GR6b – Generator regulator incl. OVP

From 1 January 2025, ILEC GmbH is the official manufacturer and distributor of the GR6b voltage regulator with integrated overvoltage protection (OVP). The unit was originally developed and produced by Schicke Elektronik until the end of 2024, and the licence rights were transferred to ILEC GmbH at the turn of the year 2025.

Product description and areas of application for the GR6b generator regulator

The GR6b is a compact AC bridge rectifier and voltage regulator with a charge control output for connecting an LED or LED indicator. It is specifically designed for operation with Rotax, Hirth and Solo engines using lead‑acid or LiFePO4 starter batteries. The regulator switches its control thyristors close to the mains voltage zero crossing, which helps to minimise voltage spikes in the on‑board electrical system. In addition, an overvoltage protection (OVP) circuit is integrated, which switches off the regulator when the battery voltage exceeds 15 V.

Technical data of the GR6b generator regulator

Feature	Specification	Unit
Dimensions (L × B × H)	115 × 50 × 63	mm
Weight	0,275	kg
Factory set charging voltage	14,2	V
Adjustable range approximately	ca. 13,7 – 14,8	V
Overvoltage cut‑off	15	V
Quiescent current consumption (without LED)	ca. 0,5	mA
Discharge current via the yellow OVP lead	ca. 0,1	mA
Minimum operating voltage	ca. 10	V
Output current for the charge control LED	20	mA
Maximum generator output power	ca. 250	W

Operating temperature limits: minimum –20 °C, maximum +70 °C.

Functional characteristics

When the master switch is turned on, the charge control lamp initially lights up and goes out as soon as the generator starts delivering current. The regulator controls the generator so that the set charging voltage corresponds to the voltage at the thin red lead; this should be checked against the actual battery voltage. If the battery voltage at the yellow lead exceeds 15 V, charging is interrupted and the LED lights up. When the voltage drops below approximately 14 V, charging resumes automatically. Two small potentiometers on the top of the housing allow the charging voltage and the overvoltage cut‑off threshold to be adjusted to the battery system used, if required. Turning them anticlockwise increases the charging voltage. The OVP potentiometer is marked in red and must only be adjusted after consulting the manufacturer.

Important safety information for lead and LiFePO4 batteries:

Before installation, check that the charging and overvoltage cut‑off voltages are compatible with the battery in use and that the battery is suitable for the maximum generator charging current. Inappropriate batteries may overheat or be damaged. In particular, when using LiFePO4 batteries, approval from the ultralight aircraft manufacturer must be obtained.

Installation of the GR6b charge controller in the aircraft

The regulator is mounted with two M5 screws, with the cooling fins positioned as vertically as possible to ensure optimal cooling. The installation location should be chosen so that the regulator is not additionally heated by nearby sources of heat. Generator, battery and charge control connections are made via a 6‑pin flat connector; the earth connection is via the heatsink.

Ensure there is a reliable conductive connection between the regulator housing and the negative terminal of the battery.