Solar PWM & MPPT Controllers - How I Done It -

Dellmassive

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Solar PWM & MPPT controllers - How I Done It -

There is a lot of talk about Solar at the moment, and with spring not to far away i wanted to go over the whole Solar controller thing.

The main components are the Panels themselves, the charge controller (whether that be stand alone or integrated into a DC-DC charger) and of course Battery's.

In this thread we will show the main Solar controllers and they can and cant do . . .


Power, energy and capacity
Power in watts (W) = current in amps (A) x voltage in volts (V)
Energy in watt hours (Wh) = power in watts (W) x time in hours (h)
Battery capacity in amp hours (Ah) = energy in watt hours (Wh) / voltage in volts (V)

whos got what? - What Solar Panel/controller Dc-dc Leisure Battery - Have You Got ?

Mobile Solar - Mobile Solar Panels ? . . . - How I Did It -



MPPT & PWM controller listed here >

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Kit List And Stuff -- How I Done It & What I Use --

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More Info & Links:

How to Calculate Solar Panel Efficiency :: Articles :: 12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine

Info for solar panels for caravans

Thinking About A Solar Panel? Look At This.....

My Roof Might Be Crap But The Solar Panel Is Ace

Solar Panel Fitting To Front Hinged Roof

How've You Installed Your Solar Panel?

Volkswagen VW T4 or T5 Camping vans/bus install flexible solar panels guide. How many ways to install the flexible solar panels on the camper’s or caravan’s roof? | Lensun Solar Panel – Lensunsolar

Lensun Solar Energy Store

12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine

Renogy Official Site | All-in-one Solar Kit | Portable Solar Generator

ACOPower Official Site | Solar Panel Kits | Portable Solar Generator | Solar Charge Controller | Solar Inverters - ACOPower.com

Flexible Solar Panels & Solar Panels for Caravans & Motorhomes

What Solar Panel & Controller ?

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What are they?

Solar controllers sit between your solar panels and your battery and kit. they Chanel the power generated by the solar panel and allow it to be used by means of charging a battery or powering your loads.

What they do:

The PWM controller is in essence a switch that connects a solar array to a battery. The result is that the voltage of the array will be pulled down to near that of the battery. . . . yep its that simple, the PWM just switches the panel voltage directly to the battery, albeit very fast. There is next to no regulation appart from possible battery over-voltage.

The MPPT controller is more sophisticated (and more expensive): it will adjust its input voltage to harvest the maximum power from the solar array and then transform this power to supply the varying voltage requirement, of the battery plus load. It essentially decouples the array and battery voltages so that there can be, for example, a 12 volt battery on one side of the MPPT charge controller and a large number of cells wired in series to produce 36 volts or more on the other. They have internal Boost/Buck converters (just like DC-DC or B2B chargers) that can boost up a low voltage, and reduce a higher voltage - this power can then be sent to the internal battery charger to keep the connected battery fully charged.

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The resultant twin strengths of an MPPT controller

a) Maximum Power Point Tracking
The MPPT controller will harvest more power from the solar array. The performance advantage is substantial (10% to 40%) when the solar cell temperature is low (below 45°C).

At high temperature or low irradiance the output voltage of the array will drop dramatically. More cells must then be connected in series to make sure that the output voltage of the array exceeds battery voltage by a comfortable margin.

b) Lower cabling cost and/or lower cabling losses
Ohm’s law tells us that losses due to cable resistance, so by using larger panels and higher voltages, . . . smaller gauge cables can be used.

MPPT_CSeries600.jpg

Conclusion

PWM:


The PWM charge controller is a good low cost solution for small systems only, when solar cell temperature is moderate to high (between 45°C and 75°C).

MPPT:

To fully exploit the potential of the MPPT controller, the array voltage should be substantially higher than the battery voltage. The MPPT controller is the solution of choice for higher power systems (because of the lowest overall system cost due to smaller cable cross sectional areas). The MPPT controller will also harvest substantially more power when the solar cell temperature is low (below 45°C), or very high (above 75°C), or when irradiance is very low

sol10uc3.jpg

What else?

well now you can have some nice extra touches like, . . .

