EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller User Manual

1. General Information

1.1 Overview

The Tracer-AN G3/Tracer-AN G3 BLE series controllers are designed with a new concept, using the solar charge controller as the main component. The Tracer-AN G3 BLE series includes a built-in Bluetooth module, allowing users to conveniently read and write parameters via a phone application.

These controllers utilize an advanced MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) control algorithm to minimize power loss and maximize energy harvest from the PV array under various conditions. Compared to PWM charging methods, MPPT solar controllers can increase energy utilization by 10%-30%. Features like charging current limit, charging power limit, and high-temperature charging automatic power reduction ensure system stability, even with excess PV modules or high operating temperatures. A professional protection chip for the RS485 port further enhances reliability.

The Tracer-AN series controllers feature a self-adaptive three-stage charging mode based on a digital control circuit, which effectively prolongs battery lifespan and significantly improves system performance. They are equipped with comprehensive electronic protections, making the solar system more reliable and durable. These controllers are suitable for various applications, including RVs, household systems, and field monitoring.

Key Features:

• High-quality, low-failure-rate components (ST or IR) for extended service life.
• Advanced MPPT technology with a tracking efficiency higher than 99.5%.
• Advanced MPPT control algorithm to minimize lost rate and time.
• Accurate recognition and tracking of multi-peak maximum power points.
• Wider MPP running voltage to optimize PV utilization.
• Maximum DC/DC conversion efficiency of 98%.
• Support for multiple battery types, including lithium batteries.
• Equipped with a stable self-activation function for lithium batteries.
• Ability to set battery voltage parameters on the LCD.
• Battery temperature compensation.
• Charging power and current limiting to prevent exceeding rated values.
• Real-time energy statistics function.
• Automatic charging power reduction for over-temperature conditions.
• Built-in Bluetooth for settings adjustment via EPEVER APP (Tracer-AN G3 BLE series only).
• RS485 communication interface with optional 4G or Wi-Fi modules for remote monitoring.
• Standard Modbus communication protocol via RS485 bus for extended communication distance.
• Power protection chip providing 5VDC/200mA power with over-current and short-circuit protections.
• Parameters can be set via PC software, APP, or remote meter.
• Constant voltage output function.
• Comprehensive electronic protections.
• Multiple load work modes.
• Low self-consumption (lower than 10mA).
• Operation at full load without charging power reduction in the working temperature range.

Note: For Boost Charging Voltage (BCV), Float Charging Voltage (FCV), Low Voltage Disconnect Voltage (LVD), and Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage (LVR), users can modify them on the controller LCD when the battery type is "USE." The Tracer-AN G3 BLE series supports a built-in Bluetooth module. To enable constant voltage output, ensure input power exceeds output power; otherwise, the controller may intermittently enter ON-OFF state due to under-voltage protection.

2. Important Safety Instructions

Please read and reserve this manual for future reference. This manual contains safety, installation, and operation instructions for the Tracer-AN G3/Tracer-AN G3 BLE series MPPT solar controller.

• Read all instructions and warnings carefully before installation.
• The controller contains no user-serviceable components; do not disassemble or attempt repairs.
• Mount the controller indoors. Avoid exposure to components and prevent water entry.
• Install the controller in a well-ventilated area; the heat sink may become hot during operation.
• Install appropriate external fast-acting fuses/breakers.
• Disconnect PV array connections and battery fast-acting fuses/breakers before controller installation or adjustment.
• Ensure power connections remain tight to prevent excessive heating from loose connections.

3. Product Characteristics

The EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller features a clear LCD display and intuitive buttons for easy operation and monitoring.

3.1 Product Components

Note: If the remote temperature sensor is not connected or is damaged, the controller will charge or discharge the battery at the default temperature setting of 25 °C (no temperature compensation).

