EPEVER Tracer-BN Series MPPT Solar Charge Controller
User Manual
Models: Tracer1215BN/Tracer2215BN, Tracer3215BN/Tracer4215BN
Important Safety Instructions
Please reserve this manual for future review. This manual contains all instructions of safety, installation and operation for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller in Tracer-BN series ("the controller" is referred in this manual).
General Safety Information
- Read carefully all the instructions and warnings in the manual before installation.
- No user serviceable component inside controller. DO NOT disassemble or attempt to repair the controller.
- Mount the controller indoors. Prevent exposure to the elements and do not allow water to enter the controller.
- Install the controller in well ventilated places, the controller's heat sink may become very hot during operation.
- Suggested to install appropriate external fuses/breakers.
- Make sure switching off all connections with PV array and the fuse/breakers close to battery before controller installation and adjustment.
- Power connections must remain tight to avoid excessive heating from a loose connection.
Information générales sur la sécurité
- Lisez toutes les instructions et précautions dans le manuel avant l'installation.
- Il n'y a aucune pièce utilisable pour l'utilisateur à l'intérieur du contrôleur. Ne démontez pas ou n'essayez pas de réparer le contrôleur.
- Montez le contrôleur en intérieur. Évitez l'exposition des éléments et ne laissez pas d'eau entrer dans le contrôleur.
- Installez le contrôleur eTracer dans un endroit bien ventilé, le dissipateur de chaleur de l'eTracer peut devenir très chaud pendant l'utilisation.
- Installez les fusibles / coupe-circuits comme indiqué.
- Déconnectez le module solaire, le chargeur et le fusible / coupe-circuit proche de la batterie avant l'installation ou le réglage du contrôleur.
- Les connexions d'alimentation doivent rester à proximité pour évier une chaleur excessive du fait d'une connexion trop lâche.
1 General Information
1.1 Overview
Appreciate you for choosing MPPT solar charge controller, Tracer-BN series. Based on common negative design and advanced MPPT control algorithm, with die-cast aluminum design for heat dissipation, products in this series are artistic, economical and practical.
With MPPT control algorithm, in any situation, products of this series can fast and accurately track out the best maximum power point (MPP) of photovoltaic array, in order to obtain the maximum solar energy in time, which remarkably improves energy efficiency. With Modbus communication protocol interface, it is convenient for customers to expand applications and monitor in various fields like telecommunication base station, household system, caravan system, street lighting system, wilderness monitoring system, etc.
All-round electronic fault self-test function and enhanced electronic protection function could furthest avoid damages on system components resulting from installation errors or system failures.
Feature:
- Advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology, with efficiency no less than 99.5%.
- High quality components, perfecting system performance, with maximum conversion efficiency of 98%.
- Ultra-fast tracking speed and guaranteed tracking efficiency.
- Accurately recognizing and tracking of multiple power points.
- Reliable automatic limit function of maximum PV input power, ensuring no overload under any circumstance.
- Wide MPP operating voltage range.
- Die-cast aluminum design, ensuring excellent heat dissipation characteristic.
- 12/24VDC automatically identifying system voltage or user-defined working voltage.
- LED indicators showing system status, simple and clear.
- Multiple load control modes: manual control, light ON/OFF, light On+Timer and time control.
- Support 4 charging options: Sealed, Gel, Flooded and User.
- Battery temperature compensation function.
- Real-time energy statistics function.
- With RS-485 communication bus interface and Modbus communication protocol, it is available to meet various communication requirements in different situations.
- Available for PC monitoring and external display unit connecting like MT50 and so on, realizing real-time data checking and parameters setting.
- Support software upgrade.