Bluetooth solar & battery monitoring,
Load outputs - that will disconnect your loads to protect a low battery,
Charge profile for all battery types included Lithium,
LTD (Low Temp Disconnect) - to disable low temp Lifepo4 charging below 0degc



images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT19jwjenNNfiJIOYtjMdZ6Hz76xt8bjmxn27cfWFitCgtAO9w4Cg&s.jpgSolar-Charge-Controller.jpg


But what about my DC-DC / B2B charger . . . . . that has a Solar controller too right? - Yes many new versions of DC-DC chargers are integrating a PMW or MPPT solar controller into them, some of them will even have two outputs that can trickle charge the starter battery while still powering your main battery bank.


The differences in PWM and MPPT operation:


PWM:

A PWM (pulse width modulation) controller can be thought of as an (electronic) switch between the solar panels and the battery:

  • The switch is ON when the charger mode is in bulk charge mode
  • The switch is “flicked” ON and OFF as needed (pulse width modulated) to hold the battery voltage at the absorption voltage
  • The switch is OFF at the end of absorption while the battery voltage drops to the float voltage
  • The switch is once again “flicked” ON and OFF as needed (pulse width modulated) to hold the battery voltage at the float voltage
Note that when the switch is OFF the panel voltage will be at the open circuit voltage (Voc) and when the switch is ON the panel voltage will be at the battery voltage + voltage drops between the panel and the controller.

The best panel match for a PWM controller:
The best panel match for a PWM controller is a panel with a voltage that is just sufficiently above that required for charging the battery and taking temperature into account, typically, a panel with a Vmp (maximum power voltage) of around 18V to charge a 12V battery. These are frequently referred to as a 12V panel even though they have a Vmp of around 18V.


MPPT:
The MPPT controller could be considered to be a “smart DC-DC converter”, i.e. it drops the panel voltage (hence “house panels” could be used) down to the voltage required to charge the battery. The current is increased in the same ratio as the voltage is dropped (ignoring heating losses in the electronics), just like a conventional step-down DC-DC converter.

The “smart” element in the DC-DC converter is the monitoring of the maximum power point of the panel which will vary during the day with the sun strength and angle, panel temperature, shading and panel(s) health. The “smarts” then adjusts the input voltage of the DC-DC converter – in “engineering speak” it provides a matched load to the panel.

The best panel match for an MPPT controller:

To match a panel to an MPPT controller it is advisable to check the following:
  1. The panel open circuit voltage (Voc) must be under the permitted voltage.
  2. The Voc must be above the “start voltage” for the controller to “kick-in”
  3. The maximum panel short circuit current (Isc) must be within the range specified
  4. The maximum array wattage - some controllers allow this to be “over-sized”, e.g the Redarc Manager 30 is permitted to have up to 520W attached



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Choosing the right solar controller/regulator
The PWM is a good low-cost option:


• for smaller systems
• where the efficiency of the system is not critical, e.g trickle charging.
• for solar panels with a maximum power voltage (Vmp) of up to 18V for charging a 12V battery (36V for 24V battery, etc).

The MPPT controller is best:

• For larger systems where the additional 20%* or more energy harvesting is worthwhile
• When the solar array voltage is substantially higher than the battery voltage e.g. using house panels, for charging 12V batteries

* An MPPT controller will yield higher returns compared with a PWM controller as the panel voltage increases. I.e. a 160W eArche panel using 36 conventional monocrystalline cells with a maximum power amps of 8.4A will provide around 8.6A at 12V; while the 180W panel having 4 more cells will provide the same amperage but 4 additional cells increases the panel voltage by 2V. A PWM controller will not harvest any additional energy, but an MPPT controller will harvest an additional 11.1% (4 / 36) from the 180W panel.

For the same principle, all panels using SunPower cells with more than 32 cells require an MPPT charge controller otherwise a PWM controller will harvest the same energy from 36, 40, 44 cell panels as it does from a 32 cell panel.




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here is a quick look at a few solar controller :



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resorce & Data: Which solar charge controller: PWM or MPPT? | Victron Energy
 
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Lets look at the main contenders:

FYI no matter where you look it seems the Victron Brand is right at the top when it comes to solar controllers.



