Solar Regulators
What are Solar Regulators / Solar Charge Controllers?
Solar electric power systems are essentially very simple. You have a device which converts sunlight into electrical energy (a photovoltaic panel or 'solar panel') and this is used to charge up a battery. The battery allows you to collect energy when the sun is shining and store it until needed.
This simple picture is complicated by the limitations of the battery. If you leave the photovoltaic panel connected to a battery, the battery will slowly charge up. If you are putting in more energy than you are taking out, then the battery will eventually become fully charged. If this continues, the battery will become overcharged and be damaged by corrosion of it's plates and loss of electrolyte. To avoid this, some sort of charge regulator / solar regulator is used to stop the charging when the battery is full.
Some charge controllers / solar regulators have additional features, such as a low voltage disconnect (LDV), a separate circuit which powers down the load when the batteries become overly discharged (some battery chemistries are such that over-discharge can ruin the battery).Some charge controllers may also monitor battery temperature to prevent overheating. Some charge controller systems also display data, transmit data to remote displays, and data logging to track electric flow over time.
Pulse width modulation (PWM) and maximum power point tracker (MPPT) technologies are more electronically sophisticated, adjusting charging rates depending on the battery's level, to allow charging closer to its maximum capacity.
Series Regulator vs MPPT
The MPPT versus series regulated question is not always straight forward as it very much depends on the conditions under which charging is taking place.
MPPT is good if you need to run cables from an array over a long distance as it allows higher voltage panel strings (therefore lower power loss due to cable resistance, because of lower currents).
Other than that, MPPT is useful if you don’t want to (or can’t) match the panel specifications to the battery (e.g. on a motorhome you may want to use some uncommon, high output panels since the roof space is limited).
Be aware that the % gains claimed for MPPT (other than the above couple of examples) are not likely to be ‘real world’ (e.g. How many hours during the day do your panels work at 25°C or less ?!). The hotter the panels become –the maximum power point voltage decreases and gets close to a typical battery voltage, therefore wiping out most (if not all) the gain an MPPT unit will give.
The other issues with MPPT (particularly for boats at sea) is that it’s not always easy to bypass the regulator should a fault occur (e.g. due to lightning) since the panels and battery are not matched (e.g. high voltage panels and lower voltage battery). With a series regulated system (like the Plasmatronics regulators), the system can be kept running by connecting the panels directly to the battery and manually regulating.
Morningstar Solar Regulators
Morningstar Corporation is a world-leading supplier of solar charge controllers & inverters.
With over 2 million units installed, in over 112 countries around the world, they are renowned for delivering the industry’s best overall customer value. Their controllers & inverters have set new standards in performance, innovative features, quality & reliability. Their products are manufactured in a fully automated world-class ISO 9001 facility. Morningstar's Quality Control includes 100% functional testing on every product, using the latest computerized test equipment and processes.
Morningstar’s products have been recognized in international solar markets as the most advanced and highest-quality products available. Their products exceed all other PV controllers & inverters for protection against extreme environments, corrosion, lightning surges and harsh ambient operating temperatures (common to remote PV systems)—all while delivering more than twice the industry’s average operating life.
Their advanced PWM & MPPT solar charge controllers deliver extended battery capacity & life, lower overall system costs and maximum energy harvest. Their simple-to-use products & customer-focused support includes multi-lingual product documentation, detailed operation/installation manuals, phone & web-based tech support as well as a variety of user & installation friendly product features.
Morningstar SunSaver
Since its first market introduction in 1996, over 1 million SunSaver controllers have been installed in over 73 countries for numerous solar power systems including oil/gas, telecom and instrumentation, marine and boating, and remote homes.
