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jrnymn7's avatar
jrnymn7
Explorer
Nov 13, 2014

PWM controller question

I'm looking at the following panels, which are too big for indoor storage, but I think I have a viable plan for side mounting them

http://2solar.ca/product/12v-140-watt-pv-solar-panel/

And I'm looking for a compatible controller. The following is an el-cheapo on Ebay:


http://www.ebay.ca/itm/181432216196?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649


I have a question regarding the Voltage set points? I'm wondering what is meant by "boost, direct, and float charge voltages". Specifically, what is the "direct" charge voltage, and when would it be applied?

My goal is to have a controller that does not drop down into the 13.x volt range prematurely.

Any other controller recommendations would be welcome also.

Thanks!

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  • BFL13's avatar
    BFL13
    Explorer II
    Nov 13, 2014
    I like my Solar30 much better than that kind of controller above, even though it has that neat fuzzy control and is wearing its jumper.

    The Solar30 has an ammeter and display too which is handy. You can see what amps the solar is doing at any time compared with the Trimetric which shows how much the battery is taking.

    The Solar30 has an adjustable voltage and once you get the batteries to that it stays at that voltage till amps drop at dusk. If you want to float at 13.6 you can set that whenever you want. It reads as though it has two adjustments but in fact Vabs is also the Float.

    I did like my LandStar which went to 14.6 stayed there for two hours and then dropped to 13.8 nothing adjustable, but it has no ammeter and that two hours isn't always what you want. Solar30 is better having used both.

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