What should I do if the charger and BMS are not compatible?

April 24, 2025

What should I do if the charger and BMS are not compatible?


 

If the battery charger is not compatible with the BMS for Li-ion/Sodium-ion/Li-FePO4 batteries, you can take the following steps to resolve the battery management issue:

 

1. Check the compatibility specification


- Verify Li-ion battery pack voltage and current ranges: Make sure the output voltage and current of the battery charger meet the input requirements of the battery circuit protection BMS.
- Communication Protocol: Verify that the charger and the BMS Board are using the same communication protocol (e.g. CANbus, analog signals). If not, a protocol converter may be required.

 

2. Using Li-ion Battery Management System On/Off Mechanisms


- Simple control method: If the Li-ion battery charger cannot be controlled via CAN or enable circuit, the charger can be controlled by interrupting the AC power to the charger via a relay.
- Safety precautions: Ensure that the maximum charging voltage of the charger is just higher than the maximum voltage of the lithium battery pack to prevent overcharging. 3.

 

3. Implementing Backup Control Methods


- Analog Backup: Even when using CANbus, it is recommended to use an analog backup to shut down the charger in case of a communication error.
- Bipolar Relay: **For split-connected chargers, use a bipolar relay to interrupt the two AC “hots”.

 

4. Adjusting Charger Settings


- Charging Algorithm: Choose a charging algorithm that is as close to constant current as possible, and whose termination voltage should be slightly higher than the maximum voltage of the Li-ion battery pack.
- CURRENT LIMITING: Use a 2-5V analog input for current limiting if supported by the charger.

 

5. Test and Monitor Settings


- Initial Test: After making any changes, test the setup thoroughly while closely monitoring the battery pack to make sure the charger shuts off properly at the correct time.
- Continuous Monitoring: Use diagnostic tools to monitor parameters such as voltage, current and temperature of the lithium battery pack, and pay attention to the working status of the BMS to detect problems at an early stage.

 

6. Consulting Documentation and Support


- User Manual: For detailed compatibility information, please refer to the user manuals of the charger and KLS BMS.
- Technical Support: Contact the manufacturer of the charger and KLS BMS for additional technical support and guidance on lithium battery management.

 

7. Consider firmware and software updates


- Firmware Updates: Check the charger or BMS Battery for firmware updates to improve BMS Board compatibility.
- Profile: Ensure that the Li-ion Batttery BMS profile is set up correctly and that the charger safety relay is enabled.

 

8. Use a different charger or BMS.


- Replacement Components: If compatibility issues persist, consider using a different charger or BMS that is known to work well together.

 

By following the steps below, you can identify and resolve compatibility issues between your charger and BMS to ensure safe and efficient charging of your battery.