There's always questions! At Dextera we think that's a good thing. To save you some time though we collated the most frequently asked questions and answers. If you need to know something that isn't listed here then simply give us a call on 01675 465 191.

What is the Battery Brain?

The Battery Brain is an electronic battery disconnect unit. Its purpose in life is to constantly monitor battery voltage. Do you have other means of getting information on the Battery Brain, if I still have questions? www.smgy.net or 1-877-247-5993.

How does the Battery Brain work?

It sends out a pulse every two seconds to the battery that senses the voltage level. When it senses the level falling below what is needed to start the engine the patented microprocessor activates its single moving part (a solenoid) and isolates the battery from the electrical circuit to preserve the charge you will need to start the engine.

What types of vehicles does the Battery Brain work on?

Battery Brain works on virtually any vehicle using a battery, custom or classic. Cars, Trucks, Vans, SUVs and many more benefit from the protection of the Battery Brain.

How do you reconnect the battery to the electrical system?

Depending on what model you have there are several different ways to reconnect to the electrical system.

The Bronze (Type I) has a manual reconnect. All you do is lift the hood, unscrew the yellow cap and simply press the reconnect button. (All models have the manual reconnect)

The Silver (Type II) has a manual reconnect option but also has a remote control. Simply press the reconnect button on the remote control and it will automatically reconnect the battery to the electrical system.

The Gold (Type III) has the manual reconnect option and a remote control to reconnect and disconnect. Since you are able to disconnect the unit it can be used as an anti-theft device.

Once you leave your vehicle simply press the disconnect button and it can’t be hotwired or stolen.

TheGold Push Button(Type IV) has a manual reconnect option and a wired push button reconnect and disconnect option. The wired push button can be mounted anywhere you choose.

Because you can disconnect, the unit can also be used as an anti-theft device.

The Gold Utility (Type IV-RV) is specifically made to protect the house or coach batteries. Since it is not responsible for starting a vehicle the charge protected is at a threshold of 10.5V. It avoids discharge and recharge cycles that can significantly reduce battery life.

The Battery Brain Platinum has a manual and remote control reconnect and disconnect option. Because the unit can be disconnect is can be used as an anti-theft device. If disconnected the Platinum provides enough power to keep your presets but not enough to start the engine.

What are the different types of Battery Brain units?

Bronze (Type 1)

Automatic battery disconnect only
Manual reset button
Single black ground wire

Silver (Type 2)

Auto battery disconnect
Manual reset button
Single button remote control used for reconnect only
Black ground wire
White antenna wire

Gold (Type 3)

Auto battery disconnect
Manual reset button
Dual button remote control toggles between connected and disconnected.
Black ground wire
White antenna wire

Gold with Push Button (Type 4)

Auto battery disconnect
Manual reset button
Removable wired push button switch toggles between connected and disconnected.
Black ground wire
White antenna wire
Red / black remote switch wires

Gold Utility (Type 4 RV)
10.5 voltage disconnect threshold

Auto battery disconnect
Manual reset button
Wired push button switch toggles between connected and disconnected.
Black ground wire
Red / black remote switch wire

Platinum

Auto battery disconnect
Anti-Theft Mode disconnects battery if engine start attempt is detected
Includes vibration sensor to detect “engine-on” mode instead of direct wiring.
Manual reset button
4 button remote control:
ARMED
DISARMED
CONNECT
DISCONNECT
BUZZER TEST
Black ground wire
White antenna wire
Plug-in buzzer; red / black wires

Marine Type III

Case is Blue and Waterproof
Auto battery disconnect
Manual reset button
Dual button remote control toggles between connected and disconnected.
Black ground wire
White antenna wire

Marine Type IV

Case is blue and water proof
Auto battery disconnect
Manual reset button
Wired push button switch toggles between connected and disconnected.
Black ground wire
White antenna wire
Red / black remote switch wire

How do I install the Battery Brain?

Installing the Battery Brain is easy if your familiar and comfortable with your vehicle. If you are not familiar working on your vehicle you may want to contact a qualified technician. All you need is basic hand tools. All models come complete with a mounting hardware accessory kit and installation instructions. Visit www.SMGY.net for the latest version of instructions.

When does the Battery Brain disconnect my battery?