Morningstar have retained much of their legacy design including the same ratings, footprint and simple user interface, and have added several new and advanced high value features:
- Full electronic protections
- 4 stage battery charging
- Self-diagnostics to detect critical faults
- Multi-Colour status LED's
- 3 LED's for Battery State of Charge
- Dead Battery Recovery
- Telecom mode for sensitive loads
- Maximum Charge Limiting for sensitive loads
- Cover to protect wire terminals
The SunSaver Solar controllers are designed for Caravan / Motor-home / Camping / Marine systems, as well as Commercial and Industrial Stand-Alone applications, including in the Oil and Gas, Security and Instrumentation, Telecommunication and Transport & Traffic industries.
Key Features and Benefits:
Extremely High Reliability
- Failure rate of less than 1 per 1,000 shipped (<0.1%)
- 100% solid state. Power MOSFET design
- Manufactured in an ISO 9000 factory
- 100% pre-shipment functional testing
Longer Battery Life:
- Advanced PWM charging
- Series design (not shunt) for cool operation
- 4-stage charging: bulk, absorption, float, equalize
- Optimised sealed or flooded battery set points
- Temperature compensated charging
- Low voltage load disconnect on several versions
Designed For Harsh Environments:
- Temperature rating of -40°c to +60°c
- Epoxy encapsulation for protection against humidity and dust ingress
- Corrosion protection: Marine rated terminals and anodised aluminium case
- Certified for use in Hazardous locations
Easy to Install and Use
- Factory pre-sets result in no required install settings
- Electronic protections prevent damage from wiring mistakes
- Fully automatic operation and fault recovery
- LED's display extensive information about status, faults and battery condition.
*NOTE: Due to high current in-rush on start up, Inverters are to be wired to the battery bank and not directly to the Load Terminal. Doing so could damage Regulator and void warranty.
SS-6-12V |
SS-6L-12V |
SS-10-12V |
SS-10L-12V |
SS-10L-24V |
SS-20L-12V |
SS-20L-24V |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Max. Solar Current: |
6 Amps |
6 Amps |
10 Amps |
10 Amps |
10 Amps |
20 Amps |
20 Amps |
Max. Load Current: |
6 Amps |
6 Amps |
10 Amps |
10 Amps |
10 Amps |
20 Amps |
20 Amps |
Low Volt Disconnect: |
No |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Min. Battery Voltage: |
99% |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Battery Voltage Range: |
1 Volt DC |
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Regulation voltage: |
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Sealed battery: 14.1 V Flooded battery: 14.4 V |
Sealed battery: 14.1 V Flooded battery: 14.4 V |
Sealed battery: 14.1 V Flooded battery: 14.4 V |
Sealed battery: 28.2 V Flooded battery: 28.8 V |
Sealed battery: 14.1 V Flooded battery: 14.4 V |
Sealed battery: 28.2 V Flooded battery: 28.8 V |
Load Disconnect: |
11.5 V |
11.5 V |
11.5 V |
11.5 V |
23.0 V |
11.5 V |
23.0 V |
LVD Reconnect: |
12.6 V |
12.6 V |
12.6 V |
12.6 V |
25.2 V |
12.6 V |
25.2 V |
Max. Solar Voltage: |
30 Volts |
30 Volts |
30 Volts |
30 Volts |
60 Volts |
30 Volts |
60 Volts |
Load In-Rush Capability: |
45 Amps |
45 Amps |
65 Amps |
65 Amps |
65 Amps |
140 Amps |
140 Amps |
Self-Consumption: |
< 8 mA |
< 8 mA |
< 8 mA |
< 8 mA |
< 8 mA |
< 8 mA |
< 8 mA |
Voltage Accuracy: |
12V: +/– 25 mV (typical) 24V: +/– 48 mV (typical) |
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Transient Surge Protection: |
1500W per Connection |
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Ambient Temperature: |
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Storage Temperature: |
–55°C to +80°C |
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Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
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Tropicalization: |
Epoxy Encapsulation, Marine Rated Terminals, Anodised Aluminium Case |
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Electronic Protections: |
Solar: Overload, short-circuit, high voltage Load: Overload, short-circuit, high voltage Battery: High voltage All: Reverse polarity, high temperature, lightning and transient surges Reverse current at night |
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Battery Charging: |
4-stage charging: Bulk, Absorption, Float, Equalize |
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Temperature Compensation: |
Coefficient: 12V: –30mV/°C 24V: –60mV/°C Range: –30°C to +60°C Set points: Absorption, Float, Equalize |
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Dimensions: |
15.2 x 5.5 x 3.4cm (6.0 x 2.2 x 1.3 inch) |
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Weight: |
0.23kg / 8 oz. |
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| LED Indications: | Status LED (1) - Charging or not charging Solar error conditions | Battery LED’s (3) - Battery level Charging stage |
| Certifications: | FCC Class B Part 15, CE and RoHS Compliant, ETL Listed to UL 1741 and CSA C22.2 No. 107.1-01, Hazardous Locations Class 1, Division 2, Groups A,B,C,D CSA C22.2#213, EMC Directives Immunity, emissions, safety, Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility |
Morningstar ProStar
Morningstar’s ProStar is the world’s leading mid-range solar controller for both professional and consumer applications.