Victron (plus others) Basic PWM controller:

BlueSolar PWM (12 / 24 / 48 Volt) - Victron Energy

BlueSolar PWM
BlueSolar PWM-Pro
The BlueSolar PWM-Pro series is ready for use with its default settings. It also is fully programmable.
• Lighting control function, fully programmable.
• Three stage battery charging (bulk, absorption, float), fully programmable.
• Integrated battery monitor function (Remote Panel needed to display state of charge).
• Load output with low voltage disconnect and manual control (default setting).
• Optional external temperature sensor.
• Load output protected against over load and short circuit.
• Protected against reverse polarity connection of the solar panels and/or battery.
• Day/night timing options: see manual Remote Panel for details.

BlueSolar PWM-Light
• Load output with low battery voltage disconnect function.
• Lighting control function, one timer only.
• Two digit seven segment display for quick and easy setting of the load output functionality, including timer setting.
• Three stage battery charging (bulk, absorption, float), not programmable.
• Load output protected against over load and short circuit.
• Protected against reverse polarity connection of the solar array and/or battery.
• Day/night timing options: see manual for details

Models:12/24/48 Volt



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Victron :
SmartSolar MPPT 75/10, 75/15, 100/15 & 100/20

SmartSolar MPPT 75/10, 75/15, 100/15 & 100/20 - Victron Energy

Solar charge controller
upload_2020-1-27_21-10-36.png

A solar charger gathers energy from your solar panels, and stores it in your batteries. Using the latest, fastest technology, SmartSolar maximises this energy-harvest, driving it intelligently to achieve full charge in the shortest possible time. SmartSolar maintains battery health, extending its life.

Models:12/24 Volt
MPPT: Ultra Fast Maximum Power Point Tracking
By constantly monitoring the voltage and current output of your solar (PV) panels, MPPT technology ensures that every drop of available power is rinsed out of your panels, and harvested for storage. The advantage of this is most noticeable when the sky is partially clouded, and light intensity is constantly changing.


Remote Monitoring and Control
Remotely control and monitor the extensive features of your SmartSolar MPPT charger with built-in bluetooth by pairing it with your smartphone or other device via VictronConnect. If your installation is connected to the internet Victron Remote Management Portal (VRM) provides access to the full power of your MPPT, anytime, anywhere; both services are free to use. For remote installations - even when there is no internet connection or phone signal nearby - you may be able to monitor your MPPT by bluetooth-pairing with a LoRaWAN (long-range wide area network) device, available optionally.


Load output
The intelligent Load output function prevents damage caused by running batteries 'flat'. You can configure the voltage at which SmartSolar disconnects a load - thereby preventing excessive drain on your batteries. And here's the clever bit: SmartSolar will attempt a 100% recharge every day. If it can't - during periods of poor weather - it raises the disconnect voltage, daily, until it achieves success. We call this feature BatteryLife because it maintains the health, and extends the life of your battery.

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HIGH EFFICIENCY 10A MPPT SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER FOR SOLAR PANELS UP TO 130W (12V) / 260W (24V) UP TO 100V

(Rebranded EP-EVER)

12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine
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MPPT Technology:

This solar charge controller uses the most advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to track the maximum power voltage point of solar panels as it varies depending on sunlight exposure and temperature. This technology ensures the maximum efficiency of your solar system and significantly outperforms standard PWM solar controllers. Another benefit of MPPT technology is the wide solar input voltage range - this controller can work not only with standard off-grid 12/24V solar panels, but also with multiple panels with voltage up to 100V. The maximum combined input solar power allowed for this controller is 130W for a 12V battery system or 260W for a 24V system. In particular, this controller will significantly increase efficiency of a solar system where the solar panel voltage is much higher than the battery voltage (e.g. charging a 12V battery with a 36V solar panel).

Full system protection:

This charge controller features a comprehensive set of electronic protection functions to ensure the maximum possible efficiency of your solar system. These include: reverse current prevention at night (from the battery back to the solar panel), automatic cut off to prevent over-charging and deep discharge, solar panel over voltage, over load, short circuit and reverse polarity protection. The controller also has self-diagnostic capability and highlights any system errors using advanced fault-targeting technology.

Lithium Battery charging:

This solar charge controller is compatible with lithium batteries when a lithium battery charging program is selected using PC software (see below for more details).

