Wakespeed 3m WS500 Battery/Alternator Temperature Sensor

Reliable Thermal Monitoring for WS500 Charge Optimisation

The Wakespeed 3m WS500 Battery/Alternator Temperature Sensor is a critical component for any advanced 12V, 24V or 48V electrical system utilising the Wakespeed WS500 Advanced Alternator Regulator. Designed to accurately monitor the temperature of either your battery bank or your alternator, this sensor ensures your charging system operates safely and at peak efficiency. By providing real-time thermal data directly to the regulator, it enables dynamic adjustments to charge profiles, protecting your valuable equipment from thermal damage while maximising energy storage.

Essential Protection for High-Output Alternators

Modern high-output alternators, particularly those paired with lithium battery banks, are subjected to immense stress. Lithium batteries are capable of accepting maximum charge current for extended periods, unlike traditional lead-acid batteries that taper their current draw as they reach a high state of charge. This continuous high-current demand generates significant heat within the alternator casing. By installing this alternator temperature sensor, the WS500 regulator can actively monitor the casing temperature and automatically derate the alternator’s current output if it approaches unsafe thermal limits. This vital feature significantly reduces the risk of catastrophic alternator failure and extends the operational lifespan of your charging hardware.

Precision Battery Temperature Compensation

Accurate battery temperature monitoring is equally critical for optimal charge control, particularly for lead-acid and non-CAN enabled LiFePO4 battery technologies. When used as a battery temperature sensor, it allows the WS500 to dynamically adjust the absorption charge voltage. For lead-acid chemistries, the regulator will lower the voltage as the ambient temperature increases, preventing overcharging and extending battery life. Furthermore, if the battery temperature exceeds or falls below pre-configured safety thresholds, the regulator will safely reduce or completely halt the charging current.

For non-CAN lithium systems, the sensor acts as a vital safeguard, entirely stopping the charge process during extreme temperature events, such as freezing conditions, where charging could cause irreversible damage to the internal cells.

Redundancy for CAN-Bus Enabled Lithium Systems

While advanced CAN-enabled LiFePO4 batteries rely on their internal Battery Management System (BMS) to broadcast charge parameters and temperature warnings directly to the WS500, incorporating an external temperature sensor is highly recommended as a fail-safe measure. In the unlikely event of a CAN communication failure or BMS malfunction, the Wakespeed 3m WS500 Battery/Alternator Temperature Sensor allows the WS500 to fall back on accurate local temperature readings, ensuring the charging process continues safely without risking damage to the battery bank.

Robust Construction for Harsh Environments

Engineered for durability in challenging marine and automotive environments, the sensor features a high-quality, fully insulated cable. The versatile 3-metre cable provides ample reach for typical engine bays and power compartments.

One end of the harness is terminated with an 8mm eyelet ring terminal. Because there is no electrical connection between the internal thermistor and the metal lug, the terminal can be safely secured directly to positive or negative battery posts, or bolted straight onto the alternator casing. The opposite end is fitted with a weatherproof Superseal 1.5 connector, complete with a protective blue boot, ensuring a secure, moisture-resistant connection to the WS500 wiring harness.

Key Features

• Provides real-time thermal data to the Wakespeed WS500 Advanced Alternator Regulator
• Prevents alternator overheating by enabling dynamic current output derating
• Allows voltage compensation for lead-acid batteries to prevent overcharging
• Stops charging in extreme temperatures to protect non-CAN lithium batteries
• Acts as a critical backup sensor for CAN-enabled LiFePO4 systems
• Features an isolated 8mm ring terminal for safe mounting on live posts or ground points
• Equipped with a sealed, weatherproof connector for robust marine and RV installations

Protect your high-value power generation and storage components with precise thermal management. Upgrade your system with the Wakespeed 3m WS500 Battery/Alternator Temperature Sensor today and ensure your WS500 regulator has the critical data it needs to perform flawlessly.