1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ANERN AN-MSC Series MPPT Solar Charge Controller. This controller is designed to efficiently manage power flow from your solar panels to your battery bank, ensuring optimal charging and system protection. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure safe and correct operation.
Figure 1: ANERN MPPT Solar Charge Controller Overview
2. Key Features
- Advanced MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology with tracking efficiency no less than 99.5%.
- High-quality components for improved system performance, with a maximum conversion efficiency of up to 97%.
- Super-fast maximum power tracking speed.
- Accurate identification and tracking of multi-wave peak maximum power points.
- Reliable maximum input power for PV array to ensure equipment safety.
- Wide PV array maximum power point operating voltage range.
- Automatic 12V/24V system voltage identification.
- LCD display for dynamic operation data and working status.
- Multiple load control modes: Regular mode, Light control mode, Light & Time mode, Reverse Light Control mode.
- Compatibility with various battery types: Sealed, GEL, Flooded, LiFePO4, and Li(NiCoMn)O2.
- Battery temperature compensation function.
- Power statistics recording function.
- External display unit and peripheral support for real-time data view and parameter settings.
3. Specifications
| Parameter | AN-MSC-20A | AN-MSC-30A | AN-MSC-40A | AN-MSC-60A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rated Charge Current | 20A | 30A | 40A | 60A |
| Max Open Voltage of Solar Panel | 60V | 75V | 100V | 150V |
| Rated Voltage (Auto) | 12V/24V | |||
| System Rated Voltage | 12V/24V Auto Recognized | |||
| Battery Voltage Range | 8V-32V | |||
| Voltage | AN-MSC-20A | AN-MSC-30A | AN-MSC-40A | AN-MSC-60A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12V | 260W | 390W | 520W | 780W |
| 24V | 520W | 780W | 1040W | 1560W |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Rated Discharge Current | 20A (for 20A model), 30A (for 30A, 40A, 60A models) |
| Static Loss | ≤50mA |
| High Voltage Disconnection (HVD) | Lead acid battery 16V (24V for 24V system) |
| Light Control Voltage | 5V/10V |
| Working Humidity | ≤90%, No condensation |
| Protection Class | IP30 |
| Grounded Type | Positive Grounded |
| Aperture for Installation | Φ5mm |
| Temperature Compensation Coefficient | -4mV/℃/2V (25℃) |
| Discharge Loop Voltage Drop | ≤0.2V |
| LCD Temperature | -20℃ ~ +70℃ |
| Operation Temperature | -20℃ ~ +55℃ |
| Storage Temperature | -30℃ ~ +80℃ |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | User default, Sealed, Flooded, GEL, LiFePO4, Li(NiCoMn)O2 |
| Equalized Charging Voltage | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery: 14.6V; Lead-Acid Flooded battery: 14.8V. Duration: 2 hours. (GEL: No) |
| Absorption Charging Voltage | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery: 14.4V; Lead-Acid Flooded battery: 14.6V. Duration: 2 hours. (GEL: No) |
| Float Charging Voltage | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery, GEL, Lead-Acid Flooded battery |
| Low Voltage Re-connection (LVR) | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery, GEL; Lead-Acid Flooded battery: 12.6V. |
| Low Voltage Disconnection (LVD) | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery, GEL; Lead-Acid Flooded battery: 10.8V. |
Note: The controller will initiate PWM function at the High Voltage Disconnection (HVD) voltage point, which limits voltage rising to protect the battery.
4. Safety Precautions
- Ensure all wiring is correctly polarized and securely connected to prevent damage to the controller or other components.
- Always connect the battery first, then the solar panel, and finally the load. Disconnect in the reverse order.
- Do not exceed the maximum input voltage or current ratings of the controller.
- Install the controller in a well-ventilated area to ensure proper heat dissipation.
- The controller is designed for positive grounding.
- Keep the controller away from flammable materials and moisture.
Figure 2: Controller Protection Functions
5. Installation
Follow these steps to connect cables and install your MPPT solar charge controller:
- Open the cover with both hands down to view the screw terminals.
- Wire the battery first.
- Then connect the photovoltaic (solar panel).
- Finally, connect the load.
Figure 3: Installation Steps
Figure 4: Wiring Diagram
The controller features a die-cast aluminum structure for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring continuous and stable charging performance.
Figure 5: Heat Dissipation Design
6. Operation
6.1 Interface Description
The LCD provides real-time information about your solar system. The buttons allow for navigation and setting adjustments.
Figure 6: LCD Display and Button Functions
6.2 Load Operating Modes
The controller offers four selectable load working modes. The default load working mode is 24 hours (always on).
- LD1 (Regular mode): The load works normally and can be turned on or off manually.
- LD2 (Light control mode): The load automatically opens at dark and closes at dawn.
- LD3 (Light & time control mode): Load working hours after dark, load working hours before dawn. Automatically identifies dark and light according to the local environment.
- LD4 (Reverse light control mode): Load automatically opens at dawn, load automatically closes at dark.
Figure 7: Load Operating Modes
6.3 Battery Type Selection
The controller supports various battery types including Sealed, GEL, Flooded, LiFePO4, and Li(NiCoMn)O2. You can select the appropriate charging process for your battery type to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Figure 8: Compatible Battery Types
7. User Tips
- Battery Settings: For lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, ensure you customize the settings to match your battery's specific voltage requirements for charging and discharging. The controller allows for selection of various battery types.
- PV Panel Sizing: When connecting solar panels, ensure the total wattage and open circuit voltage (Voc) of your PV array do not exceed the controller's maximum input power and max open voltage specifications for your chosen model (e.g., a 40A controller can handle up to 1040W for a 24V system).
- Wiring Gauge: Always use appropriate wire gauges for your solar panel, battery, and load connections to minimize voltage drop and ensure safety. Consult electrical standards or a qualified electrician if unsure.
- Heat Dissipation: Mount the controller in a location with good airflow to allow the metal back cover to effectively dissipate heat, especially during high charging currents.
8. Maintenance
- Regularly inspect all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion.
- Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris to ensure proper heat dissipation.
- Check the LCD display periodically for any error codes or unusual readings.
- Ensure the ambient temperature around the controller remains within the specified operating range (-20℃ to +55℃).
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your solar charge controller, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- No display/No power: Check battery connections and ensure the battery voltage is within the acceptable range (8V-32V).
- No charging from PV: Verify solar panel connections, ensure sufficient sunlight, and check the PV array's open circuit voltage. Ensure the PV array's maximum open voltage does not exceed the controller's limit.
- Load not working: Check load connections, ensure the load operating mode is correctly set, and verify that the battery has sufficient charge.
- Over-voltage/Over-discharge protection: The controller has built-in protection. If these activate, check your battery voltage and system settings. The controller will automatically resume normal operation once conditions return to safe levels.
- High temperature: Ensure the controller is installed in a well-ventilated area and not exposed to direct sunlight or other heat sources.
10. Warranty & Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
11. Product Overview Video
Watch this short video for a visual overview of the ANERN MPPT Solar Charge Controller, showcasing its design, interfaces, heat dissipation, and available models.
Video 1: ANERN MPPT Solar Charge Controller Product Overview