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--- electrical:solar:tracer [2019/07/21 11:50]
frater_secessus [quirks]
+++ electrical:solar:tracer [2023/01/18 13:33] (current)
frater_secessus [quirks]
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 ====== Chinese MPPT charge controllers ======
 Prior to the introduction of Chinese controllers, MPPT was an expensive feature found only on controllers costing hundreds of dollars.  Chinese controllers cost about half the price of premium controllers.
+PWM controllers have [[electrical:solar:pwm|their own page.]]
+===== Tracer =====
+Current production models are below;  [[electrical:solar:tracer-old|older models have been moved]].
+===== nomenclature =====
+Many of the Tracer series follow a model number pattern consisting of rated current, max voltage input, and "[[electrical:solar:charge_controller#positive_ground_controllers|ground]]".
+Example:  [[https://amzn.to/3pi4T97|EpEver 2206AN]] =
-===== Tracer =====
+  * **2**206AN - rated capacity (20A)((two-digit "10" means 100A))
+  * 2**2**06AN - nominal charging voltage
+    * 2 - 12/24v
+    * 4 - 12/24/36/48v
+  * 22**06**AN - max input voltage- 06 = 60V input((10 == 100v, 15 == 150v, 20 == 200v))
+  * 2206**AN** -  model series (with N meaning negative "ground", see above)
-Current production models are below;  [[electrical:solar:tracer-old|older models have been moved]].
+===== quirks =====
+==== MPPT algorithm performance ====
+The algo is slow but performs very well under good solar conditions.  Under poor or rapidly-changing solar conditions [[opinion:frater_secessus:epever|it may underperform]].
+==== programming ====
-==== quirks ====
+Some [[electrical:solar:charge_controller_setpoints|voltage setpoints]] are constrained in relationship to each other.   Because of this it may be easiest to write them down in this order((http://techluck.com/cgi-bin/YaBB.pl?num=1486955008)) (lowest to highest voltage) to make sure the logic below is followed.  Then program them into the controller.
-Some [[electrical:solar:charge_controller_setpoints|voltage setpoints]] are constrained in relationship to each other.   Because of this it may be easiest to configure them in a particular order.((http://techluck.com/cgi-bin/YaBB.pl?num=1486955008))  This order places the configurations in increasing (or equal) voltages the way the controller wants it.
-  - "Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage"
+  - "Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage" (load)((reconnect loads after regaining this voltage))
-  - "Boost Reconnect"
+  - "Boost Reconnect"((if voltage falls below this in Float then Boost/Absorption will be restarted))
   - Then "Float Charge"
   - Then "Boost Charge"
   - Then "Equalize Charge"
-  - Then "Over Voltage Reconnect"
+  - Then "Over Voltage Reconnect" (load)((reconnect at this voltage aftr OVD has kicked in))
-  - Then "Charging Limit"
+  - Then "Charging Limit"((highest voltage the controller will allow for charging))
-  - Then "Over Voltage Disconnect"
+  - Then "Over Voltage Disconnect" (load)
+**PARA errors** mean the internal logic of the setpoints has been violated:
+> The **following rules** must be observed when modifying the parameter's value in user battery type
+> Over Voltage Disconnect Voltage (load) > Charging Limit Voltage ≥ Equalize Charging Voltage ≥ Boost Charging Voltage ≥ Float Charging Voltage > Boost Reconnect Charging Voltage.
+> Over Voltage Disconnect Voltage (load) > Over Voltage Reconnect Voltage (load)
+> Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage (load) > Low Voltage Disconnect Voltage (load) ≥ Discharging Limit Voltage.
+> Under Voltage Warning Reconnect Voltage (load)((low voltage warning turns off here)) > Under Voltage Warning Voltage (load) ≥ Discharging Limit Voltage (load)((no effect other than warning in standalone systems))
+> Boost Reconnect Charging voltage > Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage.
 {{http://img.mousetrap.net/boondocking/MT-50_displayEvil.jpg?150 }}
 Tracer (and the Renogy rebrands) refer to the **Absorption stage as "boost"**.  This is an unforced error; the nonstandard term confuses newcomers and conflicts with the already-existing "[[electrical:solar:charge_controller#mppt|MPPT boost]]" term.
