A-MAX

Output voltage/current| 11.5 V – 14.2 V/2 A MAX
Charging voltage/current| •    LOW (normal-speed charge mode): 14.2 V/5 A (when the charging cable for the cigarette lighter socket is connected)

•    HIGH (high-speed charge mode): 14.2 V/7 A (when the charging cable for the fuse box is connected)

Charging time| •    LOW (normal-speed charge mode): Approximately 1 hour (5 A)

•    HIGH (high-speed charge mode): Approximately 40 minutes (7 A)

Use time| Approximately 15 hours (based on a 4 Wh power consumption rate)
Cells| Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo4)
Product capacity| 12.8 V/4,500 mAh/57.6 Wh
Dimensions/weight| 165.4 (W) X 131.2 (L) X 36.8 (H) mm/Approximately 1.7 LB (0.75 Kg)
Operating temperature| •    Charging: 0 – 45 °C

•    Discharging: -10 – 60 °C

Indications for operation status

Powered on| Red and green indicators turn on simultaneously.
Pre- charging| The red indicator flashes.
Charging| The red indicator remains solid.
Fully charged| The green indicator remains solid.
Low input voltage| Red and green indicators flash simultaneously.
High internal temperature| Red and green indicators alternately flash.

Battery disposal instructions

• Do not discard batteries.
• Do not incinerate batteries. Heat may cause a battery explosion or a fire.
• Dispose of batteries according to local regulations.

Warranty

THINKWARE warrants to the original purchaser for the following period from your purchasing date against deficiencies in material and workmanship under normal use. Should this unit fail to operate satisfactorily within the warranty period, THINKWARE will at its discretion, replace or repair the product. We may use functionally equivalent, similar (if the model is discontinued or out of stock), reconditioned, refurbished, remanufactured, pre-owned, or new products or parts.

External battery unit and all Accessories in Box: 1 Year

If service is required
Should this unit fail to operate adequately, it is best to first check with the store where it was originally purchased. Should this fail to resolve the matter and if you believe your unit meets the criteria for warranty replacement or repair, please contact us at www.thinkware.com/Support.

What this warranty does not cover This limited warranty does not cover:

1. If the device was not purchased from THINKWARE or its authorized retailers.
2. Device malfunction due to normal wear and tear, misuse, lack of maintenance, accidents, modification, alteration, or repairs by an unauthorized person or entity.
3. Products that are operated in combination with ancillary or peripheral equipment not furnished or otherwise certified by THINKWARE for use with the product or any damage to the products or ancillary equipment as a result of such uses.
4. THINKWARE is not liable for any damages (properties, business, and/or indirect damages), loss or corruption of data for any reason, product damage, or personal injuries that occur due to accidents or natural disasters.

LIMITED WARRANTY AND DISCLAIMERS

THINKWARE warrants that the product will be free from defects in materials or workmanship under normal use for one (1) year starting from the original date of purchase. You may be required to provide proof of purchase as a condition of receiving warranty service. The obligations of THINKWARE and the right of the purchaser under this warranty is limited to repair or replacement at the option of THINKWARE’s authorized dealer. The purchaser must provide notice of any defect within (1) year from the date of purchase and the defective product must be returned to the store where it was originally purchased or THINKWARE authorized dealers, at your expense. Where permitted by local law, THINKWARE Products and any replacement products or parts may be either new or refurbished to be functionally equivalent to new in performance and reliability. Replacement products or parts will have functionality at least equal to that of the product or part being replaced. Replacement products and parts are warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for 90 days, or for the remainder of the warranty period for the THINKWARE Product which they are replacing or in which they are installed, whichever is longer. This Limited Warranty extends only to the original retail or wholesale Buyer. This Limited Warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or damage resulting from (a) accident, abuse, misuse, natural disaster, insufficient or excessive electrical supply, abnormal environmental conditions or other external causes; (b) repair, replacement, modification, unauthorized disassembly or service by anyone other than THINKWARE or THINKWARE authorized service provider; or (c) modification or conversion conducted at user’s discretion, carelessness, or negligence. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY OUTLINED IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, FOR YOUR THINKWARE PRODUCT. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE IMPOSED BY LAW ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE APPLICABLE WARRANTY PERIOD. THINKWARE DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES. This Limited Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and it is governed by the laws of the jurisdiction in which your THINKWARE Product was purchased. Some jurisdictions do not allow any limitation on how long a limited warranty will last or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages in which case, the exclusions or limitations stated in this Limited Warranty may not apply to you. You may also have other rights that vary by jurisdiction. To the extent allowed by local law, the remedies provided in this Limited Warranty are your sole and exclusive remedies. These terms and conditions supersede any prior agreements or representations, including statements made in sales literature or advice given in connection with your purchase. TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LOCAL LAW, AND EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY OUTLINED IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, IN NO EVENT SHALL THINKWARE OR ANY THINKWARE-AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDER BE LIABLE FOR (1) ANY DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE PRODUCT OR THE FAILURE OF THE PRODUCT TO PERFORM, (2) ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM LOSS DATA, OR (3) ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, CONTINGENT OR SPECIAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, (4) ANY OBLIGATIONS ARISING FROM TORT OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY, AND WHETHER OR NOT ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THINKWARE MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES. In the event of a product defect that requires support during the warranty period, please contact THINKWARE Customer Support (www.thinkware.com) for assistance.

References

• Select Country Shop - THINKWARE
• Select Country Shop - THINKWARE

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