This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.
Both sides previous revision Previous revision Next revision | Previous revision Next revision Both sides next revision | ||
electrical:solar:charge_controller [2020/05/25 12:02] frater_secessus [how to choose] |
electrical:solar:charge_controller [2020/06/30 09:43] frater_secessus [Using LOAD output] |
||
---|---|---|---|
Line 45: | Line 45: | ||
There are //DC-DC converting charge controllers// | There are //DC-DC converting charge controllers// | ||
==== how to choose ==== | ==== how to choose ==== | ||
- | **PWM is the default choice** in most situations((12v house power, 12v panels)) because they work well enough and are inexpensive. PWM controllers can cost half or a third of their MPPT workmates for any given rated output.((10A, | + | **PWM is a reasonable |
If more power is needed (and there is physical space) additional PV can be added to match the charging output of an MPPT charger, often at a lower cost. [There are no prizes for fanciest or most expensive charge controller! | If more power is needed (and there is physical space) additional PV can be added to match the charging output of an MPPT charger, often at a lower cost. [There are no prizes for fanciest or most expensive charge controller! | ||
Line 64: | Line 64: | ||
* the existing PWM system is not providing enough output | * the existing PWM system is not providing enough output | ||
+ | * using monocrystalline panels, as the higher Vmp and lower Imp further reduces PWM output. | ||
* battery banks are cycled deeply on a regular basis so more time is spent at low Vbatt where PWM struggles. | * battery banks are cycled deeply on a regular basis so more time is spent at low Vbatt where PWM struggles. | ||
* nominal 12v panels have a relatively high Vmp (>=18v) for [[https:// | * nominal 12v panels have a relatively high Vmp (>=18v) for [[https:// | ||
Line 96: | Line 97: | ||
> Inductive loads can generate large voltage spikes that may damage the controller’s lightning protection devices.((http:// | > Inductive loads can generate large voltage spikes that may damage the controller’s lightning protection devices.((http:// | ||
although an exception is made for the SunSaver MPPT which " | although an exception is made for the SunSaver MPPT which " | ||
+ | |||
One can run loads heavier than the controller is rated for (or inductive/ | One can run loads heavier than the controller is rated for (or inductive/ | ||
+ | |||
You may also be able to use the LOAD output to create a [[electrical: | You may also be able to use the LOAD output to create a [[electrical: | ||
+ | |||
Note: in wind and hydro power applications the output can be sequenced so that LOAD is activated only when batteries are fully charged. | Note: in wind and hydro power applications the output can be sequenced so that LOAD is activated only when batteries are fully charged. | ||
===== positive ground controllers ===== | ===== positive ground controllers ===== |