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A Solar Controller (or Charge Controller / Regulator) is an essential component of your photovoltaic solar system. The Controller maintains the life of the battery by protecting it from overcharging. When your battery has reached a 100% state of charge, the Controller prevents overcharging by limiting the current flowing into the batteries from your solar array.
The GP-PWM-30-SB uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology and a unique four stage charging system that includes an optional equalize setting to charge and protect your battery bank. The GP-PWM30-SB features an LCD digital display that shows the charge current of the solar array, battery voltage and battery state of charge.
The GP-PWM-30-SB is intended for use at 12 VDC nominal system voltage and is rated for a maximum continuous DC input current of 37.5A and input voltage of 35VDC.
Per the National Electric Code (NEC) article 690.7 and 690.8, PV module nameplate ratings at Standard Test Conditions (STC) must be multiplied by required values (typically 1.25 for both voltage and current) to obtain the true voltage and continuous current available from the module.
Applying the NEC factors, the maximum allowable nameplate PV Panel rated Isc is 30A (30A x 1.25 = 37.5A), and the maximum voltage, Voc is 28VDC (28VDC x 1.25 = 35VDC).
The voltage and current ratings of all equipment connected to PV panels must be capable of accepting the voltage and current levels available from PV panels installed in the field.
The GP-PWM-30-SB is suitable for use with lead acid batteries (vented, GEL, or AGM) as well as some lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries that are supplied with a Battery Management System (BMS).
To protect the battery against over-discharge this function automatically switches off the USB output port when battery voltage is lower than 11.0 VDC. As soon as the battery reaches a voltage of 12.8 VDC the USB output port is switched on again.
Description | Value | Dimensions (H x W x D): 149 x 98 x 32 mm 5.87 x 3.86 x 1.26 in Weight: 260 g / 9.2 oz Maximum Wire Gauge: #4 AWG Warranty: 5 years
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Model | GP-PWM-30-SB | |
Nominal System Voltage | 12 VDC | |
Range of Battery Input Voltage | 9.0 – 15.5 VDC | |
Maximum Solar Continuous DC Charge Current Input | 37.5 VDC | |
Charging Output DC Voltage Range | 9.0 – 14.9 VDC | |
Maximum Solar DC Input Voltage | 35 VDC | |
Maximum Series Fuse or Circuit Breaker Solar/Battery | 15 A | |
Operating Consumption (Display backlight on) | 15 mA | |
Operating Consumption (Display backlight off) | 6 mA | |
Battery Types Supported | Vented and Sealed Lead Acid (GEL, AGM, Flooded, Lithium (LFP), etc.) | |
Bulk/Absorption Voltage (Sealed/GEL, AGM, Flooded) | 14.1/14.4/14.4 VDC (25°C / 77°F), 30min / Day or 2hr if battery voltage < 12.3 VDC |
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Absorption Voltage (LiFePO 4 ) | 14.4V 30min / Day | |
Float Voltage (Sealed/Gel, AGM, Flooded) | 13.7V (25°C / 77°F) | |
Float Voltage (LiFePO 4 ) | 14.0V | |
Equalization Voltage (Sealed only) | 14.9V (25°C / 77°F), 2h / 28 Days or if battery voltage < 12.1 VDC | |
Temperature Compensation (Sealed/Gel, AGM, Flooded) | 24mV/ºC / -13mV/ºF | |
USB charger | 5V, 1500mA | |
Low Voltage Disconnect (USB) | 11.0 VDC Reconnects once battery reaches: 12.8V for Sealed/Gel, AGM, Flooded 12.2V for LiFePO 4 | |
Operating Temperature | 40 to 85°C / - 40 to 185°F | |
Display Operating Temperature | 10 to 55°C / 14 to 131°F | |
Humidity | 99% N.C. | |
Protection | Battery Reverse Polarity, Solar Array Reverse Polarity, Over Temperature, PV Short Circuit, |
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR MODEL GP-PWM-30-SB THAT SHOULD BE FOLLOWED DURING INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE GP-PWM-30-SB.