-The **battery icon** found on many Tracer controllers is unnecessary and misleading.  The manual claims it is a  [[electrical:depth_of_discharge|State of Charge]] meter but there is no guide to reading it.  Since the same voltage can result in different display during charging and non-charging scenarios, it may actually be useful to think of as a **charging indicator rather than state of charge indicator**.  Secessus' unscientific observation reveals these weak correlations:
+The LOAD icon (light bulb ON/OFF) indicates whether the LOAD terminals are powered, not whether or not anything is connected to them or consuming power.
+=== battery SOC icon ===
+The **battery icon** found on many Tracer controllers is unnecessary and misleading.  The manual claims it is a  [[electrical:depth_of_discharge|State of Charge]] meter but there is no guide to reading it.  Since the same voltage can result in different display during charging and non-charging scenarios, it may actually be useful to think of as a **charging indicator rather than state of charge indicator**.  Secessus' unscientific observation reveals these weak correlations:
 | |  **Charging**|  **Not charging**|
 |  **5 bars / 100%**|  Float| |
@@ Line 39: / Line 76: @@
 |  **1 bar / 20%: early bulk**|  early Bulk, <Vfloat|  <= Vreconnect|
 |  **0 bar / 0%:  **|  not charging|  <= Vlvd|
+===== lithium compatibility =====
+EpEver says the Tracer series is not fully lithium compatible since they cannot "activate" Li batteries that have shut themselves down.((https://www.epsolarpv.com/upload/file/1812/EPEVER%20Tracer%20AN_Main_Pres.pdf))  [IMO this is an unnecessarily high criterion which other mfg do not adhere to.  [[electrical:12v:drop-in_lifepo4#mythyou_can_t_charge_li_with_a_lead_battery_charger|Almost any configurable charger can be used for lithium]].  - secessus]
+There is anecdotal evidence that the PC software can configure the controller to stop charging below a given temperature.
+  * [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nihEFe0XJXU|Budget LiFePo4 Low-Temp Protection Solution & Test]]
+  * [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qp1qbJu2N5I|MPPT low temp disconnect]]
+===== models =====
 ==== A series ====
 {{https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51Ea6Qpt0zL._AC_UL160_SR160,160_.jpg }}
 The A series has a front LCD display and rear-facing heat fins. It can handle up to 100v of solar input.
+The A series (and BN below) use the MT-50 display.  Communications are via RJ-485 adapter and the [[http://www.solar-elektro.cz/data/dokumenty/1733_modbus_protocol.pdf|LS-B protocol]] (pdf).  [[https://github.com/kasbert/epsolar-tracer|Open source software]] is available.
+==== AN series up to 40A ====
-The A series (and BN below) use the MT-50 display.  Communications are via RJ-485 adapter and the [[http://www.solar-elektro.cz/data/dokumenty/1733_modbus_protocol.pdf|LS-B protocol]] (pdf).  [[https://github.com/kasbert/epsolar-tracer|Open source software]] is available.
+The AN variant is "[[electrical:solar:charge_controller#positive_ground_controllers|negative ground]]" but is otherwise indistinguishable from the A series.
+==== AN series 50A and higher ====
+[[https://amzn.to/3h54DGt|{{ https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51po2qCFXIL._AC_UY218_.jpg}}]]
+The >=50A AN series uses the same display and possibly firmware of the smaller AN units, but has several differences:
+  * very large and heavy;  make sure you have space before ordering one
+  * 100v, 150v, and 200v versions is instead of 60v/100v in smaller AN
+  * removable cover over wiring terminals -- see pic at right;  terminal screws are not visible
+  * battery voltage sensing wire can be plugged into a small terminal plug
+  * LOAD output is removed;  low LOAD functionality remains via small terminal plug1,used only for relays and controlling generators
+Variants:
+  * 5415AN - 50A, 12/24/48v banks, 150v input
+  * 5420AN - 50A, 12/24/48v banks, 200v input
+  * 6210AN - 60A, 12v/24v banks, 100v input
+  * 6415AN - 60A, 12/24/48v banks, 150v input
+  * 6420AN - 60A, 12v/24v/48v banks, 200v input
+  * 8415AN - 80A, 12/24/48v banks, 150v input
+  * 8420AN - 80A, 12/24/48v banks, 200v input
+  * 10415AN - 100A, 12/24/48v banks, 150v input
+  * 10420AN - 100A, 12/24/48v banks, 200v input
+When assessing input voltage needs, see the manuals that specify how ambient temperature affects Vmax tolerance.
 ==== BN series ====
 {{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51QoYHrxkRL._AC_US160_.jpg}}
 The BN series has no display.  It has massive front-mounted heat fins.  It is the first Tracer with so-called [[electrical:solar:charge_controller#positive_ground_controllers|negative ground]].