1.2 Characteristics
A diagram shows the Tracer-BN Series Characteristics with numbered components:
- 1. Heat Sink
- 2. Charging LED indicator
- 3. RTS® Port
- 4. Solar Terminal
- 5. Battery Terminal
- 6. Load Terminal
- 7. RS-485® Port
- 8. Button
- 9. Battery LED indicator
1.3 Accessories Instructions
- Remote Temperature Sensor (Model: RTS300R47K3.81A)
Acquisition of battery temperature for undertaking temperature compensation of control parameters, the standard length of the cable is 3m (length can be customized). The RTS300R47K3.81A connects to the port (3rd) on the controller. NOTE: Unplug the RTS, the temperature of battery will be set to a fixed value 25°C. - Remote Meter (Model: MT50)
The digital remote meter displays system operating information, error indications, parameters setting and self-diagnostics. - Super Parameter Programmer (Model: SPP-02)
The SPP-02 can realize one-key setting operation which is suitable for bulk quantity products setting in the projects. - USB To RS-485 converter (Model: CC-USB-RS485-150U)
USB To RS-485 converter is used to monitor each controller on the network using Solar Station PC software and update the firmware. The length of cable is 1.5m. The CC-USB-RS485-150U connects to the RS-485 Port on the controller.
1.4 Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology
Due to the nonlinear characteristics of solar array, there is a maximum energy output point (Max Power Point) on its curve. Traditional controllers, with switch charging technology and PWM charging technology, can't charge the battery at the maximum power point, so can't harvest the maximum energy available from PV array, but the solar charge controller with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Technology can lock on the point to harvest the maximum energy and deliver it to the battery.
The MPPT algorithm of our company continuously compares and adjusts the operating points to attempt to locate the maximum power point of the array. The tracking process is fully automatic and does not need user adjustment.
As the Figure 1-2 shows, the curve is also the characteristic curve of the array, the MPPT technology will 'boost' the battery charge current through tracking the MPP. Assuming 100% conversion efficiency of the solar system, the following formula is established:
Input power (PPV)= Output power (PBat)
Input voltage (VMpp) *input current (Ipv) =Battery voltage (VBat) *battery current (IBat)
Normally, the VMpp is always higher than VBat. Due to the principle of conservation of energy, the IBat is always higher than Ipy. The greater the discrepancy between VMpp &VBat, the greater the discrepancy between Ipy& IBat. The greater the discrepancy between array and battery, the bigger reduction of the conversion efficiency of the system, thus the controller's conversion efficiency is particularly important in the PV system.
Figure 1-2 is the maximum power point curve, the shaded area is charging range of traditional solar charge controller (PWM Charging Mode), it can obviously diagnose that the MPPT mode can improve the usage of the solar energy resource. According to our test, the MPPT controller can raise 20%-30% efficiency compared to the PWM controller. (Value may be fluctuant due to the influence of the ambient circumstance and energy loss.)
A graph titled "Figure 1-2 Maximum Power Point Curve" shows current on the y-axis and voltage on the x-axis. The curve illustrates the relationship between current and voltage for a solar array, highlighting the Maximum Power Point (MPP) and the Traditional Operating Range.
In actual application, as shading from cloud, tree and snow, the panel maybe appear Multi-MPP, but in actually there is only one real Maximum Power Point. As the below Figure 1-3 shows:
Figure 1-3 Mutil-MPP Curve shows two graphs, each illustrating current vs. voltage for a solar array. These graphs demonstrate how shading can lead to multiple power points (Multi-MPP), but only one true Maximum Power Point (MPP).
If the program works improperly after appearing Multi-MPP, the system will not work on the real max power point, which may waste most solar energy resources and seriously affect the normal operation of the system. The typical MPPT algorithm, designed by our company, can track the real MPP quickly and accurately, improve the utilization rate of the array and avoid the waste of resources.
1.5 Battery Charging Stage
The controller has a 3 stages battery charging algorithm (Bulk Charging, Constant Charging and Float Charging) for rapid, efficient, and safe battery charging.
A diagram titled "Figure 1-4 Battery changing stage Curve" illustrates the battery voltage and current over time during the charging process. It shows three stages: Bulk Charging (constant current), Constant Charging (constant voltage), and Float Charging (reduced voltage and current). It also indicates stages like Equalize, Boost, and Recharge.
A) Bulk Charging
In this stage, the battery voltage has not yet reached constant voltage (Equalize or Boost Voltage), the controller operates in constant current mode, delivering its maximum current to the batteries (MPPT Charging).
B) Constant Charging
When the battery voltage reaches the constant voltage setpoint, the controller will start to operate in constant charging mode. This process is no longer MPPT charging, and the charging current will drop gradually. The Constant Charging has 2 stages: equalize and boost. These two stages are not carried out constantly in a full charge process to avoid too much gas precipitation or overheating of battery.