Advanced system monitoring:

  • The controller automatically recognises 12/24V battery systems (note a battery should always be connected to the controller first before connecting a solar panel)
  • Built-in LCD screen shows real-time charging parameters such as voltage, current (separately for solar panel / load), battery state of charge, accumulated charge and discharge energy
  • Easy to use buttons allow the user to manually select the battery type (sealed, flooded or gel) and program load settings (e.g. set timers for lighting, fans, pumps etc).
  • Current limiting function (10A) allows the possibility of adding more solar panels to your solar system in the future
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Votronic - VOTRONIC - Standard Version MPP


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Renogy - New Edition Voyager 10A PWM Waterproof Solar Charge Controller

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DESCRIPTION
Featuring a bright blue back-lit LCD displaying system information including error codes, the Voyager 10 amp charge controller is engineered to be of world-class quality. Not only is it waterproof, but it is also equipped with advanced PWM technology suitable for 12V and 24V off-grid applications, and compatible with 4 different battery types, including Lithium! Ensure your system's longevity and stay worry-free as the Voyager also has you covered with multiple solar panel, battery, and controller protections. It's the perfect solar panel accessory.

If you have any questions regarding this product, please call us at 1 (909) 287-7111 or email sales@renogy.com.

KEY FEATURES
  • 12V / 24V Battery Compatibility with Auto Recognition.
  • Smart 4 Stage PWM charging: Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalization.
  • 4 Battery Type Compatible – Sealed/AGM, Gel, Flooded, and Lithium batteries, with Lithium Awakening feature.
  • Watertight design with Backlit LCD display for system information including error codes.
  • Multiple Protections for Battery, Controller, and Solar Panels including reverse polarity and more.

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Renogy - Rover Li 30 Amp MPPT Solar Charge Controller

upload_2020-1-27_21-17-32.png

DESCRIPTION
Meet the newest addition to the Renogy Rover Series, the 30A Rover-Li MPPT Charge Controller. The Rover-Li is not only capable of self-diagnosing errors, but it can also automatically detect 12V/24V systems. Pair this MPPT charge controller with the battery of your choice, from sealed to lithium. This 30A charge controller is encapsulated with a sturdy case that protects against general wear and tear. It also includes an aluminum heat sink for heat dissipation. Compatible with the Renogy BT-1 Bluetooth Module, users can connect to and monitor their solar power systems in real time, straight from their phones.

If you have any questions regarding this product, please call us at 1 (909) 287-7111 or email sales@renogy.com.

KEY FEATURES
  • Compatible with 12V and 24V systems.
  • Compatible with various Deep Cycle battery options: Sealed, Gel, Flooded, and Lithium.
  • The Rover is a negative ground controller, which ensures compatibility with any negative ground system.
  • Any negative connection on the solar module, battery, and load can be safely earth-grounded as required.
  • Featuring innovative MPPT (maximum power point tracking) technology with high tracking efficiency up to 99%, maximizing the energy from solar panels to charge your system.
  • 4-stage charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization) and temperature compensation increase your battery life and improve your system's performance.
  • Intelligent protection built-in against reverse polarity, overcharging, over-discharging, overload, short-circuiting, and reverse current.
  • LCD screen and multiple LED indicators for displaying system operation information, customizable parameters, and error codes.
  • RS232 port to communicate with BT-1 Bluetooth module.





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This Votronic DUO is interesting . . . .

Its a MTTP Solar controller that will also trickle charge your starter battery =] Nice

reverse charge the starter battery @1A,
run lithium,
and have LTD !

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The Voltronic DUO - https://amzn.to/2Gvj3xH

upload_2020-1-26_19-16-51-png.59193


"The MPP-series controllers feature a second output so that some of the solar power can be used to trickle-charge a starter battery with a current of 1A max."


  • Nominal operating voltage: 12V DC
  • Solar module max. output: 250W
  • Solar module max. current: 15A
  • Solar module max. open circuit (OC) voltage: 50V DC
  • Max. charging current: 17.5A (aux) / 1A (starter)
  • Compatible battery types: Lead-acid (flooded, sealed), Gel, AGM, LiFePO4
  • Stand-by current consumption: 0.004 A
  • Over-charge protection: Yes
  • Reverse current protection (back drain at night): Yes
  • On-board mains suppression filter: Yes
  • Number of charging ports: 2
  • Protection against over-load, over-temperature, short-circuit: Yes
  • Connection for temperature sensor: Yes
  • Compensation for voltage loss on charging cables: Yes
  • Connection for remote display panel: Yes
  • Operating temperature range: -20 to +45°C
  • Overall dims incl. mounting flanges: 131 (W) x 40 (D) x 77 (H) mm
  • Weight: 235g
  • Manufacturer's article number: 1715
Part Number: MPP250

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looks like there is 4x versions goin up in charge current.


