Wiring a Series and Parellel Switch for 12v/48v

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of a series/parallel switch for a battery system consisting of four 12-volt batteries, allowing operation at either 12 volts or 48 volts. Participants are seeking a wiring diagram and exploring the complexities involved in achieving this configuration.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, Jeremy, outlines the need for a switch that allows for both series and parallel configurations of the batteries.
  • Another participant suggests that achieving this would require seven switches that must operate simultaneously, indicating a complex wiring solution.
  • Jeremy acknowledges the complexity and expresses a desire for a more compact solution, noting the difficulty of using a single switch.
  • A later reply introduces the idea of a middle condition where the batteries would be disconnected for a brief period during switching to prevent short circuits, adding further complexity to the design.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the complexity of the task and the need for multiple switches, but there is no consensus on the best approach or design for the wiring.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in the proposed solutions, such as the number of switches required and the potential for short circuits during switching, but does not resolve these issues.

jeremyr
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OK.

I have 4 - 12 volt batteries.

In parallel is 48 volts and series is 12 volts.

I would like have a series/parallel switch for running in 12 volts or 48 volts.

Most important, I would like to have a diagram for just how to wire this up.

Jeremy
 
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Welcome to the Forum, but may I suggest you include polite "please" and "thanks" next time? Demanding posts don't get treated very well here.

I have attached a sketch of what you would need.

It would take 7 switches to achieve that. They would have to switch at the same time.

In series, the batteries would give 48 volts. In parallel they would give 12 volts.
 

Attachments

  • 4 BATTERIES.JPG
    4 BATTERIES.JPG
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vk6kro said:
Welcome to the Forum, but may I suggest you include polite "please" and "thanks" next time? Demanding posts don't get treated very well here.

I have attached a sketch of what you would need.

It would take 7 switches to achieve that. They would have to switch at the same time.

In series, the batteries would give 48 volts. In parallel they would give 12 volts.

I did not mean to sound demanding, being my first post and all. Thanks for your picture. It appears they are no convenient way to do this with one switch and also not take up much space.

THANKS

-J
 
Yes, it isn't an easy thing to do.

I would even like to include a middle condition where the batteries were not connected to anything for a brief period, but this would complicate the diagram even more.

This would be to avoid short circuiting any of the batteries while the switching was taking place.
 

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