1. Introduction
The ANERN MPPT Solar Charge Controller is a multi-level Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) photovoltaic battery charge controller designed for efficient solar energy management. Utilizing advanced MPPT technology, this controller can significantly improve the control accuracy and increase the output power of your solar panel by 5% to 30% compared to traditional PWM controllers. It automatically recognizes 12V/24V systems and supports various battery types, making it a versatile solution for diverse solar power applications.
2. Product Overview
2.1 Product Appearance and Components
| No. | Component |
|---|---|
| 1 | LCD screen |
| 2 | Temperature sensor interface |
| 3 | Photovoltaic array terminals |
| 4 | Battery terminals |
| 5 | Load terminals |
| 6 | RJ45 communication interface |
| 7 | Button (Up/Menu) |
| 8 | Button (Down/Enter) |
| 9 | USB OUTPUT |
Notice: If the remote temperature sensor is not connected, the controller will compensate charging parameters by 25°C for the battery temperature.
2.2 Key Features
- Adjustable Parameters: Allows customization of various charging and discharge parameters.
- Flame Retardant Enclosure: Features a Class V-0 flame retardant casing for enhanced safety.
- Comprehensive Protections: Includes multiple protection mechanisms for safe operation.
- Adaptive Battery Type: Compatible with a wide range of battery types (see Section 4.2).
- Temperature Compensation: Automatically adjusts charging parameters based on battery temperature.
- Communication Options: Supports RS485, RJ45, and optional Bluetooth for monitoring and control.
2.3 Application Scenarios
This MPPT solar charge controller is suitable for a variety of off-grid solar power systems, including:
- Daily household power supply systems
- Marine applications (Yachts)
- Road construction lighting and power
- Recreational Vehicles (RVs)
- General solar power systems
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your solar charge controller. Please follow these steps carefully.
3.1 System Diagram and Wiring
Refer to the system diagram above for a visual representation of the connections.
- Connect the Battery: Connect the battery to the battery terminals (4) on the controller. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). It is highly recommended to install a fuse on the positive battery line.
- Connect the Load: Connect the DC load to the load terminals (5) on the controller. Ensure correct polarity. A fuse should also be installed on the positive load line.
- Connect the PV Array: Connect the solar panel (PV array) to the photovoltaic array terminals (3) on the controller. Ensure correct polarity. An appropriate breaker should be installed between the PV array and the controller.
- Connect Inverter (Optional): If using an inverter, connect it to the battery terminals or a separate distribution block connected to the battery, ensuring proper fusing and grounding. The diagram shows an inverter connected to the AC output, which implies it's an AC load, but typically inverters connect directly to the battery bank. For DC loads, connect to the load terminals.
- Temperature Sensor (Optional): If using an external temperature sensor, connect it to the temperature sensor interface (2).
- Communication Interface (Optional): For remote monitoring or control, connect RS485/RJ45 cables to interface (6) or use the optional Bluetooth module.
Important Safety Note: Always connect the battery first, then the load, and finally the solar panel. Disconnect in the reverse order: solar panel, then load, then battery. Ensure all connections are tight and secure.
3.2 Battery Type Selection
The controller is adaptive to different battery types. You must select the correct battery type in the controller's settings to ensure optimal charging and prolong battery life. Supported types include:
- Sealed Lead-Acid (SLD)
- Flooded Lead-Acid (FLD)
- GEL
- Lithium (LiFePO4, Li(NiCoMn)O2)
- User-defined (USR) for custom parameters
4. Operation
4.1 LCD Display and Navigation
The LCD screen (1) displays real-time system information, including battery voltage, charging current, discharge current, and various operational parameters. Use the buttons (7) and (8) to navigate through the menus and adjust settings.
- Up/Menu Button (7): Short press to cycle through display screens. Long press to enter or exit the menu for parameter settings.
- Down/Enter Button (8): Short press to cycle through display screens or decrease a value. Long press to confirm a setting or enter a sub-menu.
4.2 Parameter Settings
To adjust parameters such as battery type, charging voltages (equalized, absorption, float), LVR, LVD, HVD, and light control voltage, long-press the Menu button (7) to enter the settings menu. Navigate using the Up (7) and Down (8) buttons, and confirm selections with a long press of the Down button (8). Refer to the "Product Parameters" table in Section 5 for default values and ranges.
4.3 Communication Features
The controller offers various communication interfaces for remote monitoring and data management:
- RS485/RJ45: Connect to a computer or other monitoring devices using the RJ45 communication interface (6).
- Bluetooth (Optional): For models with Bluetooth functionality, you can connect to a mobile application for wireless monitoring and parameter adjustment.
