Renogy Solar Suitcase 60W and 100W Owner's Manual

Product Description

The Renogy Solar Suitcases combine highly efficient Renogy Solar Panels and a fully adjustable 10 Amp PWM Fully Adjustable Solar Charge Controller with LCD Screen to create an easy-to-use, 'plug and play' system.

This system is specifically designed for mobile off-grid applications, where space and weight limitations are abundant. The Solar Suitcase 100W supports 12V deep cycle battery varieties such as sealed lead acid, gel, and flooded. With built-in tilting stands, these panels can be adjusted at different angles to maximize the power output throughout the seasons.

The alligator clips included in this package make it easy to connect the panel to a battery in seconds. If one ever needs to connect a battery with a different type of end terminal, the alligator clips are attached via MC4 Connectors.

PWM Technology

The built-in charge controller is based on advanced Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) charging technology. With a charging range of 0-100%, it can charge a battery quickly and safely under any condition of the solar photovoltaic system.

When charging, the controller utilizes automatic duty cycle conversion, creating pulses of current to charge the battery. Intermissions make the oxygen and hydrogen generated by chemical reactions combine again and become absorbed. This process can naturally eliminate both concentration polarization and ohm polarization, and can also reduce the internal pressure of the battery; thus, the battery will absorb more power. Pulse current charging mode allows the battery more time to react, which reduces the gassing volume and makes the battery improve the acceptance rate of the charging current.

To learn more about the 10A Amp PWM Charge Controller included with the Renogy Solar Suitcase 100W, please visit our Guides and Downloads webpage, and download the separate manual for this controller. You can scan the QR Code or visit: http://goo.gl/NrqNn5

Components

The back of the solar panel unit shows a junction box, the 10A PWM ViewStar LCD Charge Controller, MC4 connectors, a 15 ft. tray cable, tilting stands, an aluminum frame with corner protection, a fuse holder with a 7.5A mini fuse, and battery alligator clips. Latches and a handle are also visible. A storage case is mentioned as included but not depicted.

Installation

1. Unclip the two latches on the side of the unit and unfold the two panels outward. Extend the stands to support the solar panels.
2. The controller is mounted on a metal plate. The plate is attached to the back of the panel with Velcro. Hinges attached to the metal plate allow the user to swivel the charge controller to get a better look at the LCD display. The Velcro allows the re-attachment of the charge controller back under the panel.
3. Fully extend battery leads. Connect the red alligator clip to the positive (+) battery terminal and the black alligator clip to the negative (-) battery terminal on a 12V battery. Ensure that the connections are secure.
   Note: The kit should be connected to a battery generating at least 9V to start the charge controller. If the 12V battery is fully discharged, charge it for a short period of time by other means to reach 9V.
4. When you connect the kit to the battery, the charge controller will display a boot-up message, typically showing 'WELCOME VERSION 1.23'.
5. Adjusting Battery Size and Type: Press MENU/- to enter options, then press ↑/ + or ↓/- to navigate. When the cursor is on 'Rated Value', press ENTER/- to enter the parameter interface. Use ↑/ + or ↓/- to move between parameters and MENU/- or ENTER/- to adjust values. The battery type and capacity (1-999 AH) can be modified. Select battery type (Seal, Gel, Flood) using ↑/ + or ↓/- after the capacity.
   Seal = Sealed Lead Acid (AGM), Gel = Gel Battery, Flood = Flooded (wet cell) battery
6. Settings can be saved by pressing ENTER/- until the last parameter (Battery Type) is reached. Choose 'Save' or 'Cancel' using ↑/ + or ↓/-. Press ENTER/- to confirm. A 'SAVE SUCCESS!' message will appear if parameters are valid. Press ENTER/- again to exit to the main menu.
7. Find a clear sunlit area, free from obstructions. The panel should face south. Adjust the tilting angle for optimal performance based on the season:
   Summer: θ = Latitude - 15°
   Fall and Spring: θ = Latitude
   Winter: θ = Latitude + 15°
   Note: Adjust the panel position regularly to track the sun throughout the day.
8. Remote Temperature Sensor (optional): The charge controller has a built-in temperature sensor for compensation. An optional Remote Temperature Sensor (Model: TS-R) can be connected via the 2ERJ-3.81 'Temp Sensor' port for more accurate readings, especially if the battery is shaded.

Charge Controller LEDs

The charge controller features indicator LEDs for status monitoring:

• Charging LED Indicator (Green): Turns on when sunlight is available for battery charging. Stays on during normal charging conditions.
• Fault LED Indicator (Red): Flashes red when a fault occurs.

Charging Indicator

Fault Indicator

The fault indicator will flash red in the following cases:

Solar module

• Over-current
• Error while trying to measure the voltage
• Reverse-protection MOS-I short
• MOS-C short
• MOS-I or MOS-C disconnection
• MOS break in control section

Battery

• Over-voltage
• Error while trying to measure the voltage
• The temperature is above range (battery too hot)

Load

• Over load
• Short
• Discharging MOS Short
• Error while trying to measure the voltage

Device

• Controller is operating too hot

For troubleshooting, please refer to the charge controller manual (Chapter 5).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What type of batteries can be used with this kit?

A. Any sealed lead acid, gel, or flooded 12V battery (typically used in caravans, motorhomes, boats etc.) is appropriate for use with this kit.

Q. Can this kit charge a 24V battery?

A. No, because this kit is designed to charge a 12V battery. Technically, it's possible to change solar panel connections to enable the kit to work in 24V mode; however, a qualified, knowledgeable individual should only do this.
Note: Unauthorized modification to 24V will void the warranty.

Q. Can the kit charge two or more 12V batteries connected in parallel?

A. Yes, it's possible if the batteries have the same type and capacity and are wired in parallel as a single 12V battery bank.

Q. Is there any risk that the solar kit will over charge my battery?

A. One of the functions of the solar charge controller is to ensure that your battery is not over charged; therefore there is no risk of overcharge.

Q. Can I extend the battery leads?

A. Yes, it's possible – please choose the same size of cable for extension. However, the longer the extension, the greater the line loss. Bigger gauge will be required for longer runs.

Q. Do I need to clean the solar panels?

A. Yes, it is recommended for better performance. Dust and dirt should first be swept off the panel surface using a soft brush. When the sweeping is complete, use a wet cloth to wipe the panel surface to remove remaining dirt and grime.

Q. Can rain damage the solar kit?

A. The solar panels are fully waterproof (IP66 class), the controller is not. We recommend protecting the kit from rain, since water into the controller may damage the internal circuitry.

Troubleshooting

• Check all connections to ensure they are secure and clean.
• Check polarity of the battery connection and make sure the battery generates at least 9V.
• Ensure the solar panels are exposed to sufficient light – ideally position them to face the sun directly.
• For more information, refer to the Troubleshooting section of the Solar Controller Manual (skip anything which relates to load work in the controller manual as the load terminals of the controller are not used).

Specifications

Solar Panels

Specifications under standard test conditions (STC): 1000W/m², AM 1.5, 25 °C. Specifications are stated for the solar panels only without the effect of the charge controller.

Charge Controller

*Array voltage should never exceed maximum PV input voltage. Refer to the solar module documentation to determine the highest expected array Voc (Open Circuit Voltage) as defined by the lowest expected ambient temperature for the system location.

Charging Parameters

Table 5 Continued

Threshold Voltage

Temperature Compensation

*Compensation of equalize, boost, float and low voltage disconnect voltage

Environmental Parameters

Mechanical Parameters