Forum Discussion

Katman1100's avatar
Katman1100
Explorer
Jun 14, 2016

IOTA vs progressive dynamics

I am looking for a smart charger and am wondering if there is any major preference between these 2 brands? I would be sure that I purchased the smart charge model of either brand.

I did notice in looking at the PD9245 that it draws 725watts vs the IOTA DLS-45IQ4 drawing 600 watts. They are both supposedly 45amps. The only time I could see this making much of a difference would be if running of my honda eu3000 and trying to run the AC at the same time as charging and that may not be possible anyways. I do like that the PD9245 has a remote available and I can choose which mode it is in.

Is there any other differences I should look at? I do realize that some people prefer other chargers that have to be monitored, I just want something I can plug in and use as needed and not mess with it.

This will be to charge 4-6volts currently that may expand to 6-6volts if needed in the future. There is also going to be around 800 watts of solar once I am finished with the project so I can't imagine the charger will actually be used much.

Thanks for any input.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jun 15, 2016
    IOTA or Progressive.. I am told the IOTA with IQ-4 Technology are basically identical in performance and operation to the Progressive Charge Wizard units with one.. Usually minor... Exception.

    With units that have the plug in wizard,, There is a button and a light.. By pressing the button you can MANUALLY force a different mode

    For units that have the wizard built in there is a plug in dongle.. Same button, Same light.

    Other than Warranty (Have never compared) that is, I am told, the major differnece.


    I lean toward Progressive Dynamics for two reasons.
    One I described above, I have used that button a few times

    And my Mother did a computer consult for the company once (Which means they are from my home state, and thus help me to enjoy my retirement since I'm retired state employee).
  • westend's avatar
    westend
    Explorer
    Jun 15, 2016
    The difference in wattage on the rating plate or spec sheet is the "rating" of the device's maximum draw. In-use consumption may not be interpreted accurately from the rating.

    I have an opinion on which brand to buy. Buy the Progressive Dynamics charger. I have one that operates perfectly and is 45 years old. I can't find a better recommendation for any charger.
  • Matt_Colie's avatar
    Matt_Colie
    Explorer II
    Jun 15, 2016
    Before the depression, I installed a number of both and in all sizes. I would have to rate the quality of both as equal. I find it easy to believe that the difference on rated power consumption could be the method of measurement. If the PD honestly consumed 125 watts more than the Iota, that 125 watts would have to go out as heat in the space that the converter occupies, and I have never seen it.

    I personally have both a 9145 w/charge wizard and a 9260 w/pendant. It is nice that I can tell what they think they are doing without messing with the power instruments.

    Matt
  • Gdetrailer's avatar
    Gdetrailer
    Explorer III
    Jun 14, 2016
    pianotuna wrote:
    Or you are in the mountains at 8000 feet. Loss of capacity is about 5% for ever 1000 feet.

    Gdetrailer wrote:
    If a 3000W Honda can't handle A/C AND a 60A charger at the same time, you HAVE a problem..


    Hmm..

    Often in the mountains it is cool enough to not need A/C..
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Jun 14, 2016
    Or you are in the mountains at 8000 feet. Loss of capacity is about 5% for ever 1000 feet.

    Gdetrailer wrote:
    If a 3000W Honda can't handle A/C AND a 60A charger at the same time, you HAVE a problem..
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Jun 14, 2016
    If you are running the air conditioner all day or night and want low power draw the 45 amp is fine, 30 amp would be fine.

    If you want a fast charge go to 70+ amps. Especially with six batteries. This also needs short fat wire to be effective. May prevent the air from starting on generator if the battery is low.

    Both are excellent. The data I have seen posted puts them about the same after four hours charging.

    The float on the PD is a bit lower than the IOTA. This only matters if you are plugged in for an extended period and the temperature is very hot or cold.
  • Katman1100's avatar
    Katman1100
    Explorer
    Jun 14, 2016
    OP here. Thanks for the help so far.

    I also thought about bumping up to the IOTA 55 for PD 60 AMP chargers. I have heard others say it doesn't seem to take that much longer with the small one vs bigger, but as was said I doubt I will ever say my charger is to big. On the other hand the solar can always top it off. I just want the generator to run as short of time as possible, and still get the job done.

    Looking at the chargers it only looks like a few dollars, like less than $20 between the smaller vs bigger ones. Again is there any preference in brand and for what reason? Thanks
  • Gdetrailer's avatar
    Gdetrailer
    Explorer III
    Jun 14, 2016
    MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
    It depends on shade, and cloudy days whether the panels will need assistance. I do not know the weather where you camp or how long you intend to boondock. Those are the two critical factors. For the life of me i have never heard anyone say "Man I could have saved XXXXX dollars and purchased a smaller converter". But on the other hand I have heard plenty of expletives and marital fireworks if a rig runs out of power. Choose wisely.


    :)

    Good rule of thumb.. When in doubt, UPGRADE! :B

    If a 3000W Honda can't handle A/C AND a 60A charger at the same time, you HAVE a problem..
  • MEXICOWANDERER's avatar
    MEXICOWANDERER
    Explorer
    Jun 14, 2016
    It depends on shade, and cloudy days whether the panels will need assistance. I do not know the weather where you camp or how long you intend to boondock. Those are the two critical factors. For the life of me i have never heard anyone say "Man I could have saved XXXXX dollars and purchased a smaller converter". But on the other hand I have heard plenty of expletives and marital fireworks if a rig runs out of power. Choose wisely.
  • Gdetrailer's avatar
    Gdetrailer
    Explorer III
    Jun 14, 2016
    Katman1100 wrote:
    I am looking for a smart charger and am wondering if there is any major preference between these 2 brands? I would be sure that I purchased the smart charge model of either brand.

    I did notice in looking at the PD9245 that it draws 725watts vs the IOTA DLS-45IQ4 drawing 600 watts. They are both supposedly 45amps. The only time I could see this making much of a difference would be if running of my honda eu3000 and trying to run the AC at the same time as charging and that may not be possible anyways. I do like that the PD9245 has a remote available and I can choose which mode it is in.

    Is there any other differences I should look at? I do realize that some people prefer other chargers that have to be monitored, I just want something I can plug in and use as needed and not mess with it.

    This will be to charge 4-6volts currently that may expand to 6-6volts if needed in the future. There is also going to be around 800 watts of solar once I am finished with the project so I can't imagine the charger will actually be used much.

    Thanks for any input.


    Since you are planning to add more battery, I would suggest bumping up to at least 60A.. I have a PD9160 with ext charge wizard pendant. The 60A capacity gives me plenty power and room for expanding battery capacity.

    45A with six 6V batts will take a lot longer to charge which may be something to consider if your plans are to boondock with gen and solar.

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,201 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 19, 2025