Boost Charging
The Boost stage maintains for 2 hours by default; the user can adjust the constant time and preset value of boost voltage according to demand. The stage is used to prevent heating and excessive battery gassing.
Equalize Charging
- WARNING: Explosive Risk! Equalizing flooded battery would produce explosive gases, so well ventilation of battery box is recommended.
- CAUTION: Equipment damage! Equalization may increase battery voltage to the level that damages sensitive DC loads. Verify that all load allowable input voltages are 11% greater than the equalizing charging set point voltage.
- CAUTION: Equipment damage! Over-charging and excessive gas precipitation may damage the battery plates and activate material shedding on them. Too high an equalizing charge or for too long may cause damage. Please carefully review the specific requirements of the battery used in the system.
- AVERTISSEMENT: Risque d'explosion! l'égalisation de batteries noyées peut produire des gaz explosifs, donc il est recommandé de bien ventiler le boitier de la batterie.
- ATTENTION: Dégât sur l'équipement! L'égalisation peut augmenter la tension de la batterie jusqu'à un niveau nuisible pour les charges CC sensibles. Vérifiez que la tension d'entrée autorisées de toutes les charges disponibles sont supérieures à 11% à la tension du point d'installation de chargement d'égalisation.
- ATTENTION: Dégât sur l'équipement! Un chargement excessif et une précipitation de gaz peut endommager les plaques de la batterie et la formation de matières actives dessus. Un chargement trop fort ou une égalisation prolongée peut causer des dégâts. Inspectez soigneusement les conditions spécifiques de la batterie utilisée dans le système.
Some types of batteries benefit from equalizing charge on a regular basis, which is able to stir electrolyte, balance battery voltage and accomplish chemical reaction. Equalizing charge increases battery voltage, higher than the standard complement voltage, which gasifies the battery electrolyte.
The controller will equalize the battery on the 28th each month. The constant equalization period is 0~180 minutes. If the equalization isn't accomplished in one-time, the equalization recharge time will be accumulated until the set time is finished. Equalize charge and boost charge are not carried out constantly in a full charge process to avoid too much gas precipitation or overheating of battery.
NOTE:
- Due to the influence of ambient circumstance or load working, the battery voltage can't be steady in constant voltage, controller will accumulate and calculate the time of constant voltage working. When the accumulated time reach to 3 hours, the charging mode will turn to Float Charging.
- If the controller time is not adjusted, the controller will equalize charge battery once every month following the inner time.
C) Float Charging
After the Constant voltage stage, the controller will reduce charging current to Float Voltage setpoint. This stage will have no more chemical reactions and all the charge current transforms into heat and gas at this time. Then the controller reduces the voltage to the floating stage, charging with a smaller voltage and current. It will reduce the temperature of the battery and prevent the gassing and charging the battery slightly at the same time. The purpose of Float stage is to offset the power consumption caused by self consumption and small loads in the whole system, while maintaining full battery storage capacity.
In Float charging stage, loads are able to obtain almost all power from solar panel. If loads exceed the power, the controller will no longer be able to maintain battery voltage in Float charging stage. If the battery voltage remains below the Recharge Voltage, the system will leave Float charging stage and return to Bulk charging stage.
2 Installation Instructions
2.1 General Installation Notes
- Before installation, please read through the entire installation instructions to get familiar with the installation steps.
- Be very careful when installing the batteries, especially flooded lead-acid battery. Please wear eye protection, and have fresh water available to wash and clean any contact with battery acid.
- Keep the battery away from any metal objects, which may cause short circuit of the battery.
- Explosive battery gases may come out from the battery during charging, so make sure ventilation condition is good.
- Gel, Sealed or Flooded batteries are recommended, other kinds please refer to the battery manufacturer.
- Ventilation is highly recommended if mounted in an enclosure. Never install the controller in a sealed enclosure with flooded batteries! Battery fumes from vented batteries will corrode and destroy the controller circuits.
- Loose power connections and corroded wires may result in high heat that can melt wire insulation, burn surrounding materials, or even cause fire. Ensure tight connections and use cable clamps to secure cables and prevent them from swaying in mobile applications.
