1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ATEM POWER 12V 24V 10A MPPT Solar Charge Controller. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper function and safety.
The ATEM POWER MPPT Solar Charge Controller is designed to efficiently manage power from your solar panels to charge various battery types, including 12V and 24V lead acid, AGM, Gel, calcium, and LiFePO4 batteries. Its advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology ensures optimal energy harvest from your solar array, making it ideal for off-grid and mobile power solutions.
2. Safety Information
⚠ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Ensure all connections are secure and correct before operation. Loose connections can cause overheating and damage.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the controller yourself. Refer to qualified personnel for service.
- Install the controller in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials, corrosive gases, and direct sunlight.
- Always connect the battery to the controller first, then the solar panel. Disconnect in the reverse order: solar panel first, then battery.
- Verify battery voltage and type settings match your battery system to prevent overcharging or undercharging.
- Avoid short-circuiting the solar panel or battery terminals.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- 1 x ATEM POWER 12V 24V 10A MPPT Solar Charge Controller
- 1 x Polarity Reverse Adapter
- 2 x MC4 Male Connectors
- 2 x MC4 Female Connectors
- 4 x Crimp Contacts
- 2 x Terminal Blocks
4. Product Overview and Features
The ATEM POWER MPPT Solar Charge Controller is a compact and efficient device designed for various solar charging applications. Key features include:
- Plug & Play Design: Simplifies installation and reduces setup time, allowing for quick deployment.
- Multi-Chemistry Compatibility: Supports a wide range of 12V/24V batteries including Lead Acid, AGM, Gel, Calcium, and LiFePO4, offering flexibility for different power systems.
- Advanced Stage Charging: Utilizes pre-charge (soft start), boost, absorption (peak amps), and float (minimal ampere) stages for optimized battery health, extended lifespan, and consistent performance.
- Lithium Battery Activation: Features a dedicated mode for activating and charging deeply discharged LiFePO4 batteries, bringing them back to operational status.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for a broad spectrum of uses including off-grid cabins, homes, RVs, boats, vans, caravans, trailers, workshops, telecommunications, and remote site backup.
5. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps for safe and correct installation:
- Mounting: Choose a dry, well-ventilated location for the controller, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit to prevent overheating.
- Battery Connection:
- First, connect the battery to the controller's battery terminals. Ensure correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative).
- The controller will automatically detect 12V or 24V battery voltage upon connection.
- Solar Panel Connection:
- After connecting the battery, connect your solar panel(s) to the controller's solar input terminals.
- Ensure the solar panel's open circuit voltage does not exceed 46V.
- Use the provided MC4 connectors or polarity reverse adapter as needed for your solar panel connection.
- Load Connection (Optional): If your controller has a load output, connect your DC loads to these terminals. Ensure the total load current does not exceed 10A.
Important Wiring Order:
- Connect Battery
- Connect Solar Panel
- Connect Load (if applicable)
Disconnection Order:
- Disconnect Load (if applicable)
- Disconnect Solar Panel
- Disconnect Battery
6. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the controller operates largely automatically. However, you need to select the correct battery type for optimal charging.
6.1 Battery Type Selection
The controller supports multiple battery chemistries. To select the correct battery type:
- Observe the LED indicators on the controller.
- Press the "BATTERY TYPE" button (if present, or refer to the specific model's interface) to cycle through the battery types.
- Match the illuminated LED color to your battery type:
- White: Lead Acid
- Red: AGM/Gel
- Blue: Calcium
- Green: LiFePO4
6.2 Lithium Battery Activation
If you are using a LiFePO4 battery that requires activation (e.g., after being deeply discharged), follow these steps:
- Ensure the controller is correctly connected to the LiFePO4 battery and a solar panel.
- Select the "Green" LED indicator for LiFePO4 battery type using the battery type selection method.
- The controller will then initiate the activation process, which helps to restore the battery's functionality.
7. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your solar charge controller, perform the following maintenance tasks:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check all wiring and connections for tightness, signs of wear, or corrosion. Tighten any loose connections.
- Cleanliness: Keep the controller clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Ventilation: Ensure the installation area remains well-ventilated and that the controller's heat sinks (if any) are not obstructed to prevent overheating.
- Environmental Check: Verify that the operating environment is consistently within the specified temperature and humidity ranges to avoid damage.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your solar charge controller, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No charging current |
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| Battery not fully charged |
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| Controller overheating |
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| LED indicators not working |
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9. Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AP10MT |
| Type | MPPT |
| Application | Camping Solar Charge Control |
| Product Dimension | 98mm x 55mm x 25mm |
| Battery Voltage Range | 12V/24V (Auto-sensing) |
| Max. PV Open Circuit Voltage | 46V |
| Max. Solar Input Voltage | 46V |
| Rated Charge Current | 10A |
| Rated Discharge Current | 10A |
| Max. PV Power | 250W |
| Self Consumption | 7.05mA |
| No Load Current | <10mA |
| Tracking Efficiency | 99% |
| Conversion Efficiency | 95% |
| Operation Temperature | -10℃ to 45℃ |
| Storage Temperature | -20℃ to 65℃ |
| Relative Humidity | 40%~95% (no condensation) |
| Certificate | CE |
| Origin | Mainland China, Zhejiang |
10. User Tips
- For optimal performance, ensure your solar panel's maximum power point voltage (Vmp) is sufficiently higher than your battery's current voltage, especially for 24V systems, to allow the MPPT controller to operate efficiently.
- When connecting to a LiFePO4 battery, always confirm the "Green" LED is active to ensure proper charging parameters are applied and to utilize the activation feature if needed.
- Consider using appropriate fuses on both the battery and solar panel lines for added protection against overcurrents and short circuits.
- Regularly monitor your battery's state of charge and the controller's indicators to understand your system's performance and identify any potential issues early.
- Keep the controller's connections clean and tight to prevent voltage drops and ensure efficient power transfer.
11. Warranty and Support
This ATEM POWER MPPT Solar Charge Controller comes with a 1-Year Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service conditions.
For technical support, warranty claims, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Please have your model number (AP10MT) and purchase details ready when contacting support to expedite the process.