This second generation ProStar:
- Adds New Features and Protections using highly advanced technology
- Provides longer battery life and improved system performance
- Sets new standards for reliability and self-diagnostics
The ProStar Solar controller is designed for Caravan / Motor-home / Camping / Marine systems, as well as Commercial and Industrial Stand-Alone applications, including in the Security and Instrumentation, Telecommunication, Transport & Traffic industries, as well as being suitable for Rural Electrification and Solar Home Systems.
Standard Features:
- Versions Available:
- 15A or 30A
- 12v/24v or 48v (48v upon request from manufacturing plant)
- Negative or Positive ground (positive ground upon request from manufacturing plant)
- Estimated 15 year life
- PWM series battery charging (not shunt)
- 3 Position battery select: Gel, Sealed or Flooded
- Very accurate control and measurement
- Jumper to eliminate telecom noise
- Parallel for up to 300A
- Temperature Compensation
- Tropicalization: Conformal Coating, Stainless Steel Fasteners & Anodised Aluminium heat sink
- No Switching or measurement in the grounded leg
- 100% Solid State
- Very Low voltage drops
- Current Compensated low voltage disconnect (LVD)
- LED's indicate battery status and faults
- Capable of 25% overloads
- Remote battery voltage sense terminals
ProStar Options:
- Digital Meter
- Highly Accurate voltage and current display
- Low self-consumption (1mA)
- Includes manual disconnect button
- Displays 5 different protection functions and disconnect conditions
- Self-diagnostics (self-test) provides a comprehensive test of the ProStar
- Displays 9 different controller status parameters, including temperature
- Displays detected faults
- Positive Ground
- Remote Temperature Probe
*NOTE: Due to high current in-rush on start up, Inverters are to be wired to the battery bank and not directly to the Load Terminal. Doing so could damage Regulator and void warranty.
PS-15 |
PS-30 |
PS-15M-48V |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Max. Solar Current: |
15 Amps |
30 Amps |
15 Amps |
Max. Load Current: |
15 Amps |
30 Amps |
15 Amps |
Options: |
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Digital Meter: Yes Positive Ground: Yes Remote Temp. Probe: Yes |
Digital Meter: Standard Positive Ground: Yes Remote Temp. Probe: Yes |
Min. Battery Voltage to Operate: |
8 V |
8 V |
15 V |
Regulation Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Float Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Equalizations Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Load Disconnect Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Load Reconnect Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Self-Consumption: |
22 mA @ 12 Volt
25 mA @ 24 Volt
28 mA @ 48 Volt |
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Voltage Accuracy: |
12V: +/– 40mV (typical) 24V: +/– 60 mV (typical) 48V: +/– 80 mV (typical) |
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Ambient Temperature: |
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Storage Temperature: |
–55°C to +80°C |
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Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
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Electronic Protections: |
Solar: Overload, short-circuit, high voltage Load: Overload, short-circuit, high voltage Battery: High voltage All: Reverse polarity, high temperature, lightning and transient surges Reverse current at night |
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Battery Charging: |
4-stage charging: Bulk, Absorption, Float, Equalize |
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Dimensions: |
153 x 105 x 55cm (6.01 x 4.14 x 2.17 inches) |
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Weight: |
12 oz (0.34 kg) |
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| Certifications: | CE and RoHS Compliant, Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility |
Morningstar Sunlight
Morningstar’s advanced SunLight solar lighting controller combines the SunSaver design with a micro controller for automatic lighting control functions.