- Battery connection may be wired to one battery or a bank of batteries. The following instructions refer to a singular battery, but it is implied that the battery connection can be made to either one battery or a group of batteries in a battery bank.
- Multiple same models of controllers can be installed in parallel on the same battery bank to achieve higher charging current. Each controller must have its own solar module(s).
- Select the system cables according to 5A/mm² or less current density in accordance with Article 690 of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70.
- Intended for indoor use only.
2.2 PV Array Requirements
Serial connection (string) of PV modules
As the core component of PV system, Controller could be suitable for various types of PV modules and maximize converting solar energy into electrical energy.
According to the open circuit voltage (Voc) and the maximum power point voltage (VMpp) of the MPPT controller, the series number of different types PV modules can be calculated. The below table is for reference only.
| System voltage | 36cell Voc<23V | 48cell Voc<31V | 54cell Voc<34V | 60cell Voc<38V | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAX. | Best | MAX. | Best | MAX. | Best | MAX. | Best | |
| 12V | 4 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| 24V | 6 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| System voltage | 72cell Voc<46V | 96cell Voc<62V | Thin-Film Module Voc>80V | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAX. | Best | MAX. | Best | MAX. | Best | |
| 12V | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 24V | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
NOTE: The above parameter values are calculated under standard test conditions (STC (Standard Test Condition): Irradiance 1000W/m², Module Temperature 25°C, Air Mass1.5.)
PV array maximum power
This MPPT controller has a limiting function of charging current; the charging current will be limited within rated range, therefore, the controller will charge the battery with the rated charging power even if the input power at the PV exceeds.
The actual operation power of the PV array conforms to the conditions below:
- PV array actual power ≤ controller rated charge power, the controller charge battery at actual maximum power point.
- PV array actual power > controller rated charge power, the controller charge battery at rated power.
If the PV array higher than rated power, the charging time at rated power to battery will be longer, more energy to battery yields.
WARNING: Controller will be damaged when the PV array straight polarity and the actual operation power of the PV array is three times greater than the rated charge power!
WARNING: Controller will be damaged when the PV array reverse polarity and the actual operation power of the PV array is 1.5 times greater than the rated charge power!
When the PV array straight polarity, the actual operation of the PV array must NOT exceed three times of rated charge power. When the PV array reverse polarity, the actual operation must NOT exceed 1.5 times. For real application please refer to the table below:
| Model | Rated Charge Current | Rated Charge Power | Max. PV Array Power | Max. PV open circuit voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tracer1215BN | 10A | 130W/12V 260W/24V |
390W/12V 780W/24V |
150V 138V (at 25°C environment temperature) |
| Tracer2215BN | 20A | 260W/12V 520W/24V |
780W/12V 1560W/24V |
|
| Tracer3215BN | 30A | 390W/12V 780W/24V |
1170W/12V 2340W/24V |
|
| Tracer4215BN | 40A | 520W/12V 1040W/24V |
1560W/12V 3120W/24V |
① At minimum operating environment temperature
② At 25°C environment temperature
2.3 Wire Size
The wiring and installation methods must conform to all national and local electrical code requirements.
PV Wire Size
Since PV array output can vary due to the PV module size, connection method or sunlight angle, the minimum wire size can be calculated by the Isc of PV array. Please refer to the value of Isc in PV module specification. When the PV modules connect in series, the Isc is equal to the PV module's Isc. When the PV modules connect in parallel, the Isc is equal to the sum of PV module's Isc. The Isc of PV array must not exceed the maximum PV input current, please refer to the table as below:
| Model | Max. PV input current | Max. PV wire size (mm²/AWG) |
|---|---|---|
| Tracer1215BN | 10A | 4/12 |
| Tracer2215BN | 20A | 6/10 |
| Tracer3215BN | 30A | 10/8 |
| Tracer4215BN | 40A | 16/6 |
NOTE: When the PV modules connect in series, the open circuit voltage of the PV array must not exceed 138V (25℃).
Battery and Load Wire Size
The battery and load wire size must conform to the rated current, the reference size as below:
| Model | Rated charge current | Rated discharge current | Battery wire size (mm²/AWG) | Load wire size (mm²/AWG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tracer1215BN | 10A | 10A | 4/12 | 4/12 |
| Tracer2215BN | 20A | 20A | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Tracer3215BN | 30A | 20A | 10/8 | 6/10 |
| Tracer4215BN | 40A | 20A | 16/6 | 6/10 |
NOTE: The wire size is only for reference. If there is a long distance between the PV array and the controller or between the controller and the battery, larger wires can be used to reduce the voltage drop and improve performance.