Votronic, MPPT 165 Duo Digital charge controller - https://amzn.to/2Gr4g7q

Votronic, MPPT 250 Duo Digital charge controller - https://amzn.to/2sXG6hC

Votronic, MPPT 350 Duo Digital charge controller - https://amzn.to/2t4lGnm

Votronic, MPPT 430 Duo Digital charge controller - https://amzn.to/2O1yGkP

upload_2020-1-26_19-23-45-png.59195


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https://www.votronic.de/images/Manuals/07. Solar Current Technology/1710_1715_1720_1725_e.pdf

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looks like it has LTD (low temp) too . . .

upload_2020-1-26_19-32-46-png.59200
 
Victron has released a new Software/APP version that has some interesting new additions.

Plus as always it includes all the unit Firmware updates.

Victron Connect V5.20



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remember you can now connect to your vans Victron GX MPPT solar or BVM monitors remotely . . . .

If you have WIFI in the van you can use a Raspberbi pi runion VenusOS,

or you could use the Victron GSM module,

more info here: Solar Sheds & Other Non-t6 Solar Projects - How We Done It -

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Heres another interesting product @oldiebut goodie has gone for:


1587383721280.png


its a SPARK branded twin output MPPT charger (similar to the Votronic above)


so its a 25A solar MPPT with a @1A second charge for starter battery.

(looks like both starter and Leisure have to be the same type . . . ie SLA)

it looks similar to the Votronic DUO


1587383185342.png


OVERVIEW

Specifications:


Model number:
MPPT5025A-DUO

Maximum charging current:
25A

Weight:
400g

Charge mode:
MPPT

System voltage:
12V

Size:
147 X 74 X 40mm

Battery number:
two battery charging ports

Battery type:
GEL,lead-acid,AGM2,LiFePO4

Indication:
LED lamp indication + External display
Application: for camper,caravan,self-contained solar systems,for boat

Features:

-Switchable characteristic lines of charging for optimum charging of Gel/dryfit/AGM/fleece or acid/lead-acid,as well asLiFePO4 batteries.
-Increased MPPT charging current comparedwith conventional controllers,due to ultramodern controller technology (microprocessor)by 10% to 30%(efficiency>95 %)
-Unattended Charging: Standard protectionagainst overload,overheating,reverse battery and back discharge of the battery(in case of insufficient solar power,such as at twilight,at night etc).
-MPPT controller Two Battery Charging Ports: Automaticcharging of the main battery or board battery (Board I): Support charging and trickle charging (max.1 A) of the vehicle's starter battery (Start II) with overcharge protection
-Overcharge protection: Reduction of thecharging current of the battery in case of excessive solar power and full battery.Immediate recharging in case ofpower consumption to ensure always the best possible charging state of the battery.

Package included:

-1 XSolar Panel Battery Charge Controller



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c482c8f7-aed6-46e5-b8bb-7dd3ef7d94ff.jpg
MPPT5025A-DUO MPPT 25A 12V Solar Charge Controller With LCD Solar Regulator For Solar Panel Charger Electrical Equipment & Supplies from Tools, Industrial & Scientific on banggood.com
Online Shopping at Banggood.com!
www.banggood.com
www.banggood.com

looks like they do a bluetooth module too . . .

https://www.olyssolar.com/UEditor/net/upload/2017-11-14-26539bf0dd-ec2f-4a3b-babf-32c20f2e7b7d.pdf

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- im just going around and updating some victron kit FW

- heres some interesting Monitoring/Logging data from Victron MPPT controller (Via a browser/VRM portal)

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New Solar Gadget is in for testing.



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RENOGY 20A PWM WATERPROOF CHARGE CONTROLLER
Nominal Voltage: 12 VDCGrounding: Common Negative
Rated Charge Current: 20AMax. PV Input Voltage: 26V
Self-consumption: ≤8mATemperature Compensation Coefficient: -24mV/°C
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 140°FStorage Temperature: -40°F to 185°F
Enclosure: IP65Dimensions: 6.38 x 3.82 x 1.34 inches
Terminals: Up to 10 AWGWeight: 0.88 lbs



PWM controller. . . . so VOC 26v max and 20A throughput

its fully water proof and rubber potted.


heres mine . . . .

i know its not as efficient as a MPPT controller . . . but i liked the look of it and being water proof i though it could go well as part of the camping kit.

so to test it throw 100w,200w,300w at it and see what happens.