The SunLight Solar controller has a range of built-in Lighting control functions. You can select between the different functions by the simple turn of a dial on the controller face. Options range from turning lights on at dusk and off at dawn, having lights turn on for a select amount of time after dusk, or having lights turn on at dusk, off a couple of hours later, and on again for a few hours before dawn. (see the lighting control options diagram below for more info on program types)
The SunSaver Solar controllers are designed for Caravan / Motor-home / Camping / Marine systems, as well as Commercial and Industrial Stand-Alone applications, including in Lighting and Transport & Traffic industries.
This technology provides:
- Proven Reliability
- Precise Lighting Control
- PWM Battery Charging
Operation:
- Rotary digital switch to select among 10 lighting options (see back)
- Test button flashes red LED to confirm correct rotary switch selection
- Test button turns lights on for 5 minutes (in LVD limited to 3 times)
- LVD overrides lighting timer
- Sunrise overrides lighting timer
- Timer accuracy is within 2 seconds
Four Versions Available:
- 12 Volt: 10 and 20 amp ratings
- 24 Volt: 10 and 20 amp ratings
Features:
- Microcontroller digital accuracy
- Fully automatic operation
- Ten field adjustable lighting control options
- Special on/off/on functions
- Manual test capability
- LVD override protection
- Detects day and night using the PV array
- Suitable for all 12/24 Vdc lamps
- Sealed/Flooded battery select
- Temperature compensation
- Parallel with a SunSaver for 40 amps solar
- Includes SunSaver battery charging circuit
*NOTE: Due to high current in-rush on start up, Inverters are to be wired to the battery bank and not directly to the Load Terminal. Doing so could damage Regulator and void warranty.
SL-10L-12V |
SL-10L-24V |
SL-20L-12V |
SL-20L-24V |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Maximum Voltage: |
30 Volt |
50 Volt |
30 Volt |
50 Volt |
Rated Solar Input: |
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20 Amps |
10 Amps |
20 Amps |
PV Short Circuit Rating: |
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12.5 Amps |
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12.5 Amps |
Rated Load: |
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20 Amps |
10 Amps |
20 Amps |
Regulation Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Load Disconnect Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Load Reconnect Voltage:* *Note: Values are for 12V Use 2x for 24v and 4x for 48v |
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Self-Consumption: |
8 mA @ 12 Volt
9 mA @ 24 Volt
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Ambient Temperature: |
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Storage Temperature: |
–55°C to +80°C |
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Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
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Dimensions: |
168 x 55 x 34cm (6.60 x 2.18 x 1.32 inches) |
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Weight: |
0.29kg / 10 oz. |
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| Certifications: | CE and RoHS Compliant, Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility |
Morningstar TriStar
Morningstar’s TriStar Controller is a three-function controller that provides reliable solar battery charging, load control or diversion regulation. The controller operates in one of these modes at a time and two or more controllers may be used to provide multiple functions.
The TriStar uses advanced technology and automated production to provide exciting new features at a competitive cost. The optional TriStar meter is the most sophisticated and informative controller meter on the market. The controller is UL listed and is designed for both solar home systems and professional applications.