3.2 Naming Rules

The Tracer AN series controllers follow specific naming conventions:

• Products without Bluetooth module:
  Example: Tracer 4 2 10 AN G3
  
  • Tracer: Product series
  • 4: Rated charging & discharging current (value*10A, e.g., 4 means 40A)
  • 2: Battery rated voltage (2 means 12/24VDC)
  • 10: PV maximum open-circuit voltage (value*10V, e.g., 10 means 100V)
  • AN: Common negative system
  • G3: The 3rd generation product
• Products with built-in Bluetooth module:
  Example: Tracer 4 2 10 AN G3 BLE
  
  • Tracer: Product series
  • 4: Rated charging & discharging current (value*10A, e.g., 4 means 40A)
  • 2: Battery rated voltage (2 means 12/24VDC)
  • 10: PV maximum open-circuit voltage (value*10V, e.g., 10 means 100V)
  • AN: Common negative system
  • G3: The 3rd generation product
  • BLE: Built-in Bluetooth module

4. Installation

4.1 Attentions

• Familiarize yourself with the installation steps before proceeding.
• Do not install the controller in humid, high salt spray, corrosive, greasy, flammable, explosive, or dusty environments.
• Exercise caution when installing batteries. Wear eye protection when handling open-type lead-acid batteries and rinse with clean water immediately if battery acid contact occurs.
• Keep batteries away from metal objects to prevent short circuits.
• Ensure the surrounding environment is well-ventilated, as acid gas may be generated during battery charging.
• Avoid direct sunlight and rain infiltration when installing outdoors.
• Loose power connectors and corroded wires can generate heat, melt wire insulation, burn surrounding materials, or cause fires. Ensure tight connections and secure cables with clamps.
• Only charge lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries within the controller's specified control range.
• The battery connector can be wired to a single battery or a bank of batteries.
• Select system cables according to a current density of 5A/mm² or less.

4.2 Requirements for the PV Array

Serial Connection (String) of PV Modules

The controller must be compatible with various PV modules and maximize solar energy conversion. The serial connection of PV modules suitable for different controllers can be calculated based on the open-circuit voltage (Voc) and the maximum power point voltage (VMPP) of the MPPT controller. The following tables provide reference values:

Note: These parameters are calculated under STC (Standard Test Condition) - module temperature 25°C, air mass 1.5, irradiance 1000W/m².

PV Wire Size

Wiring and installation methods must conform to national and local electrical code requirements. The PV array's output current varies with size, connection method, and sunlight angle. The minimum wire size can be calculated using its ISC (short circuit current). Refer to the PV module's specifications for the ISC value. The PV array's ISC must not exceed the controller's maximum PV input current.

Battery and Load Wire Size

The battery and load wire sizes should conform to the rated current. The following table provides reference sizes:

4.3 Mounting

Installation procedures:

Step 1: Determine the installation location and heat-dissipation space.

Step 2: Connect the system in the order of battery → load → PV array. Disconnect the system in the reverse order.

4.4 Connection Diagram

4.5 Grounding

Tracer-AN G3/Tracer-AN G3 BLE series are common-negative controllers. Negative terminals of the PV array, battery, and load can be grounded simultaneously, or any negative terminal can be grounded. However, for practical applications, the negative terminals of the PV array, battery, and load can also be ungrounded. The grounding terminal on its shell must be grounded to shield electromagnetic interference and prevent electric shock.

4.6 Connect Accessories

Connect the temperature sensor:

• Included Accessory: RT-MF58R47K3.81A
• Optional Accessory: RTS300R47K3.81A

Connect one end of the remote temperature sensor cable to the interface and place the other end close to the battery.

Connect accessories for RS485 communication:

Step 3: Power on the controller

Connect the battery fast-acting fuse to power the controller. Check the battery indicator status (the controller operates normally when the indicator is lit green). Connect the fast-acting fuse and circuit breaker of the load and PV array. The system will then operate in preprogrammed mode.

5. Operation (LCD)

The display screen can be viewed clearly when the angle between the user's horizontal sight and the display screen is within 90°. If the angle exceeds 90°, the information may not be clearly visible.

5.1 Buttons

5.2 Interface

Status Description

Error Codes

Note: When the load current exceeds 1.02-1.05 times, 1.05-1.25 times, 1.25-1.35 times, and 1.35-1.5 times the rated value, the controller will automatically turn off the loads in 50, 30, 10, and 2 seconds respectively.