5. Specifications
5.1 General Specifications
- Is Smart Device: Yes
- Origin: Mainland China
- Certification: CE, RoHS
- Dimensions:
- 10-20A Models: 175mm * 147mm * 47mm
- 30-40A Models: 215mm * 145mm * 75mm
- 50-60A Models: 260mm * 190mm * 85mm
5.2 Electrical Parameters
| Parameter | Value | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rated charge current | 10A | 20A | 30A | 40A | 50A | 60A |
| Input | ||||||
| Max open voltage of solar panel | 100V (at the lowest temperature), 92V (at a standard temperature of 25°C) | |||||
| System rated voltage | 12V/24V Auto recognized | |||||
| Maximum battery voltage | 8V-32V | |||||
| Maximum input power | 130W (12V) 260W (24V) | 260W (12V) 520W (24V) | 390W (12V) 780W (24V) | 520W (12V) 1040W (24V) | 650W (12V) 1300W (24V) | 780W (12V) 1560W (24V) |
| Output | ||||||
| Battery type | User default, Sealed, Flooded, GEL, LiFePO4, Li(NiCoMn)O2, Maintenance-free lead-acid | |||||
| Equalized charging voltage | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery: 14.6V, GEL: No, Lead-acid Flooded battery: 14.8V (Duration: 2 hours) | |||||
| Absorption charging voltage | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery: 14.4V, GEL: 14.2V, Lead-acid Flooded battery: 14.6V (Duration: 2 hours) | |||||
| Float charging voltage | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery, GEL, lead-acid Flooded battery: 13.8V | |||||
| LVR (Low Voltage Reconnect) | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery, GEL, lead-acid Flooded battery: 12.6V | |||||
| LVD (Low Voltage Disconnect) | Maintenance-free lead-acid battery, GEL, lead-acid Flooded battery: 10.8V | |||||
| Static loss | ≤ 50mA | |||||
| HVD (High Voltage Disconnect) | Lead acid battery 16V | |||||
| Light control voltage | 5V/10V/15V/20V | |||||
| Temperature compensation coefficient | -4mV/°C/2V (25°C) | |||||
| Discharge loop voltage drop | ≤ 0.2V | |||||
| LCD temperature | -20°C ~ +70°C | |||||
| Operating temperature | -20°C ~ +55°C | |||||
| Storage temperature | -30°C ~ +80°C | |||||
| Working humidity | ≤ 90%, No condensation | |||||
| Protection class | IP30 | |||||
| Grounded type | Positive grounded | |||||
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your ANERN MPPT Solar Charge Controller.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically check the controller for any signs of damage, loose connections, or corrosion.
- Cleanliness: Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry cloth for cleaning. Ensure ventilation openings are not blocked.
- Connection Checks: Verify that all wiring connections (PV, battery, load) are secure and tight. Loose connections can cause overheating and poor performance.
- Battery Health: Monitor your battery's health and ensure it is within its recommended operating parameters. The controller relies on accurate battery voltage readings.
- Firmware Updates: If available, check the manufacturer's website for any firmware updates that might improve performance or add features.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your solar charge controller.
- Q: The LCD display is off or shows no power.
- A: Check the battery connections. Ensure the battery is connected with correct polarity and has sufficient voltage (above 8V). Verify that the battery fuse is intact.
- Q: The battery is not charging from the solar panels.
- A:
- Check PV array connections and polarity.
- Ensure the solar panel breaker is not tripped.
- Verify that the solar panel voltage is within the controller's input range (Max open voltage 100V).
- Check for sufficient sunlight.
- Confirm the battery type setting on the controller matches your battery.
- Q: The load is not receiving power.
- A:
- Check load connections and polarity.
- Ensure the load fuse is intact.
- Verify that the battery voltage is above the Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) setting. The controller will disconnect the load to protect the battery if voltage is too low.
- Check load settings on the controller (e.g., light control mode).
- Q: Charging current is lower than expected.
- A:
- Check for shading on solar panels.
- Ensure solar panels are clean.
- Verify all connections are secure and free of corrosion.
- Confirm the battery is not already fully charged or near full capacity.
- Check the ambient temperature; extreme temperatures can affect performance.
7.1 User Tips
- For optimal performance, ensure the controller is installed in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Always use appropriately sized wiring for your system to minimize voltage drop and maximize efficiency.
- If using the optional Bluetooth module, ensure it is within range of your monitoring device for stable connection.
- Periodically check the temperature sensor connection to ensure accurate battery temperature compensation.
8. Warranty and 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.
