SolaMr CM50A 50A 180V MPPT Solar Charge Controller Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The SolaMr CM50A MPPT Solar Charge Controller is designed to efficiently manage power from your solar panels to charge various battery types. This controller utilizes Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to optimize energy harvest, outperforming traditional PWM models by 25%-30% with a peak tracking efficiency of 99.9%.

The CM50A model features a rated charging current of 50A and supports 12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V systems. It can handle a maximum solar input of 600W (12V), 1200W (24V), 1800W (36V), and 2400W (48V), with a maximum input voltage of 180V. This makes it suitable for small to medium-sized RVs, camping setups, and marine applications.

Figure 1: Front view of the SolaMr CM50A MPPT Solar Charge Controller.

2. Key Features

• High Efficiency MPPT Tracking: Achieves up to 99.9% tracking efficiency for maximum solar energy extraction.
• Smart Auto-Recognition & 5 Battery Modes: Automatically detects 12V/24V/36V/48V system voltage and supports USE, FLD (Flooded), GEL, SLD (Sealed), and Li (Lithium/LiFePO4) battery types. Customizable charging parameters are available for USER/Li modes.
• Full Protection System: Integrates 8 comprehensive protection functions including Short Circuit, Over Discharge, Overcharge, Overcurrent, Open Circuit, Reverse Connection, Over Temperature, and TVS lightning protection.
• Rugged All-Weather Design with Clear LCD: Operates reliably in temperatures from -10°C to +65°C. Features a robust metal casing, dual high-speed fans for heat dissipation, and a bright LCD for real-time data, battery status, and fault alerts.
• Smart Load Management with 3 Modes: Offers Light Control (auto on/off at dusk/dawn), 24H Always-On, and Manual modes for DC device management, including Low Voltage Disconnect protection.
• Practical Design with 0V Lithium Charging: Includes 0V activation for lithium batteries, high-power magnetic rings, and large capacitors for stable performance.

Figure 2: The 8 comprehensive protection features of the controller.

3. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps for proper installation of your SolaMr CM50A MPPT Solar Charge Controller. Ensure all power sources are disconnected before making any connections.

1. Mounting: Choose a safe, dry, and well-ventilated location for the controller. Avoid direct sunlight. Securely mount the controller to a flat surface.
2. Battery Connection: Connect the battery cables to the controller's battery terminals. Ensure correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative). This connection should be made first.
3. Solar Panel Connection: Connect the solar panel cables to the controller's PV input terminals. Ensure correct polarity.
4. DC Load Connection (Optional): If using a DC load directly from the controller, connect the load cables to the DC load terminals. Ensure correct polarity.
5. Inverter Connection (Optional): If using an inverter for AC loads, connect the inverter to the battery bank, not directly to the controller's load terminals.

Figure 3: Basic wiring diagram showing connections for solar panels, battery, and DC load.

4. Operating Instructions

The SolaMr CM50A features an intuitive LCD display and control buttons for easy operation and monitoring.

4.1 LCD Display Overview

The LCD screen provides real-time data and status indicators:

Figure 4: Detailed view of the LCD main interface display.

• PV (Photovoltaic): Displays solar panel voltage, current, and power generation.
• BATT (Battery): Shows battery voltage, charge status (percentage), and temperature.
• LOAD: Indicates load current and power consumption.
• Indicators: Icons for daytime/nighttime, solar panel activity, charging status, battery status, discharging status, load status, temperature, fault alerts, and selected battery type (USE, FLD, GEL, SLD, LI).

4.2 Button Functions

• ESC: Exits the current menu or setting.
• UP (▲): Navigates up through menu options or increases parameter values.
• DOWN (▼): Navigates down through menu options or decreases parameter values.
• SET/ENTER: Enters a menu, confirms a selection, or saves a setting.

4.3 Battery Type and Charging Parameter Settings

The controller automatically detects system voltage. To select or customize battery types and charging parameters:

1. Press the SET/ENTER button to enter the main settings menu.
2. Use the UP (▲) or DOWN (▼) buttons to navigate to the battery type setting.
3. Press SET/ENTER to select the desired battery type (FLD, GEL, SLD, LI, USE).
4. For 'LI' (Lithium) or 'USE' (User-defined) modes, you can further customize charging parameters like Floating Voltage. Refer to your battery manufacturer's specifications for optimal settings.
5. Press SET/ENTER to confirm and save changes.

4.4 Load Management Modes

The controller offers three load working modes:

• Light Control: Automatically turns the load ON at dusk and OFF at dawn.
• 24H Always-On: Provides continuous power to the load.
• Manual Mode: Allows manual control (ON/OFF) of the load.

To change the load mode, navigate to the load settings in the menu using the SET/ENTER and arrow buttons.

5. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your SolaMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller, regular maintenance is recommended:

• Inspect Connections: Periodically check all wiring connections (battery, solar panel, load) to ensure they are tight and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to power loss or overheating.
• Clean Controller: Keep the controller's exterior clean and free from dust and debris. Ensure the dual high-speed fans and ventilation openings are unobstructed to maintain proper heat dissipation.
• Environmental Check: Verify that the installation environment remains within the specified operating temperature range (-10°C to +65°C) and is protected from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Battery Health: Monitor your battery's health and performance regularly. Ensure battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion.

Figure 5: Internal structure of the SolaMr MPPT Solar Charge Controller, highlighting cooling features.

6. Troubleshooting

The SolaMr CM50A is equipped with a comprehensive protection system and fault alerts displayed on the LCD. If you encounter issues, check the following:

• No Display/Power: Ensure battery connections are secure and correctly polarized. Check battery voltage to confirm it's within the operating range.
• No Charging: Verify solar panel connections and polarity. Check solar panel voltage (PV) on the LCD to ensure it's sufficient for charging. Ensure there is adequate sunlight.
• Fault Alerts on LCD: The controller will display specific fault codes or symbols for issues like overcurrent, overvoltage, short circuit, or over-temperature. Refer to the detailed manual for specific fault code interpretations and corrective actions.
• Overheating: Ensure the controller is installed in a well-ventilated area and that the cooling fans are not obstructed. Clean any dust or debris from the fans and heat sinks.
• Incorrect Voltage/Amperage Readings: Double-check all wiring for correct gauge and secure connections. Ensure the correct battery type is selected in the settings.

If issues persist after basic troubleshooting, contact SolaMr professional after-sales support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

SolaMr provides professional after-sales support for your MPPT Solar Charge Controller. For any questions regarding system sizing, wiring, troubleshooting, or other concerns, please contact SolaMr customer service. Our team is committed to responding promptly and ensuring your satisfaction with the product.