1. Introduction
The EPEVER Tracer AN Series MPPT Solar Charge Controller is designed for advanced solar power systems. It features Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology for high efficiency, ensuring optimal charging of your battery bank from solar panels. This controller supports 12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V auto-identifying system voltages and is compatible with various battery types including Sealed, Gel, Flooded, and User-defined. It includes a remote meter (MT50), temperature sensor (RTS), and PC communication cable (RS485) for comprehensive monitoring and parameter setting.
Figure 1: EPEVER Tracer AN Series 80A MPPT Solar Charge Controller and accessories.
2. Product Features and Overview
The Tracer AN series controller incorporates advanced MPPT technology with ultra-fast tracking speed, achieving tracking efficiency no less than 99.5%. It utilizes high-quality components from ST and Infineon for enhanced product longevity. The adaptive three-stage charging mode, based on a digital control circuit, effectively prolongs battery life and improves system performance. Key features include:
- Advanced MPPT technology with ≥99.5% tracking efficiency.
- Support for 12V/24V/36V/48V auto-identifying system voltage.
- Adaptive three-stage charging mode for extended battery life.
- Auto control system to limit charging power and current.
- Wide range of maximum power point operating voltage.
- Support for 4 charging options: Sealed, Gel, Flooded, and User.
- Standard Modbus communication protocol with RS485 interface.
- Dual RS485 ports (RJ45 Connector) for system expansion (up to 8 units in parallel).
Figure 2: Detailed view of the controller's terminals and indicators, including PV terminals, battery terminals, load control relay, RBVS port, generator relay, fuse, RS485 port, RTS port, and grounding terminal.
Figure 3: Close-up of the LCD display and control buttons (Select, Enter) on the EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller.
Figure 4: The controller features an aluminum alloy material for good heat dissipation, ensuring stable operation.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your solar charge controller. Always ensure all power sources are disconnected before making any connections.
3.1 Wiring Diagram
Figure 5: Typical wiring diagram for the EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller in a solar power system, connecting to solar panels, battery, inverter, and various loads like a washing machine, fan, and TV.
3.2 Connection Steps
- Connect the Battery: Connect the battery to the controller's battery terminals (positive and negative). Ensure correct polarity.
- Connect the Solar Panel: Connect the solar panel to the controller's PV terminals (positive and negative). Ensure correct polarity.
- Connect the Load: Connect your DC loads to the controller's load terminals (positive and negative).
- Connect Accessories: Connect the MT50 remote meter, RTS temperature sensor, and RS485 communication cable as needed to their respective ports.
- Grounding: Ensure the controller is properly grounded using the grounding terminal.
Important: Always connect the battery first, then the solar panel, and finally the load. When disconnecting, reverse the order: disconnect the load, then the solar panel, and finally the battery.
Video 1: Unboxing and Installation Guide for EPEVER Tracer AN Series MPPT Controller. This video demonstrates the physical unboxing, identification of components, and step-by-step installation process for the solar charge controller, including connections for battery, solar panel, and accessories like the MT50 remote meter.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Operation via Controller LCD
The controller features an LCD display and two buttons (SELECT and ENTER) for monitoring system status and adjusting parameters. Use the SELECT button to navigate through different display interfaces and the ENTER button to confirm selections or enter parameter settings.
- Monitoring: Press SELECT to cycle through various parameters like battery voltage, PV voltage, charging current, load status, etc.
- Battery Type Setting: From the battery voltage interface, long-press ENTER to enter the battery type setting. Use SELECT to choose the desired battery type (Sealed, Gel, Flooded, User) and then press ENTER to save.
- Load Working Mode: Navigate to the load working mode interface. Long-press ENTER to adjust the load control settings (e.g., Light ON/OFF, Light ON+Timer, Manual Control). Refer to the detailed load working mode table in the full manual for specific codes.
4.2 MT50 Remote Meter Operation
The MT50 remote meter provides a comprehensive interface for monitoring and setting controller parameters. It connects via the RS485 port.
- Monitoring: The MT50 displays real-time data for PV, battery, and load.