20200524_101344.jpg20200524_101352.jpg20200524_101431.jpg

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TBC . . . . . .


edit:


the build up . . .

Anderson and MC4 connectors . . .

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about 8 inches of 10AWG silicone flex cable . . this red and black stripper is perfect for this type of cable.



20200524_155502.jpg

the ends crimp on nicely with the HS-16 Crimper.

20200524_155558.jpg


then heatshrink with the Gun . . .

20200524_155852.jpg

next up MC4 connectors . . . noting the correct male/female for the flow of power from the panel, as the leads will be an input to the controller i need to put opposite ends on so they match up correctly with the solar panel connectors .

20200524_160154.jpg

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dont for get the weather boot.


then fit fork terminals or split-n-fit. . . .


20200524_160907.jpg

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then slide the boot up. . . .


a quick test.

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giving us 5.07A on the PV side . . . . (Lensun flexable 110W panel)


20200524_164016.jpg



TBC . . .


edit:

night shots,

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another PWM DUAL BATTERY Solar :


STECA SOLARIX 20A DUAL BATTERY SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER FOR ANY COMBINATION OF TWO 12V / 24V BATTERIES FOR UP TO 320W (12V) / 640W (24V) SOLAR INPUT



1590336341375.png



This dual battery solar charge controller is the perfect choice for charging two 12V / 24V batteries or battery banks with solar panels up to 320W (12V) or 640W (24V). Unlike most other dual battery controllers which only permit 12V + 12V or 24V + 24V battery combinations, this particular unit also permits the user to simultaneously charge one 12V battery/ battery bank and one 24V battery/ battery bank. This innovative model also uniquely features terminals for direct load output. German design, engineering and manufacturing ensure unrivalled standards of quality and efficiency.

PWM technology: this controller uses PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) technology which increases charge acceptance and prolongs the life of your batteries. PWM technology can also recover some lost battery capacity. The technology allows the controller to work not only with standard off-grid solar panels, but also with on-grid panels or solar panel arrays up to 60V (though it works at maximum efficiency with solar panels with an operating voltage of 17V-20V for 12V batteries, or 34V-40V for 24V batteries). The maximum allowed solar power input for this controller is 320W for a 12V system and 640W for a 24V system.

Dual battery capability: this is a perfect solar controller for a caravan, motorhome, boat or another system with 2 batteries (e.g. engine and leisure battery). The controller will charge the primary battery with 90% of available solar power, whilst the auxiliary battery will be charged with 10% of available power. When one of the batteries is fully charged, the controller will automatically divert all power to the other battery. The exact charging ratio can be adjusted with the use of a remote meter (can be purchased here). Please note: This solar charge controller is also suitable for charging only one battery. The controller will automatically recognise this, and directly pass on 100% of the charging current to the single battery. A second battery may be added at any time.

Full system protection: this controller features one of the most extensive ranges of electronic protection functions currently available. These prevent reverse current at night (from the battery back to the solar panel), over charge, deep discharge, short circuit, and battery reverse polarity. Additional protection functions include open circuit protection, an automatic electronic fuse and self-diagnostic capability to highlight and resolve any system faults.

Additional features:

  • Option to directly connect a load output (up to 20A) with full over discharge protection for the batteries.
  • USB output (5V 1.5A) allows the possibility to charge any USB-compatible device (e.g. a mobile phone / tablet).
  • Multi-coloured LED indicators to facilitate clear monitoring of battery condition, charging status, load status and fault detection.
  • RJ-45 socket for a remote LCD meter to personalise default charging parameters.
  • Built-in temperature sensor allows charging adjustment depending on the ambient temperature.
 
** New Product **

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I know this is an old thread but how are the dual solar charge controllers working out for people?

Seriously contemplating one of the ones above.
 
The Beast - Victron MPPT 100/30 (440W solar)



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+++

i have two of these now, mainly for running the DiscoTent and Camping setup. (had one for a couple of years, now got a second for 2021)

i through 100-400W worth of panels on them and let them go . . .