Charge Control
- Constant voltage series PWM design to provide highly efficient battery charging
- 4-Stage charging to increase battery capacity and life: Bulk Charge, PWM Regulation, Float and Equalise
- Parallel for Larger Solar Arrays up to 300 Amps or more
Load Control
- Starts large loads including motors and pumps with no damage to the controller
- Allows inrush current to 300 Amps
- Electronic sort-circuit and overload protection with automatic re-connect
- LVD is current compensated and has delay to avoid false disconnects
Diversion Control
- May be used for Solar, Wind, or Hydroelectric
- To protect against battery overcharge, excess energy is diverted from primary battery to a secondary battery or alternate DC resistive load
- PWM reduces power into diversion load during over current conditions
TriStar Options:
Tristar Meter - 2 x 16 display, mounts to controller and provides system and controller information, data logging, bar graphs and choice of 5 languages
TriStar Remote Meter - Includes 30m of cable for mounting meter away from the controller
Remote Temperature Sensor - Provides temperature compensated charging by measuring temperature at the battery (10m cable)
Key Features & Benefits:
Highest Reliability - Large heatsink and conservative design enables operating at full ratings to 60°c. No Need to de-rate.
More Power - Ratings to 60A at 48VDC will handle solar arrays up to 4kW.
Communications Capability - RS232 connects to a personal computer for custom settings, data logging and remote monitoring and control.
Fully Adjustable - DIP switch provides user with a choice of 7 different digital presets and custom settings via RS232.
Extensive Electronic Protection - Fully Protected against reverse polarity, short circuit, overcurrent, high temperature and over voltage.
Better Battery Charging - Connecting battery sense wires and optional remote temperature sensor will improve control accuracy. Constant voltage series PWM algorithm increases battery capacity and life.
More Information - 3 LED's to indicate status, faults and alarms. Optional meter displays extensive system and controller information, automatic self-test and reset capabilities. Meter connection via RJ-11 phone jack.
TS-45 |
TS-60 |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Rated Solar, Load or Diversion Current: |
45 Amps |
60 Amps |
Maximum solar voltage (Voc): |
125V |
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Minimum Voltage to Operate: |
9V |
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Voltage Accuracy: |
12/24V ≤0.1% ±50mV 48V ≤0.1% ±100mV |
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Self-Consumption: |
Controller: <20mA Meter: 7.5mA |
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Operating Ambient Temperature: |
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Storage Temperature: |
–55°C to +85°C |
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Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
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Tropicalization: |
Conformal coating on both sides of all printed circuit boards |
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Electronic Protections: |
Reverse polarity protection (any combination) Short-circuit protection Overcurrent protection Lightning and transient surge protection using 4500W transient voltage suppressors High temperature protection via automatic current reduction or complete shut down Prevents reverse current from battery at night |
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Dimensions: |
260.4 mm x 127.0 mm x 71.0 mm / 10.25 inch x 5.0 inch x 2.8 inch |
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Weight: |
1.6 kg / 3.5 lb |
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| Optional Extras: | TriStar Meter — 2 x 16 display mounts to controller and provides system and controller information, data logging, bar graphs and choice of 5 languages TriStar Remote Meter — Includes 30 meters of cable for mounting meter away from the controller Remote Temperature Sensor — Provides temperature compensated charging by measuring temperature at the battery (10 meter cable) |
| Certifications: | CE Compliant • ETL Listed (UL 1741) • cETL (CSA-C22.2 No.107.1-95) • TUV (IEC 62109-1) • Complies with U.S. National Electric Code • Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility • MET Labs (EN 60335-1, EN 60335-2-29) |
Mornignstar SunSaver Duo
Morningstar’s SunSaver Duo is an advanced PWM two battery controller for RV’s, caravans, boats and cottages. This product will charge two separate and isolated batteries at the same time, such as a “house” and an engine battery, based on user selectable priorities.
The SunSaver Duo employs Morningstar’s legendary SunSaver controller technology, whose long-term track record for high reliability and improved battery charging is well-recognized in the solar industry. This controller also includes a backlit remote meter which may be mounted in or on a wall, and displays digital and pictorial status information about the solar power system.
The SunSaver Duo is epoxy encapsulated for environmental protection, is user adjustable via DIP switch or connection to a personal computer, and has an optional remote temperature sensor.
Key Features and Benefits
Two Battery Charging: Solar charge current is shared between the two batteries based on a user selectable priority. When one battery is fully charged, all of the charge current flows to the other battery.
