Hardkorr 12V DC Power Distribution Box (Large)
$149.00
Easily distribute power from your deep cycle battery.
This plug-and-play 12V DC Power Distribution Box allows you to easily distribute 12V power from your auxiliary battery. Using its wide range of ports, you can run or charge up to 13 appliances simultaneously. It is suitable for all deep-cycle battery types including AGM, Lithium, Wet, Gel and Calcium.
Constructed of durable ABS plastic and meeting the UL 94V-0 standard for flammability of plastic products, this power box is a high-quality unit that will last for many years.
It contains four 50A Anderson-style outlets. One of these is used to connect the power box to the battery, and the other three can be used as outputs or inputs, meaning you can use them to either power appliances with Anderson plug such as fridges, or to connect a DC-DC charger or solar panel to charge the connected battery. All of the Anderson outlets are recessed into the body to minimise the possibility of damage from knocks. It also contains two USB ports, two QC3.0 USB ports, two USB Type-C ports, two cigarette ports and two DC barrel ports, as well as an inbuilt voltmeter.
Mounting bracket included.
Mounting the power box inside your 4×4 or camper trailer is easy thanks to the included slide-on mounting bracket.
Connect the box to your auxiliary battery by running a cable from the battery terminals to one of the Anderson ports on the underside of the box.
If you want to remove the auxiliary battery from your vehicle (e.g. to use it at camp), you can easily slide the control box off the mounting bracket so you can take it with the battery.
Key features
- Constructed from UL 94V-0 compliant fire-resistant ABS plastic
- Multiple port types allows you to connect up to 13 appliances at once
- Easily plug a solar panel into the control box to charge the connected battery
- All ports are recessed into the body to reduce likelihood of damage
- Easily see battery status with large digital display
The Hardkorr guarantee
All Hardkorr products are manufactured using the highest quality materials. We are confident that they are the most durable in the market and will give you many years of reliable service. We stand behind this product with a comprehensive 3-year Australian warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.
Specifications
| Materials | ABS plastic (UL 94V-0 compliant) |
|---|---|
| Box dimensions | 90mm (W) x 250mm (H) x 63mm (D) |
| Suitable battery types | Any deep cycle (Lithium, AGM, Calcium, Wet, Gel) |
| Connection method | via Anderson plug (to battery terminals) |
| Ports | 4 x 50A Anderson plug inputs/outputs 2 x 10A cig sockets 2 x 5A DC (barrel) 2 x 2.4A USB-A 2 x 18W QC3.0 USB 2 x 45W USB-C |
| Ingress Protection | IP64 dustproof & waterproof |
| Operating temperature | -10°C to 50°C |
| Weight | 0.9kg |
Pack Contents
Know before you buy
Before you buy a battery set-up
A second battery runs your fridge, lights and charging without touching the starting battery. Modern vehicles and lithium batteries change how that system should be built.
- Smart alternators
Many late-model vehicles have smart alternators that vary their voltage. A simple isolator doesn't charge a second battery well from these, so a DC-DC charger is recommended (Redarc).
- Where lithium can go
Lithium batteries must not go in the engine bay: the heat is too much (Redarc, Enerdrive). They go in the cabin, tub or canopy.
- Charge it correctly
Lithium needs a charger with a lithium profile, and most can't be charged below 0 C unless the battery is heated. Don't mix battery brands or sizes in one system (Redarc).
- Sizing solar
Work out how many watt-hours you use a day and divide by 5 to 6 sun hours to size your panels. A panel laid flat can lose up to 38% of its output (Enerdrive).
Common questions
Do I need a DC-DC charger?
If your vehicle has a smart alternator, yes: isolators charge poorly from them. A DC-DC charger also gives the second battery the right charging profile, including for lithium (Redarc).
Can a lithium battery go under the bonnet?
No. Battery makers say lithium batteries can't handle engine bay heat and must not be installed there (Redarc, Enerdrive).
Lithium or AGM?
Lithium needs a charger with a lithium profile, a location out of the engine bay and, below 0 C, a heated battery to charge. Compare usable capacity and weight on each battery's specifications, and follow its maker's mounting guidance.
How much solar do I need for a fridge?
Add up your daily use in watt-hours, then divide by 5 to 6 sun hours (Redarc). Allow extra if the panel will lie flat or sit in shade.
Can I run my fridge off the starting battery?
You can, but you risk a flat battery and no start. A second battery with a DC-DC charger keeps the starting battery for the engine.