2.4 Mounting
- CAUTION: The controller requires at least 150mm of clearance above and below for proper air flow. Ventilation is highly recommended if mounted in an enclosure.
- WARNING: Risk of explosion! Never install the controller in a sealed enclose with flooded batteries! Do not install in a confined area where battery gas can accumulate.
- WARNING: Risk of electric shock! Exercise caution when handling solar wiring. The solar PV array can produce open-circuit voltages in excess of 150V when in sunlight. Pay more attention to it.
- ATTENTION: Le contrôleur Tracer nécessite au moins un espace libre de 150mm au dessus et en dessous pour une circulation correcte de l'air. Une ventilation est hautement recommandée en cas d'installation dans un boitier.
- AVERTISSEMENT : Risque d'explosion ! N'installez jamais le Tracer dans un boitier fermé avec des batteries noyées! N'installez pas dans un espace confiné où des gaz de batterie peuvent s'accumuler.
- AVERTISSEMENT: Risque d'électrochoc! Faites attention lors de la manipulation des connexions solaires. La matrice PV solaire peut produire des tensions supérieures à 150V, à la lumière du soleil. Soyez particulièrement attentif à cela.
A diagram titled "Figure 2-1 Mounting" illustrates the wiring connections for the charge controller, battery, PV array, and load. It shows the correct sequence for connecting components.
- 1) Connect components to the charge controller in the sequence as shown above and pay much attention to the “+” and “-”. Please don't turn on the fuse during the installation. When disconnecting the system, the order will be reserved.
- 2) After installation, power the controller and check the battery indicator on the controller, it will be green. If it's not green, please refer to chapter 4. Always connect the battery first, in order to allow the controller to recognize the system voltage.
- 3) The battery fuse should be installed as close to the battery as possible. The suggested distance is within 150mm.
- 4) The Tracer-BN series is a negative ground controller. Any negative connection of solar, load or battery can be earth grounded as required.
- CAUTION: Unplug the RTS, the temperature of battery will be set to a fixed value 25 °C.
- CAUTION: Please connect the inverter to the battery rather than to the controller, if the inverter is necessary.
- CAUTION: The RS-485 port and RTS port is not SELV circuit, it must have isolation between the port and the place where the end user can access directly.
3 Operation
3.1 LED Indication
A table details the LED indicators, their colors, and their status meanings:
| LED Indication | Color | Indicator | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PV | Green | On Solid | PV connection normal but voltage(irradiance) low from PV, no charging |
| Green | Slowly Flashing(1Hz) | In charging | |
| Green | OFF | No PV voltage(night time) or PV connection problem | |
| BATT | Green | On Solid | Normal |
| Green | Slowly Flashing(1Hz) | Full | |
| Green | Fast Flashing(4Hz) | Over voltage | |
| Orange | On Solid | Under voltage | |
| Load Status LED indicator | Red | On Solid | Over discharge |
| Red | Flashing | Battery Overheating | |
| Red | On Solid | Load ON | |
| Red | OFF | Load OFF | |
| Red | Fast Flashing (4Hz) | Load Short Circuit | |
| Red | Slowly Flashing(1Hz) | Load Overload | |
| Charging(green), battery (orange) and load(red) indicator flashing simultaneously | System voltage error | ||
| Charging(green) and battery indicator(orange) flashing simultaneously | Controller overheating | ||
3.2 Setting Operation
Figure 3-1 Setting operation shows various methods to configure the controller:
- Remote meter (MT50)
- Super parameter programmer (SPP-02)
- PC monitoring software (Solar Station Monitor) using USB to RS485 converter
- Mobile APP using USB to RS485 converter and Micro 5PIN OTG cable
WARNING: DO NOT communicate with the PC using the Ethernet cable, otherwise the components of controller will be damaged.