 The BN controllers use the same comms setup as the A series above.  Some users have reported sluggish PPT under changing conditions.
 ==== eTracer BND series ====
 This 150v, "negative ground" controller looks like a BN with an inset display module.
 Comms are by RS232, CAN BUS and Ethernet.
 The eTracer is also sold as the Renogy Commander.
 [[http://www.epsolarpv.com/en/uploads/news/201311/1383794723784755.pdf|manual]] (pdf)
+==== Triron N series ====
-==== Triron series ====
 {{ http://www.epsolarpv.com/en/uploads/news/201708/1503388440391804.jpg}}
+The Triron is a modular controller:
+> ...which can be integrated with different display and interface modules to meet a variety of functional requirements.... There are three display modules (Basic 1(DB1), Standard1(DS1) and Stardard2(DS2)) and four  interface modules (USB COM Slave(UCS),Relay COM Slave(RCS), Relay COM Master(RCM) and Dual USB1(USB1)). Users can choose any combination of these modules according to their needs. -- [[https://www.epsolarpv.com/upload/file/1909/EPEVER-Datasheet-TRIRON.pdf|datasheet]]
+  * negative ground
+  * modular construction
+  * low temperature charging cutoff((https://diysolarforum.com/threads/is-epever-mppt-solar-charge-controller-capable-of-low-temp-shut-off.22931/post-302135))
 The Triron is also sold as the Renogy Rover, which can be programmed using the [[https://www.renogy.com/rover-20-amp-mppt-solar-charge-controller/#tab_prd-downloads|free software]].
+[[https://www.epsolarpv.com/upload/cert/file/1811/TRIRON-SMS-EL-V1.2.pdf|manual]]
 ==== SPP programmers ====
 {{https://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/ODUwWDg1MA==/z/3eIAAOSw9EZZi~Dl/$_58.JPG?200 }}
 The SPP-01 and -02 appear to be devices that can be used to backup or configure Tracers in the field.  They are largely undocumented.
 ==== MT-50 display ====
 {{ https://us.v-cdn.net/6024911/uploads/editor/l6/v53xktbye01p.jpg?150}}  The MT-50 display is not a meter //per se//.  It is a display for controller information and an interface by which configuration changes can be made.
 The **default screen** shows input from panel (volts and amps), output to battery (volts and amps), and output to LOAD (volts and amps).
+The LOAD icon (light bulb) has rays around it **when the load circuit is on**;  this does not mean there is a load present.
+Because of a tweak Renogy made to their version of the controllers, the plain MT-50 will not work and you must pay extra for [[https://amzn.to/2YueTzP|the Renogy MT-50]].
+Note:  some comms problems can be solved by [[https://www.reddit.com/r/SolarDIY/comments/t4xydv/fixing_an_epever_tracer_4210an_charge_controller/|adjusting the baud rate]].
-The LOAD icon (light bulb) has rays around it **when the load circuit is on**;  this does not mean there is a load present.
+==== MT-75 display ====
+A [[https://www.epsolarpv.com/product/73.html|MT-75 display]] is available in some regions.  It has two RJ-45 inputs for connection to both the charge controller and an inverter
-===== Eco-worthy =====
-[[http://amzn.to/2znDiMi|{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51NrvP7ovWL._AC_US218_.jpg}}]] The Eco-worth was one of the first low-priced true MPPT controllers on the market.
+  * [[https://www.epsolarpv.com/upload/file/2008/MT75-Manual-EN-V1.1.pdf|manual]] (pdf)
+  * [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMW989UX52E|YT overview]] by Adam Welch
-Eco-worthy refers to three stage charging as "impulse, bulk, and float".
-[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgWAa7dmn98|Youtube review: eBay MPPT Solar Charge Controller Review - 12v Solar Shed]].
+==== wireless modules ====
+{{ http://img.mousetrap.net/boondocking/Screenshot_20191004-112248.jpg?125}}Epever makes [[https://amzn.to/2pJmrjs|bluetooth]] and [[https://amzn.to/31UbKsD|wifi]] modules that plug in to the same port the MT-50 uses.  This allows the [[https://www.epsolarpv.com/downsoft.html|free smartphone app]] to connect to the controller over bt/wifi for configuration and display. Pic to the right is from secessus' rig.
+[[https://amzn.to/2noYIED|Renogy rebadges the modules]] for their [rebadged] controllers.
