1. Introduction
The PowMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller is an advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) device designed to efficiently manage power flow from your solar panels to your battery bank. It is compatible with 12V and 24V battery systems and offers various charging current options (25A, 35A, 45A) to suit different solar energy storage needs. This manual provides essential information for safe installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your solar charge controller.
Figure 1: Front view of the PowMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller with LCD display.
2. Key Features
- Adaptive Charging Logic: Integrated charging modes suitable for most battery types, including flooded lead-acid, sealed gel, and lithium batteries.
- System Voltage Compatibility: Compatible with both 12V and 24V system voltages.
- Multiple Charging Current Options: Available in 25A, 35A, and 45A charging current models to meet diverse solar energy storage system requirements.
- Multi-Stage Charging Algorithm: Optimizes each charging cycle, maintaining battery charge through preset parameters for specific stages once the battery is fully charged.
- Advanced MPPT Technology: Tracks the maximum power point voltage (Vmp) of the solar array, ensuring maximum power collection regardless of weather conditions.
- High Efficiency: Innovative MPPT technology boasts a tracking efficiency of up to 99.9% and a peak conversion efficiency of up to 97%, leading to reduced power consumption, heat generation, and operating temperature.
- Adaptive Boost Charging: During initial charging, the controller monitors battery response to automatically determine the appropriate boost stage duration, ensuring full charge without overcharging and extending battery life.
- Built-in Temperature Sensor: For accurate temperature compensation during charging.
- Lithium Battery Activation Function: Supports activation of lithium batteries.
- Multiple Protection Features: Ensures safe and reliable operation of the system.
3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | POW-M25-PRO | POW-M35-PRO | POW-M45-PRO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Input Parameters | |||
| Max. PV Open-Circuit Voltage | 100V | ||
| Max. Input Power (12V System) | 300W | 420W | 540W |
| Max. Input Power (24V System) | 600W | 840W | 1080W |
| Input Voltage Range (12V System) | <60V | <80V | <100V |
| Input Voltage Range (24V System) | <60V | <80V | <100V |
| Battery Charging Parameters | |||
| Charging Technology | MPPT | ||
| Charging Algorithm | 3 Stages | ||
| Nominal System Voltage | 12V/24V | ||
| Battery Voltage Range | 9~30V | ||
| Rated Charging Current | 25A | 35A | 45A |
| Conversion Efficiency | ≤98% | ||
| Max. Power Point Tracking Efficiency | >99% | ||
| Temperature Compensation | -3mV/℃/2V (default) | ||
| Self-Consumption | 44mA/12V; 26mA/24V | ||
| DC Output Parameters | |||
| Rated DC Output Current | 15A | 20A | 25A |
| General Parameters | |||
| IP Class | IP32 | ||
| Operating Temperature Range | -35℃~+45℃ | ||
| Humidity Range | ≤95% Non-condensing | ||
| Altitude | <3000m | ||
| Dimensions | 160x115x51mm | 195x135x65mm | |
| Net Weight | 500g | 900g | 1035g |
Table 1: PowMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller Specifications.
4. Safety Information
Please read all instructions and warnings carefully before installation and operation. Keep this manual for future reference.
- 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 panels, and finally the DC load. Disconnect in the reverse order.
- Do not attempt to repair or modify the controller yourself. Refer to qualified personnel for service.
- Install the controller in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials and direct sunlight.
- Ensure the system voltage matches the controller's specifications (12V/24V).
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during installation, including safety glasses and insulated gloves.
5. Installation Guide
The PowMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller is designed for easy installation. Follow these steps carefully:
- Mounting the Controller: Choose a suitable location for mounting the controller. It should be a dry, well-ventilated area, protected from direct sunlight and moisture. Use appropriate screws to secure the controller to a flat surface. The user-friendly design ensures easy and quick installation.
- Connecting the Battery: Connect the battery cables to the controller's battery terminals. Ensure correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative). This is the first connection to make.
- Connecting the DC Load: Connect your DC load (e.g., lights, appliances) to the controller's load terminals. Ensure correct polarity.
- Connecting the PV Array: Connect the solar panel (PV) array cables to the controller's PV terminals. Ensure correct polarity. The controller can connect to a photovoltaic array with a maximum input of 100V and 1080W (for the 45A model).
- Reassemble the Port Cover: Once all connections are made, securely reassemble the port cover to protect the terminals.
- Starting Up the Controller: After all connections are secure, activate the system by turning on the battery and PV array. The controller will power on and begin operation.
Video 1: Installation and overview of PowMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller models.
Figure 2: Schematic Wiring Diagram for connecting the system. Connect in order: 1. battery, 2. load, 3. PV array. Disconnect in reverse order.