The RJ45 interface pin define is shown below:
| Pins | Define |
|---|---|
| 1 | Power supply output +5V |
| 2 | Power supply output +5V |
| 3 | RS-485-B |
| 4 | RS-485-B |
| 5 | RS-485-A |
| 6 | RS-485-A |
| 7 | Ground |
| 8 | Ground |
A diagram shows the RJ45 connector with pins 1 through 8.
WARNING: The RJ45 interface is only allowed to connect with our company products or operated by qualified engineer. (The RJ45 interface Voltage is 5V and the current is 50mA)
3.3 Battery Type
The controller supports four battery types: 1) Sealed (Default), 2) Gel, 3) Flooded, 4) User. Battery Voltage Parameters are listed for a 12V system at 25℃, and should be doubled for a 24V system.
| Battery charging setting | Sealed | Gel | Flooded | User |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Over Voltage Disconnect Voltage | 16.0V | 16.0V | 16.0V | 9~17V |
| Charging Limit Voltage | 15.0V | 15.0V | 15.0V | 9~17V |
| Over Voltage Reconnect Voltage | 15.0V | 15.0V | 15.0V | 9~17V |
| Equalize Charging Voltage | 14.6V | — | 14.8V | 9~17V |
| Boost Charging Voltage | 14.4V | 14.2V | 14.6V | 9~17V |
| Float Charging Voltage | 13.8V | 13.8V | 13.8V | 9~17V |
| Boost Reconnect Charging Voltage | 13.2V | 13.2V | 13.2V | 9~17V |
| Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage | 12.6V | 12.6V | 12.6V | 9~17V |
| Under Voltage Warning Reconnect Voltage | 12.2V | 12.2V | 12.2V | 9~17V |
| Under Volt. Warning Volt. | 12.0V | 12.0V | 12.0V | 9~17V |
| Low Volt. Disconnect Volt. | 11.1V | 11.1V | 11.1V | 9~17V |
| Discharging Limit Voltage | 10.6V | 10.6V | 10.6V | 9~17V |
| Equalize Duration (min.) | 120 | — | 120 | 0~180 |
| Boost Duration (min.) | 120 | 120 | 120 | 10~180 |
NOTE:
- When the battery type is sealed, gel, flooded, the adjusting range of equalize duration is 0 to180min and boost duration is 10 to180min.
- The following rules must be observed when modifying the parameters value in user battery type (factory default value is the same as sealed type):
a. Over Voltage Disconnect Voltage > Charging Limit Voltage ≥ Equalize Charging Voltage ≥ Boost Charging Voltage ≥ Float Charging Voltage > Boost Reconnect Charging Voltage.
b. Over Voltage Disconnect Voltage > Over Voltage Reconnect Voltage.
c. Low Voltage Reconnect Voltage > Low Voltage Disconnect Voltage ≥ Discharging Limit Voltage.
d. Under Voltage Warning Reconnect Voltage > Under Voltage Warning Voltage ≥ Discharging Limit Voltage.
e. Boost Reconnect Charging voltage > Low Voltage Disconnect Voltage.
CAUTION: Please refer to user guide or contact with the sales for the detail of setting operation.
3.4 Load Set Mode
- Manual Control (default)
The load can be switched by button or remote control command. - Light ON/Off
Diagrams illustrate the Light ON/OFF mode, showing the load turning on at dusk and off at dawn.
- Light ON+ Timer
Diagrams illustrate the Light ON+Timer mode, showing the load turning on and off at specific times during the night.
- Time Control
Control the load on/off time through setting real-time clock.
4 Protections, Troubleshooting and Maintenance
4.1 Protection
- PV Over Current
The controller will limit battery charging current to the Maximum Battery Current rating. Therefore an over-sized solar array will not operate at peak power. - PV Short Circuit
When PV short circuit occurs, the controller will stop charging. Clear it to resume normal operation. - PV Reverse Polarity
Fully protection against PV reverse polarity, no damage to the controller will result. Correct the miswire to resume normal operation. - WARNING: Controller will be damaged when the PV array straight polarity and the actual operation power of the PV array is 1.5 times greater than the rated charge power!