Provides Useful Information: The remote meter and LED’s display system status data and any system errors. Custom icons and back lighting make the meter easy to read and understand.
Lower Cost: Two battery charging eliminates the added cost of two separate solar charging systems and the need for isolation between the batteries.
Easy to Install: The controller is installed near the batteries using the clearly labeled large wire terminals. The remote meter may be mounted in the wall or on the wall using the included frame. Also includes the meter wiring with RJ-11 connector.
Longer Battery Life: Four stage series PWM pulse charging and temperature compensation increases the useful life of the batteries.
Extensive Electronic Protections: The controller will not be damaged by wiring mistakes during installation. There are no fuses to replace, and the controller will automatically re-set after a wiring mistake.
Highly Reliable: Epoxy encapsulation protects the controller against dust and high humidity. Efficient electronics and a conservative thermal design allow the controller to operate reliably at high temperatures. Five year warranty and estimated 15 year life.
SSD-25RM |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Rated Solar Input Current: |
25 Amps |
Maximum solar voltage (Voc): |
30 Volts |
Min. Battery Voltage: |
1 Volt |
Max. Battery Voltage: |
15 Volt |
Self-Consumption: |
Controller: 6-10 mA Remote Meter: 6-15 mA |
Operating Ambient Temperature: |
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Storage Temperature: |
–55°C to +85°C |
Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
Tropicalization: |
Controller - Epoxy encapsulation Anodized aluminum case Corrosion resistant terminals Meter - Conformal coated printed circuit board |
Electronic Protections: |
Solar Short Circuit • Solar Over Current • Reverse Polarity • High Temperature • Lightning • Reverse Current at Night |
Regulation Voltage: |
Sealed Battery - 14.1 volts (at 25°C, 77°F) Flooded Battery - 14.4 volts (at 25°C, 77°F) |
Float Voltage: |
13.7 volts |
Equalization Voltage*: |
14.8 volts |
Temp. Compensation: |
–30 millivolts per °C (25°C reference) |
Type of Charging: |
Series PWM 4 stage: bulk, PWM, float, and equalize* *used on flooded battery only |
Battery Charging Priority: |
90% / 10% 50% / 50% Customize via PC connection |
Dimensions: |
Controller - 17.0 x 5.6 x 4.1 cm / 6.7 x 2.2 x 1.6 in. Meter - 9.7 x 9.7 x 3.1 cm / 3.8 x 3.8 x 1.2 in. Meter Back -7.4 cm / 2.9 in. diameter 2.8 cm / 1.1 in. deep Fits 7.6 cm / 3 in. round hole |
Weight: |
Controller - 260 g / 0.57 lb Meter - 135 g / 0.30 lb |
| Optional Extras: | Remote Temperature Sensor — Provides temperature compensated charging by measuring temperature at the battery (10 meter cable) |
| Certifications: | CE Compliant • Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility |
Morningstar SunGuard
Morningstar’s SunGuard™ is the world’s leading single module controller. They have combined all the advantages of their SunSaver charging circuit with less expensive packaging to provide an economical controller for small PV panels.
SunGuard’s technology provides:
• Exceptional Reliability
• PWM Battery Charging
• Consistent High Quality
• Low Cost
The SunGuard is able to match the quality and
performance of the world-leading SunSaver
controllers because:
• SunGuard's are made on the same high
speed, automated production lines
• SunGuard's use the same charging circuit
• SunGuard's use the same high quality
Key Features and Benefits
- Series design (not shunt)
- 100% solid state
- True 0 to 100% PWM duty cycle
- Set point accuracy to 60 mV
- Temperature compensation
- Rated for 25% overloads
- No need to de rate
- Lightning protected with 1500 W transorbs
- Self-consumption is 6 mA
- Fully encapsulated in epoxy potting
- ABS plastic, impact-resistant case
- Outdoor rated, Hypalon connecting wires
| Certifications: | CE Compliant • Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility |
Morningstar SunKeeper
Morningstar’s SunKeeper solar controller provides a low cost regulated output directly from the solar module to maximize battery life in small solar power applications. The SunKeeper is epoxy encapsulated and rated for outdoor use. By mounting directly to the module junction box* and wiring through the junction box knockout, the connection is weather-proof. This eliminates the need for an additional housing for the controller.