- Parameter Setting: Use the navigation buttons on the MT50 to access menus such as 'Control Para.' to adjust battery type, charging voltages (Boost Charge, Float Charge), discharge limits, and load working modes.
- Custom Parameters: For advanced customization of battery voltage control parameters, select 'User' battery type on the MT50.
Figure 6: The MT50 Remote Meter offers a wide LCD screen for monitoring and setting parameters, automatically identifying data from solar controllers and providing longer communication distance via RS485.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your solar charge controller.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically check for loose connections, damaged wiring, or signs of overheating.
- Cleanliness: Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris. Ensure the heat sink fins are not obstructed to allow for proper cooling.
- Firmware Updates: Check the EPEVER website for any available firmware updates to ensure your controller has the latest features and bug fixes.
- Battery Health: Monitor battery voltage and health regularly. Ensure battery terminals are clean and tight.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your controller, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Display/Power: Check battery connections and voltage. Ensure the fuse is intact.
- No Charging: Verify solar panel connections and ensure sufficient sunlight. Check PV voltage.
- Load Not Working: Check load connections and ensure the load is enabled in the controller settings (e.g., via MT50 or controller LCD).
- Error Codes: Refer to the full user manual for a list of specific error codes and their corresponding solutions.
- Incorrect Voltage Readings: Ensure all connections are secure and the remote temperature sensor (RTS) is properly connected and functioning.
7. Specifications
Below are the key technical specifications for the EPEVER Tracer AN Series MPPT Solar Charge Controller (Model 8415AN):
Figure 7: Comprehensive table of technical parameters for Tracer AN series models, including nominal system voltage, battery input voltage range, battery type, rated charge current, rated charge power, max PV open circuit voltage, MPP voltage range, tracking efficiency, max conversion efficiency, full load efficiency, temperature compensate coefficient, self-consumption, grounding, RS485 interface, LCD backlight time, ambient temperature range, mounting hole size, and enclosure rating.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | Tracer8415AN |
| Nominal System Voltage | 12V/24V/36V/48VDC Auto |
| Battery Input Voltage Range | 8V ~ 68V |
| Battery Type | Sealed (Default), Gel, Flooded, User |
| Rated Charge Current | 80A |
| Max. PV Open Circuit Voltage | 150V |
| Tracking Efficiency | ≥99.5% |
| Max. Conversion Efficiency | 98.50% |
| Enclosure | IP20 |
| Item Weight | 16.56 pounds (7.53 Kilograms) |
| Package Dimensions | 19.45 x 13.39 x 9.53 inches |
8. Application
The EPEVER Tracer AN Series MPPT Solar Charge Controller is versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Solar RV systems
- Household solar power systems
- Field monitoring stations
- Off-grid cabins and remote power solutions
- Solar street lighting
Figure 8: Various application examples for the EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller, demonstrating its use in residential, recreational vehicle (RV), and public lighting setups.
9. Dimensions
The physical dimensions of the controller are provided below for installation planning.
Figure 9: Dimensions of the EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller: 394 mm (length) x 240 mm (width) x 134 mm (height).
10. Accessories
The EPEVER Tracer AN Series 80A MPPT Solar Charge Controller comes bundled with essential accessories to enhance its functionality and ease of use:
- MT50 Remote Meter: A wide LCD screen display used for monitoring and setting controller parameters. It automatically identifies parameter data of solar controllers and offers longer communication distance based on RS485.
- RTS (Remote Temperature Sensor): Acquires battery temperature for undertaking temperature compensation of control parameters. The standard length of the cable is 3m.
- RS485 Communication Cable: A USB to RS485 converter cable (CC-USB-RS485-150U) used to monitor or set parameters by using PC software. The length of the cable is 1.5m.
Figure 10: The EPEVER Tracer AN Series MPPT Solar Charge Controller shown with its included MT50 remote meter, RTS temperature sensor, and RS485 communication cable.
11. Warranty and Support
EPEVER products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty details, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official EPEVER website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or service inquiries, please contact EPEVER customer service through their official channels. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