- Battery Reverse Polarity
Fully protection against battery reverse polarity, no damage to the controller will result. Correct the miswire to resume normal operation. - Battery Over voltage
When battery voltage reach to the voltage set point of Over Voltage Disconnect Voltage, the controller will stop charging the battery to protect the battery overcharge to break down. - Battery Over discharge
When battery voltage reach to the voltage set point of Low Voltage Disconnect Voltage, the controller will stop discharging the battery to protect the battery over discharged to break down. - Battery Overheating
The controller detects the battery temperature through the external temperature sensor. If the battery temperature exceeds 65°C, the controller will automatically start the overheating protection to stop working and recover below 50 °C. - Load Overload
If the load current exceeds the maximum load current rating 1.05 times, the controller will disconnect the load. Overloading must be cleared up through reducing the load and restarting controller. - Load Short Circuit
Fully protected against load wiring short-circuit. Once the load shorts (more than quadruple rate current), the load short protection will start automatically. After five automatic load reconnect attempts, the fault must be cleared by restarting controller. - Damaged Remote Temperature Sensor
If the temperature sensor is short-circuited or damaged, the controller will be charging or discharging at the default temperature 25°C to prevent the battery damaged from overcharging or over discharged. - Controller Overheating
If the temperature of the controller heat sinks exceeds 85°C, the controller will automatically start the overheating protection and recover below 75°C. - High Voltage Transients
PV is protected against small high voltage surge. In lightning prone areas, additional external suppression is recommended.
4.2 Troubleshooting
A table lists common faults, their possible reasons, and troubleshooting steps:
| Faults | Possible reasons | Troubleshooting |
|---|---|---|
| Charging LED indicator off during daytime when sunshine falls on PV modules properly | PV array disconnection | Confirm that PV and battery wire connections are correct and tight |
| Wire connection is correct, LED indicator off | 1. Battery voltage is lower than 9V 2. PV voltage is less than battery voltage |
1. Please check the voltage of battery. At least 9V voltage to activate the controller 2. Check the PV input voltage which should be higher than battery's |
| Battery LED indicator green fast blink | Battery voltage higher than over voltage disconnect voltage(OVD) | Check if the battery voltage is too high, and disconnect the solar module |
| Battery LED indicator orange | Battery under voltage | Load output is normal, charging LED indicator will return to green automatically when fully charged |
| Battery LED indicator red color | Battery low voltage disconnect | The controller will cut off the output automatically, LED indicator will return to green automatically when fully charged |
| All the LED indicators blink. (battery indicator orange blink) | Too high temperature of controller | When heat sink of the controller exceeds 85°C, the controller will automatically cut input and output circuit. When the temperature below 75°C, the controller will resume to work |
| All the LED indicators blink. (battery indicator red blink) | System voltage error | Check whether the battery voltage match with the controller working voltage. Please change to a suitable battery or reset the working voltage. Remove all faults and click the button to resume to work |
| Load terminals no output | Over load or Short circuit | Remove or reduce the load and press the button, the controller will resume to work after 3 seconds |
4.3 Maintenance
The following inspections and maintenance tasks are recommended at least two times per year for best performance:
- Make sure controller firmly installed in a clean and dry ambient.
- Make sure no block on air-flow around the controller. Clear up any dirt and fragments on radiator.
- Check all the naked wires to make sure insulation is not damaged for serious solarization, frictional wear, dryness, insects or rats etc. Repair or replace some wires if necessary.
- Tighten all the terminals. Inspect for loose, broken, or burnt wire connections.
- Check and confirm that LED is consistent with required. Pay attention to any troubleshooting or error indication. Take corrective action if necessary.
- Confirm that all the system components are ground connected tightly and correctly.
- Confirm that all the terminals have no corrosion, insulation damaged, high temperature or burnt/discolored sign, tighten terminal screws to the suggested torque.
- Check for dirt, nesting insects and corrosion. If so, clear up in time.
- Check and confirm that lightning arrester is in good condition. Replace a new one in time to avoid damaging of the controller and even other equipments.
WARNING: Risk of electric shock! Make sure that all the power is turned off before above operations, and then follow the corresponding inspections and operations.
