PWM vs MPPT Test Results
Today (blue sky, not quite to STC at this date at this latitude 49.3N but almost according to the calculator on that) I was able to run a test on my 230w panel and Eco-Worthy 20a MPPT controller. ...
Forum Discussion
Shadow Catcher wrote:
The comparison I would like to see is a more well known i.e. Morningstar MPPT vs Morningstar PMW solar controller. The price point on the Ecoworthy is more in line with a morningstar PMW controller and I am suspicious of their "simulated" reading.
I would love to do a comparison showing how they work. I recently bought an Oscilloscope input to the lap top and want to check wave forms etc.
months ago I did an extensive set of test using a morningstar MPPT controller, mostly looking at IR loss effects on long cable runs (100ft) for portable use with a MPPT controller and did some comparison with a PWM controller.
In the tests I also compared results with a morningstar PWM controller.
From what I recall, my results showed similar to BFL's % gain with MPPT controller each was configured with the controller at the battery.
In "bang for the buck" BFL's MPPT controller appears to be doing a very good job. Double or triple the price of the controller to a Morningstar and maybe you will get another 1% gain. Hardly worth it. And as BFL points out, the Morningstar MPPT controller I have limits at 15A
In a comparison of a morningstar PWM vs. BFl's MPPT (both about the same price) BFL's wins hands down.
BTW, these % gains are in the ballpark for calculating the % gain expected with 12V panels in "good sun" commonly used by RV'rs knowing how a MPPT controller works vs. PWM if you know the panels Vmp, Imp, Isc, Vsc and typical conversion efficiency and derating panels for temperature effects.