-----
+Note that these apps talk directly to the modules over BT/Wifi;  they do not pair to the phone or connect to the wifi access point.  Connect to the module through the app itself.
-===== MPPT boosting controllers =====
+See [[https://vanlivingforum.com/threads/epever-ebox-wifi-com-port-adapter-for-charge-controller.43241/|this post]] for advanced use of the wifi version.
-{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51n1AlgRMWL._AC_US160_.jpg?100}}These little 10A controllers are indeed MPPT, but of limited use for RVers.  They are strictly "boosting" (upconverting) controllers instead of the usual downconverting controllers.  This means they could be used to charge a 24v bank from 12v panels.
-[This company needs to make a normal MPPT at this price point!  -- secessus]
+----
+===== Eco-worthy =====
+[[http://amzn.to/2znDiMi|{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51NrvP7ovWL._AC_US218_.jpg}}]] The Eco-worth was one of the first low-priced true MPPT controllers on the market.
+Eco-worthy refers to three stage charging as "impulse, bulk, and float".
+[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgWAa7dmn98|Youtube review: eBay MPPT Solar Charge Controller Review - 12v Solar Shed]].
+----
+===== MPPT boosting controllers =====
+{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51n1AlgRMWL._AC_US160_.jpg?100}}The [[https://amzn.to/35e0KIM|mpt-7210a 10A controllers]] are indeed MPPT, but of limited use for RVers.  They are strictly "boosting" (upconverting) controllers instead of the usual downconverting controllers.  This means they could be used to charge a 24v bank from 12v panels.  Or, for example, a 48v ebike from 12v portable panels.
+[This company needs to make a normal MPPT at this price point!  -- secessus]
 ----
 ===== fake MPPT units =====
 The following units are "fake" in the sense that they do not do MPPT. Some are PWM, some are shunt.  This doesn't mean they won't work but it does mean they are marketed incorrectly.  Adjust your willingness to pay based on actual function.
 ==== CPT/CPY ====
 === CPT-LA10 ===
 [[http://amzn.to/2iSeyFc|{{https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51t1rrF7RjL._AC_US218_.jpg?75 }}]]The CPT is a non-adjustable 10A controller with claimed 100v input.
 [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z5r3Yo6fmQ&t=335s|Adam Welch tested]] to 40+ voltage.  Vabs appeared to be 14.7v and Vfloat appeared to be 13.5v, although it could be a [[electrical:12v:charging#charge-and-stop|charge-and-stop]] unit that happened to rest at 13.5v.
 [[http://www.dkvolt.dk/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Laderegulator-MPPT-10A-CPT.pdf|CPT manual]]
 [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z5r3Yo6fmQ|Youtube review: Another Cheap MPPT Charge Controller - CPT-LA10 - 12v Solar Shed]]
 === CPY-2410 ===
 [[http://amzn.to/2ykBGTz|{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51TvjTt53sL._AC_US160_.jpg?75}}]]
 Note:  while early versions (1.6) were reported to do actual MPPT, later versions (2.3) are reported to be dumbed down.   The later versions still do DC-DC conversion but do not track powerpoints;  they run the panels about 2v higher than battery voltage.  See the comments on [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxy5JBUuFaQ|this test video]] and [[https://boondockplan.wordpress.com/tag/cpy-2410/|these blog posts]].
 [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05IcvuI7kJ8|Youtube review: UEIUA Cheap MPPT Solar Charge Controller - 12v Solar Shed]]
 === CPS-2410 ===
 {{https://i.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/m/mPzETvhXBeG1692y3lhZU0g/s-l225.jpg?75 }}The CPS appears to be the new/dumb CPY in a different case with a much bigger heatsink.
 ----
 ==== M10 / T10 ====
 {{ https://i.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/m/m-rs8akWzdfagSa6U4VuzjA/s-l225.jpg?75}}The M and T series are adjustable shunt controllers.
 ----
 ==== CMT ====
 {{https://i.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/m/mxY3693tLp_jPH7AC-SWMVQ/s-l225.jpg?75 }}CMT controllers are non-adjustable PWM of decent quality, sometimes sold by unscrupulous or uninformed sellers as MPPT.
 ----
 ==== waterproof ====
 {{ https://i.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/m/mSN0FmxrTlt1EEGuRJFS-eg/s-l225.jpg?75}}The waterproof controllers are pwm at best. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lnShSebU4o|Confirmed by Adam Welch]].

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