5 Technical Specifications
Electrical Parameters
| Item | Tracer 1215BN | Tracer 2215BN | Tracer 3215BN | Tracer 4215BN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal system voltage | 12/24VDC Auto | |||
| Rated charge current | 10A | 20A | 30A | 40A |
| Rated discharge current | 10A | 20A | 20A | 20A |
| Battery voltage range | 8V~32V | |||
| Max. PV open circuit voltage | 150V (at minimum operating environment temperature) 138V (at 25°C environment temperature) |
|||
| MPP voltage range | Battery voltage+2V~108V | |||
| Max. PV input power | 130W(12V) 260W(24V) |
260W(12V) 520W(24V) |
390W(12V) 780W(24V) |
520W(12V) 1040W(24V) |
| Self-consumption | ≤60mA(12V);≤30mA(24V) | |||
| Discharge circuit voltage drop | ≤0.15V | |||
| Temperature compensate coefficient | -3mV/°C/2V(Default) | |||
| Communication | RS485(RJ45 interface) | |||
| Grounding | Common negative | |||
| Environmental Parameters | Parameter | |||
| Ambient temperature range* | -35℃~+55℃ | |||
| Storage temperature range | -35℃~+80℃ | |||
| Humidity range | ≤95% (N.C.) | |||
| Enclosure | IP30 | |||
* Please operate controller at permitted ambient temperature. If over permissible range, please derate capacity in service.
Mechanical Parameters
| Mechanical | Tracer1215BN | Tracer2215BN | Tracer3215BN | Tracer4215BN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimension | 196x117.8x36mm | 216.6x142.6x56mm | 280.7x159.7x60mm | 302.5x182.7x63.5mm |
| Mounting dimension | 106mm x 185mm | 130mm x 204mm | 147mm x 268mm | 170mm x 290mm |
| Mounting hole size | Φ4.7 | Φ4.7 | Φ4.7 | Φ4.7 |
| Power cable | 12AWG(4mm²) | 8AWG(10mm²) | 6AWG(16mm²) | 4AWG(25mm²) |
| Weight | 0.8kg | 1.5kg | 2.2kg | 2.9kg |
Annex I Conversion Efficiency Curve
Illumination Intensity: 1000W/m² Temp: 25°C
Model: Tracer1215BN
1. Solar Module MPP Voltage(16.5V, 34V, 66V) / Nominal System Voltage(12V)
A graph titled "12V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (16.5V, 34V, 66V).
2. Solar Module MPP Voltage(34V, 66V, 98V) / Nominal System Voltage(24V)
A graph titled "24V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (34V, 66V, 98V).
Model: Tracer2215BN
1.Solar Module MPP Voltage(16.5V, 33V, 66V) / Nominal System Voltage(12V)
A graph titled "12V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (16.5V, 33V, 66V).
2.Solar Module MPP Voltage(33V, 66V, 98V) / Nominal System Voltage(24V)
A graph titled "24V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (33V, 66V, 98V).
Model: Tracer3215BN
1.Solar Module MPP Voltage(16.5V, 33V, 66V) / Nominal System Voltage(12V)
A graph titled "12V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (16.5V, 33V, 66V).
2.Solar Module MPP Voltage(33V, 66V, 98V) / Nominal System Voltage(24V)
A graph titled "24V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (33V, 66V, 98V).
Model: Tracer4215BN
1.Solar Module MPP Voltage(16.5V, 33V, 66V) / Nominal System Voltage(12V)
A graph titled "12V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (16.5V, 33V, 66V).
2.Solar Module MPP Voltage(33V, 66V, 98V) / Nominal System Voltage(24V)
A graph titled "24V Conversion Efficiency Curves" shows conversion efficiency (%) on the y-axis and charging power (W) on the x-axis. It displays three curves for different MPP voltages (33V, 66V, 98V).
Annex II Dimensions
Tracer1215BN Dimensions in Millimeters
Diagrams show the dimensions of the Tracer1215BN in millimeters, including length, width, and height, as well as mounting hole details.
Tracer2215BN Dimensions in Millimeters
Diagrams show the dimensions of the Tracer2215BN in millimeters, including length, width, and height, as well as mounting hole details.
Tracer3215BN Dimensions in Millimeters
Diagrams show the dimensions of the Tracer3215BN in millimeters, including length, width, and height, as well as mounting hole details.
Tracer4215BN Dimensions in Millimeters
Diagrams show the dimensions of the Tracer4215BN in millimeters, including length, width, and height, as well as mounting hole details.
Any changes without prior notice! Version number: V1.2