The Battery Brain will disconnect your battery automatically if it detects your battery voltage has fallen below 11.8V, continuously for 30 seconds. This will allow you enough charge to start your motor . Battery Brain is responsible for preventing the deep cycling of your battery which will prematurely end the battery’s life . Gold Utility’s threshold is 10.5 V.

Do I have to reset everything in my vehicle if the Battery Brain disconnects the battery?

No, all Battery Brain models have the ability to preserve memories and presets (ex- Clock and radio etc.) One of two methods is used and all models except Platinum can use the supplied red “accessory bypass” wire with built in fuse holder. Simply attach the “accessory bypass” wire from the Battery Brain unit to the appropriate fuse in the fuse box.

The Platinum models has a built in circuit allowing enough current to be drawn to maintain memories and presets without using the “accessory bypass” wire.

Will the Battery Brain model disconnect if my vehicle is running?

No, you must install the supplied “black engine on” wire for all models other than the Platinum, this will ensure that Battery Brain does not disconnect while the engine is running.

The Platinum model features a vibration sensor which you attach to a plastic unit component near the battery, i.e. (air cleaner is an ideal location.) This will ensure that the Battery Brain doesn’t disconnect while the engine is running.

What is the warranty?

We offer a 2 year limited warranty.

Does the Battery Brain impact the environment?

Yes it does in a positive way. By preventing premature death of a Battery. Battery Brain also reduces environmental impact by, reducing the number of disposed batteries in landfills.

What is the power of consumption of the Battery Brain?

Operating Temp is - 60F to 257F
Base: 1 5/8” (4cm), Height: 2 ½” (6cm).
Weight: 175gm, (total package weight 408 gm, 1Ib).
Normal operation current consumption for:
For Bronze- 0 Milliamps
For Platinum- 3.8 Milliamps

What tools are required?

Standard handheld tools.

Will it work on a multiple batteries?

Yes, provided the battery does not exceed 1100 Amps please see the website for the multi-battery configuration as shortly we will introducing specifications high amperage

Is Battery Brain available for vehicles with 6v and 24v electrical systems?

All Battery Brain Models are available in a 12V version and other select models of 6V and 24V versions

What would happen if you hit the disconnect button while driving?

Nothing. The Battery Brain “engine on” circuit disables the Battery Brain from functioning while it is in operation.

How do you know the Battery Brain is functioning properly?

Please refer to Owner’s manual for proper testing procedures.

How do you integrate the Battery Brain into aftermarket security system?

Aftermarket accessories such as vehicle security system can be connected directly to the input side of the Battery Brain, allowing them to operate regardless of the conditions of the battery.

Does Battery Brain have to mounted directly on the battery?

No, the Battery Brain installation kit provides chasis mounting hardware in the event the Battery Brain needs to be mounted I n a remote location. Such as on the firewall or in the trunk. (additional hardware maybe required.)

What are other application the Battery Brain can be used for?

The Battery Brain can be used on any application where protecting the battery is required.

How does it extend the life of the battery?

Every time a battery is completely discharged, it loses some of its reserve capacity to hold a charge. Since the Battery Brain discharges before disconnects your battery, it can extend the life of the battery.

On the platinum what happens if I forget to disarm the unit before starting the engine?

If the system is armed any attempt to start the vehicle will result in the Platinum unit immediately disconnecting the battery. The system must be disarmed before attempting to start the vehicle.

How does the vibration sensor work?

The vibration sensor can be used in place of the engine on wire to detect if the vehicle’s engine is running. Vibrations caused by normal vehicle operation are converted into a positive 12v signal which prevents the Battery Brain from operating.

Can I jump start my battery while the Battery Brain is installed?

Yes, prior to jumpstarting the vehicle turn the Battery Brain to the off position . Follow Vehicle manufactures instructions for jumpstarting the Battery Brain as normal.

What type of batteries does Battery Brain work with?

Battery Brain works all automotive batteries including lead- acid, spiral celled batteries, Gel-celled batteries, etc.

Before installing the Battery Brain is there anything I need to do?

The Battery Brain is designed to be installed on a new or near new condition battery. If you are unsure of the condition of your battery, please have it tested and replaced before installing the Battery Brain.