The SunKeeper is available in a 6 amp or 12 amp version (both at 12 volts DC). To withstand the high temperatures at the solar module, the controller has been designed using extremely efficient power electronics and is rated to 70°C. The SunKeeper is also certified for use in Class 1, Division 2 hazardous locations, making it an ideal controller for solar powered oil/gas applications.
Key Features and Benefits:
- High Reliability: Rated to 70°C to operate in high temperatures at the solar module. More reliable than controllers mounted inside the junction box. Uses very low on-resistance power MOSFET’s. No need to re-rate.
- Outdoor Rated: ETL approved for outdoor use without an additional enclosure. Rugged IP65, UV resistant case. Epoxy encapsulated printed circuit board and watertight connection to the module junction box.
- Extensive Electronic Protections: Fully protected against reverse polarity, short circuit, overcurrent, lightning and transient surges, high temperature and reverse current at night.
- Longer Battery Life: Series PWM with 3 stage charging: bulk, PWM regulation and float. Includes temperature compensation at the controller or alternatively at the battery when using optional remote temperature sensor. Able to charge a zero voltage battery.
- Rated for Hazardous Locations: Specifically designed for solar power systems in the oil/gas industry. Approved for use in Class 1, Division 2, Groups A,B,C,D.
- More Information: Bicolor LED is easy to read from the ground when the solar module is pole-mounted. Indicates solar charging, regulation, normal nighttime operation and any controller or system faults.
- Easy to Install: Fits standard half inch conduit knockout (PG 13.5, M20) in module junction box. Quickly fastens with included locknut. Wires have fork connectors for easy connection to solar module terminals.
SK-6 |
SK-12 |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Rated Solar Input Current: |
6 Amps |
12 Amps |
Maximum solar voltage (Voc): |
30 Volts |
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Min. Battery Voltage: |
0 Volt |
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Self-Consumption: |
Charging - 7 mA Night - 2 mA |
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Voltage Accuracy: |
± 150 mV |
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Operating Ambient Temperature: |
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Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
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Tropicalization: |
Encapsulated in epoxy UV resistant plas c enclosure Conduit connec on with rubber gasket seal |
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Electronic Protections: |
Reverse Polarity • Short Circuit • Overcurrent • Lightning and Transient Surges • High Temperature • Reverse Current at Night |
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Regulation Voltage: |
14.1 volts (at 25°C, 77°F) |
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Float Voltage: |
13.7 volts (at 25°C, 77°F) |
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Temp. Compensation: (3 choices) |
Reading temp at controller: –30 mV / °C Attaching remote temp sensor: –30 mV / °C Disable temp comp: Defaults to 25°C |
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Type of Charging: |
Series PWM 3 stage: Bulk, PWM and Float Ability to Charge a Zero Voltage Battery |
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Dimensions: |
99 x 51 x 13 mm (3.9 x 2.0 x 0.5 inches) |
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Weight: |
0.11 kg / 0.25 lbs |
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Bi-Color LED: |
Green Blink 3 Times - Succesfull Installation Green On - Solar Charging battery Green Blink Fast - In Regulation Green Blink Slow - Normal Nighttime Operation Red On - Controller Damaged Red Blink - System Problem LED Off - No Power |
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| Options: | Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS) |
| Certifications: | • CE Compliant • Hazardous Locations: Successful installation on Class 1, Division 2, Groups A-D, UL 1604 CSA 22.2 No. 213-M1987 • Complies with U.S. National Electric Code • Manufactured in a Certified ISO 9001 Facility |
*It is not recommended to mount regulator to back of panel due to temperature build up. When in full sunlight, the panel and regulator both produce heat. Both Panel and Regulator have operating temperature ratings which if exceeded will automatically shut down output from panel and regulator.