Browse Interface

Press the SELECT button to cycle through the display interfaces.

5.3 Setting

Clear the Generated Energy

Step 1: Press the ENTER button and hold for 5s under the PV-generated energy interface; the value will flash.

Step 2: Press the ENTER button to clear the generated energy.

Switch the Battery Temperature Unit

Press the button and hold for 5s under the battery temperature interface to switch the temperature unit.

Battery Type

1. Supported Battery Types:

2. Local Set the Battery Type (Operation):

Step 1: Press the SELECT button to jump to the battery voltage interface.

Step 2: Press and hold the ENTER button until the battery-type interface flashes.

Step 3: Press the SELECT button to change the battery type (e.g., Sealed, Gel, Flooded, LCNM3S, LFP8S, LFP4S, LCNM6S, LCNM7S, User).

Step 4: Press the ENTER button to confirm.

3. Remote Set the Battery Parameters:

1) Setting by PC software: Connect the controller's RJ45 port to the PC's USB interface via a USB to RS485 cable. When "USE" is selected as the battery type, voltage parameters can be set via the PC software.

2) Setting by APP: Via an external WiFi 2.4G adapter or an external Bluetooth adapter, or a built-in Bluetooth adapter (Tracer-AN G3 BLE series only). Connect the mobile phone to the adapter/controller via Bluetooth or WiFi. When "USE" is selected as the battery type, voltage parameters can be set via the APP. Refer to the cloud APP manual for details.

3) Setting by MT52 remote meter: Connect the controller to the remote meter (MT52) through a standard network cable. When "USE" is selected as the battery type, voltage parameters can be set via the MT52. Refer to the MT52 manual for details.

Load Modes

When the LCD shows the load mode interface, operate as follows:

Operation:

Step 1: Press the SELECT button to jump to the load type interface.

Step 2: Press and hold the ENTER button until the load type interface flashes.

Step 3: Press the SELECT button to modify the load type.

Step 4: Press the ENTER button to confirm.

1. Load Mode List:

2. Set Load Mode: Set the load modes via PC software, APP, or remote meter (MT50). Refer to the "Remote Set the Battery Parameters" section for detailed connection diagrams and settings.

6. Maintenance

The following inspections and maintenance tasks are recommended at least twice yearly for optimal performance:

• Ensure no obstructions block airflow around the controller. Clear any dirt and debris from the radiator.
• Check all exposed wires for damage to insulation from sun exposure, friction, dryness, insects, or rodents. Repair or replace damaged wires as necessary.
• Verify that the indicator display is consistent with actual operation. Address any troubleshooting or error conditions promptly.
• Confirm that terminals show no corrosion, insulation damage, high-temperature signs, or discoloration. Tighten terminal screws to the suggested torque.
• Clean dirt, nesting insects, and corrosion in a timely manner.
• Check and confirm that the lightning arrester is in good condition. Replace it if necessary to prevent damage to the controller and other equipment.

7. Troubleshooting

This section provides guidance for common issues and their solutions.

7.1 Protection Functions

8. Specifications

8.1 Electrical Parameters

Note: When a lithium battery is used, the system voltage isn't automatically identified.

8.2 Mechanical Parameters

9. Conversion Efficiency Curves

The following graphs illustrate the conversion efficiency of the Tracer AN series controllers under various conditions.

9.1 Tracer1206AN G3/BLE

9.2 Tracer2206AN G3/BLE

10. User Tips

• The EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller supports various battery types, including lithium-ion batteries. For optimal performance and battery longevity, ensure you select the correct battery type in the controller settings.
• A temperature sensor is typically included with the controller. This sensor is crucial for accurate charging based on ambient temperature, preventing overcharging or undercharging. Ensure it is properly connected and placed near the battery.
• The controllers are available in various current ratings (10A, 20A, 30A, 40A). Always refer to the specifications section to confirm the appropriate current rating for your specific model and system requirements.

11. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and further documentation, please refer to the official user manual PDF provided by EPEVER. The PDF contains comprehensive details on warranty terms, service procedures, and advanced troubleshooting not covered in this summary.

You can find the full user manual PDF at: EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller User Manual (PDF)