This is a simple DIY charge controller schematic posted in response to a request by one of our readers on our facebook page. The main component of this auto battery charger circuit is a 555 timer which compares the voltage in the battery. It turns ON the charger if the battery voltage is below the variable preset voltage (12 volt chosen here) and turns OFF the charger if the voltage reaches 13.8 volt. The battery charging voltage of the charger can be varied by adjusting the variable resistor and maximum charging is limited by a 13.8V zener diode on the fifth terminal of 555 IC.