Morningstar SHS
Morningstar’s SHS™ controller was specifically designed to meet the needs of rural solar home systems in developing countries. It provides many features and benefits not available on other controllers including automatic lighting control.
Morningstar’s well-known high quality and reliability is now available in a low cost solar controller. The SHS Controller is ideal for rural electrification systems with one to three solar panels. This controller meets World Bank specifications and provides many features and benefits. The SHS Night Light version has automatic lighting control.
Benefits of a Solar Controller: - It is important to include a controller in a solar power system.
- Reduces Cost of Battery Replacements
- The low voltage disconnect will increase battery life.
- The loads are automatically disconnected when the battery is low and automatically reconnected after the battery is recharged.
- Complete charging will increase battery life and storage capacity.
- The controller will maximize the amount of solar energy into the battery and avoid drying out the battery.
- The low voltage disconnect will increase battery life.
- Provides useful Information
- LEDs display status information and battery level which helps the user to better operate the solar power system.
Advantages of the ShS Controller: - Morningstar’s SHS controller has many advantages compared to other controllers:
Low Cost
- The SHS was specifically designed to meet the needs of the rural electrification market. The low cost resulted from using the latest electronic technology and high volume manufacturing.
- High Reliability
- All our controllers are designed for high quality and high reliability.
The SHS controller is 100% solid state, has a low failure rate and
will last a long time.
- All our controllers are designed for high quality and high reliability.
The SHS controller is 100% solid state, has a low failure rate and
will last a long time.
- Electronic Protections
- The SHS has built-in electronic fuses that do not require replacement.
Any wiring mistakes during installation will not damage the controller.
- The SHS has built-in electronic fuses that do not require replacement.
Any wiring mistakes during installation will not damage the controller.
- Tropicalization
- The SHS electronics are protected with a moisture-tight coating,
minimizing damage from humidity and from nesting insects.
- The SHS electronics are protected with a moisture-tight coating,
minimizing damage from humidity and from nesting insects.
- Easy to Use
- The SHS controller is fully automatic and requires no adjustments
or user selections.
- The SHS controller is fully automatic and requires no adjustments
or user selections.
SHS-6 |
SHS-10 |
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Nominal System Voltage: |
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Rated Solar Input Current: |
6 Amps (100W) |
10 Amps (170w) |
Operating Ambient Temperature: |
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Humidity: |
100% non-condensing |
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Tropicalization: |
Circuit Board — conformal coated Terminals — corrosion protected |
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Electronic Protections: |
Short Circuit and OverCurrent — Solar and Load Reverse Polarity — Solar, Load, Battery Reverse Current at night High Voltage — Load Lightning — Solar, Load, Battery |
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Regulation Voltage: |
14.3 volts (at 25°C, 77°F) |
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Low Voltage Disconnect: |
11.5 Volts |
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Low Voltage Reconnect: |
12.6 Volts |
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Temp. Compensation: |
–30 millivolts per °C (25°C reference) |
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Type of Charging: |
Series PWM 4 stage: bulk, PWM, float, and equalize* *used on flooded battery only |
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Battery Charging Priority: |
90% / 10% 50% / 50% Customize via PC connection |
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Dimensions: |
Controller - 17.0 x 5.6 x 4.1 cm / 6.7 x 2.2 x 1.6 in. Meter - 9.7 x 9.7 x 3.1 cm / 3.8 x 3.8 x 1.2 in. Meter Back -7.4 cm / 2.9 in. diameter 2.8 cm / 1.1 in. deep Fits 7.6 cm / 3 in. round hole |
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Weight: |
Controller - 260 g / 0.57 lb Meter - 135 g / 0.30 lb |
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| Optional Extras: | Remote Temperature Sensor — Provides temperature compensated charging by measuring temperature at the battery (10 meter cable) |
| Certifications: | CE Compliant • Manufactured in a certified ISO 9001 facility |