Figure 3: Example system setup with solar panels, controller, and batteries.
6. Operation
The controller features an intuitive LCD screen and control buttons for easy monitoring and configuration.
6.1. LCD Display and Working Modes
The backlit LCD screen provides real-time information about the system status. The main working modes displayed are:
- 3.0 - Night mode: No charging is occurring.
- 4.0 - MPPT Charging Mode: The controller is actively tracking the maximum power point of the solar panels to charge the battery.
- 7.0 - Boost Charging Mode: A higher voltage is applied to the battery to ensure a full charge and equalize cells if necessary.
- 8.0 - Floating Charge mode: The battery is fully charged, and the controller maintains a constant voltage to prevent self-discharge.
Figure 4: LCD screen showing working modes and system parameters.
6.2. Load Work Modes
The controller supports multiple load work modes, which can be configured via the settings:
- 00H (Load Turn OFF): The DC load output is always off.
- 24H (Load always Turn ON): The DC load output is always on.
- 01H~23H (Time control): The DC load output is controlled by a timer, turning on for a specified duration (1 to 23 hours).
Figure 5: Illustration of different load work modes.
7. Battery Type Configuration
The controller is compatible with various battery types. To configure the battery type:
- Long press the "BAT/▲" key to enter the setting program.
- Use the "BAT/▲" and "DC/▼" keys to toggle through the battery type options (Vented, Sealed, Gel, NiCd, Lithium).
- Press the "SET/⚙" key to save and confirm your selection.
- If you select "User-defined" battery type, you can proceed with setting the following battery parameters as per your battery manufacturer's recommendations.
Figure 6: Battery compatibility and setting options.
8. Troubleshooting
The controller's LCD screen displays error codes to help diagnose issues. Refer to the table below for common fault codes and their solutions:
| Fault Code | Fault Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | Input photovoltaic voltage too low | Increase the number of solar panels or connect them in series to raise the photovoltaic input voltage. |
| 60 | Overtemperature protection | Allow the equipment to cool to below the recovery temperature to resume normal charging and discharging. |
| 63 | Battery voltage too high | Measure to confirm if battery voltage exceeds rated voltage and disconnect photovoltaic array circuit breaker. |
| 65 | Battery voltage too low | Charge the battery until voltage exceeds the undervoltage recovery point. Refer to '3.7 Default Parameters for Different Battery Types' for specific details. |
| 71 | Input photovoltaic voltage too high | Reduce the number of photovoltaic arrays connected to the controller or adjust series and parallel connections to reduce voltage or current values. |
| 73 | Overcharging current | Reduce output terminal load to ensure total load is within rated limits of the controller and battery. |
| 72 | Overdischarging current | Reduce output terminal load to ensure total load is within rated limits of the controller and battery. |
Table 2: Common Fault Codes and Solutions.
9. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your solar charge controller:
- Cleanliness: Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
- Connections: Periodically check all wiring connections for tightness and corrosion. Loose connections can cause overheating and damage.
- Ventilation: Ensure the installation area remains well-ventilated to prevent overheating, especially around the heat sink fins on the back of the unit.
- Firmware Updates: Check the manufacturer's website for any available firmware updates to ensure your controller has the latest features and bug fixes.
10. User Tips
- PV Panel Voltage: Ensure your solar panel's open-circuit voltage (Voc) does not exceed the controller's maximum PV input voltage (100V) to prevent damage. For example, a 40V panel can be connected to a 12V battery system via this controller.
- Battery Configuration: Always double-check your battery type settings to match your actual battery chemistry (e.g., LiFePO4, Gel, Sealed). Incorrect settings can lead to improper charging and reduced battery lifespan.
- Wiring Sequence: Strictly follow the connection sequence (Battery -> Load -> PV Array) during installation and the reverse sequence during disconnection to avoid potential damage.
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Can I connect a 12V battery and a 40V solar panel to this controller?
- A: Yes, the controller supports 12V/24V battery systems, and the maximum PV open-circuit voltage is 100V. A 40V panel is well within this limit.
- Q: Is this an MPPT controller?
- A: Yes, this is an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar charge controller, designed for high efficiency.
- Q: Why can't I configure the controller?
- A: Ensure you are following the correct procedure for entering the setting program (long press the "BAT/▲" key) and saving changes. Refer to Section 7 for detailed instructions on battery type configuration. If the issue persists, check for any error codes on the LCD display.
- Q: Does this controller have Bluetooth connectivity?
- A: No, this model does not feature Bluetooth connectivity based on the provided specifications.
12. Warranty and Support
The PowMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller comes with a 1-year warranty. For technical support, warranty claims, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the official PowMr customer service. Please have your product model and purchase date available when contacting support.