  • Ultra-fast MPP tracker of the latest generation ensures the best possible yield even when the sky is covered. New model with integrated Bluetooth dongle – no additional device required for pairing with smartphone or tablet. High maximum efficiency of 98%
  • 440 W maximum PV power at 12 V, 880 W for 24 V systems - 100 V maximum PV idle voltage - 30 A maximum charging current
  • Fully programmable charging algorithms that can later be activated and used manually via a switch on the housing
  • For 12 V and 24 V systems
  • Dimensions: 130 x 186 x 70 mm. Weight: 3 kg




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@Dellmassive

Thanks again for your awesome guides mate. I'm just waiting on the last couple of bits to arrive then I'm wiring in my controller. I have just one question that I've not been able to resolve searching the threads. Do I need to earth my Victron MPPT controller? What's your thoughts on that? I get the impression it's kind of optional. What's the risks in not earthing it? I've got the 10A fuse in the positive cable to the battery. I'm going to hard wire everything in with an Anderson connector between the battery and controller so I can take it out easily if required. And then I have a folding portable panel to attach to the connectors for the solar input when I set it up. Did that make sense?
 
@Dellmassive

Thanks again for your awesome guides mate. I'm just waiting on the last couple of bits to arrive then I'm wiring in my controller. I have just one question that I've not been able to resolve searching the threads. Do I need to earth my Victron MPPT controller? What's your thoughts on that? I get the impression it's kind of optional. What's the risks in not earthing it? I've got the 10A fuse in the positive cable to the battery. I'm going to hard wire everything in with an Anderson connector between the battery and controller so I can take it out easily if required. And then I have a folding portable panel to attach to the connectors for the solar input when I set it up. Did that make sense?
Thank you for the kind words, Glad the thread helped.

++++++++


No "earth" needed for MPPT ( as in 240vac EHU Earth )

but a chassis 0v Ground is needed, but you have that covered with your Anderson quick connect.


++++++++

Example:




1672909210359.png


.
 
The Beast - Victron MPPT 100/30 (440W solar)



View attachment 118834View attachment 118835View attachment 118836


+++

i have two of these now, mainly for running the DiscoTent and Camping setup. (had one for a couple of years, now got a second for 2021)

i through 100-400W worth of panels on them and let them go . . .








  • Ultra-fast MPP tracker of the latest generation ensures the best possible yield even when the sky is covered. New model with integrated Bluetooth dongle – no additional device required for pairing with smartphone or tablet. High maximum efficiency of 98%
  • 440 W maximum PV power at 12 V, 880 W for 24 V systems - 100 V maximum PV idle voltage - 30 A maximum charging current
  • Fully programmable charging algorithms that can later be activated and used manually via a switch on the housing
  • For 12 V and 24 V systems
  • Dimensions: 130 x 186 x 70 mm. Weight: 3 kg




View attachment 118837




.
..


View attachment 118838

View attachment 118839


View attachment 118840
Hi Lee, yet another great write up. I had my leisure battery fitted recently which is great but im now wishing I had also added a mobile solar solution added.

Now sorry for my limited knowledge but am I right in saying to future proof myself Im better off going with 100/30 MPPT?

What I need is a way to just hook up a panel on a long extension lead and attach it to the roof bars or on the ground and trickle change the leisure battery. So after reading through the threads is it just the MPPT wired to my battery and out to the to the panel??

cheers Peter

sounds too straightforward...:oops:
 
Thanks, glad you like the threads....

Yes, that simple.

You have the leisure battery etc.... So just get the Victron mppt. The 100/30 is a great unit and will take upto 400w odd.

You need to connect to the battery via fused connection, either on clips or hard wired.....

Then just connect your mobile panel..... Free charge power from the sun.

Super sweet awesome.
 
tons more stuff here:








.
 
Thanks, glad you like the threads....

Yes, that simple.

You have the leisure battery etc.... So just get the Victron mppt. The 100/30 is a great unit and will take upto 400w odd.

You need to connect to the battery via fused connection, either on clips or hard wired.....

Then just connect your mobile panel..... Free charge power from the sun.

Super sweet awesome.
So as far as cables are concerned do I use this for the tails
1688391155054.png
And then use an extention lead like this
1000022712.jpg

Then connecting to the battery I would have the fused connection

Screenshot_20230703_143737_Amazon Shopping.jpg

Connecting into the above and going to the MPPT one of these

Screenshot_20230703_143754_Amazon Shopping.jpg
 
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