The Orion Smart DC-DC chargers can be used as a power supply or as a battery charger. In charger mode the three-state charge algorithm will increase battery life by properly charging the battery. Especially in the case of vehicles with a smart alternator, or voltage drop caused by long cable runs, controlled charging is indispensable. Controlled charging will also protect the alternator in lithium systems where direct charging can overload the alternator due to the low impedance of the lithium battery. In fixed output mode the output voltage will remain stable independent of the applied load or varying input voltage (within the specified range).

The Orion Smart DC-DC charger can be set up to only provide power when the engine is running. This is possible thanks to the built-in engine shutdown detection. This also prevents the onboard voltage of the vehicle from becoming too low. It is not necessary to intervene in the system of the vehicle, to install a separate motor run sensor or to intervene in the CAN-bus system. Apart from this detection, the Orion Smart DC-DC charger can also be activated by a forced allowed to charge feature, e.g. connected to the ignition switch.