| Disconnect all power sources | Electricity can be very dangerous. Installation should be performed only by a licensed electrician or qualified personnel. |
![]() | Battery and wiring safety | Observe all safety precautions of the battery manufacturer when handling or working around batteries. When charging, batteries produce hydrogen gas, which is highly explosive. |
![]() | Wiring connections | Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Loose connections may generate sparks and heat. Be sure to check connections one week after installation to ensure they are still tight. |
![]() | Work safely | Wear protective eyewear and appropriate clothing during installation. Use extreme caution when working with electricity and when handling and working around batteries. |
| Observe correct polarity | Reverse polarity of the battery terminals and array will cause the controller to give a warning tone. The controller will not function unless battery terminals are connected to a battery with proper polarity. Failure to correct this fault could damage the controller. |
![]() | Do not exceed the GP-PWM- 30-SB Amp current and max voltage ratings | The maximum current of the solar system is the sum of parallel-connected PV module – rated short circuit Currents (Isc) multiplied by 1.25. The resulting system current is not to exceed 37.5A. If your solar system exceeds this value, contact your dealer for a suitable controller alternative. |
Do not exceed the GP-PWM- 30-SB max voltage ratings | The maximum voltage of the array is the sum of the PV module–rated open-circuit voltage of the series connected modules multiplied by 1.25 (or by a value from NEC 690.7 provided in Table 690.7 A). The resulting voltage is not to exceed 35V. If your solar system exceeds this value, contact your dealer for a suitable controller alternative. |
NOTE: If the GP-PWM-30-SB Controller was purchased with a Go Power! Solar Power Kit, then UV resistant wire is included. For instructions regarding the Go Power! Solar Power Kit installation, please refer to the Installation Guide provided with the Kit.
The GP-PWM-30-SB is designed to be mounted flush against a wall, out of the way but easily visible.
The GP-PWM-30-SB should be:
In an RV, the most common controller location is above the refrigerator. The wire from the solar array most commonly enters the RV through the fridge vent on the roof or by using the Go Power! Cable Entry Plate (sold separately) that allows installers to run wires through any part of the roof. PV connections should connect directly to the controller. Positive and negative battery connections must connect directly from the controller to the batteries. Use of a positive or negative distribution bus is allowed between the controller and battery as long as it is properly sized, electrically safe and an adequate wire size is maintained.
![]() | Do not exceed the GP-PWM- 30-SB Max current ratings | The maximum current of the solar system is the sum of parallel-connected PV module– rated short circuit Currents (Isc) multiplied by 1.25. The resulting system current is not to exceed 37.5A. If your solar system exceeds this value, contact your dealer for a suitable controller alternative. |
Do not exceed the GP-PWM- 30-SB Max voltage ratings | The maximum voltage of the array is the sum of the PV module–rated open-circuit voltage of the series connected modules multiplied by 1.25 (or by a value from NEC 690.7 provided Table 690.7 A). The resulting voltage is not to exceed 35V. If your solar system exceeds this value, contact your dealer for a suitable controller alternative. |
Wire type is recommended to be a stranded copper UV-resistant wire. Wire fatigue and the likelihood of a loose connection are greatly reduced in stranded wire compared to solid wire. Wire gauge should be able to sustain rated current and minimize voltage drop.
Wire Strip Length
Strip wires to a length of approximately 3/8 in (9 mm, as per strip gauge).
Suggested Minimum Wire Gauge
(Cable length 25 ft. max. from solar array to battery bank)
80-Watt Solar Module | #10 Wire Gauge |
100-Watt Solar Module | #10 Wire Gauge |
160-Watt Solar Module | #10 Wire Gauge |
170-Watt Solar Module | #10 Wire Gauge |
190-Watt Solar Module | #10 Wire Gauge |
Identify the polarity (positive and negative) on the cable used for the battery and solar module. Use colored wires or mark the wire ends with tags. Although the GP-PWM-30-SB is protected, a reverse polarity contact may damage the unit.
Wiring the GP-PWM-30-SB. Wire the GP-PWM-30-SB according to the wiring schematic. Run wires from the solar array and the batteries to the location of the GP-PWM-30-SB. Keep the solar array covered with an opaque material until all wiring is completed.
All wiring must be in accordance to National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70. Always use appropriate circuit protection on any conductor attached to a battery.
Stranded Copper 90°C Wire | |
Wire Size AWG | Rated Torque (in-lbs) |
14 | 20 |
12 | 20 |
10 | 20 |
With battery power attached, the controller should power up and display information. Connect the solar wiring to the controller and remove the opaque material from the solar array. The negative solar array and battery wiring must be connected directly to the controller for proper operation. Do not connect the negative solar array or negative battery controller wiring to the chassis of the vehicle.
This unit is not provided with a GFDI device. This charge controller must be used with an external GFDI device as required by Article 690 of the National Electric Code for the installation location.
This diagram is valid only for version 1.5 and newer. Version 1.4 and older have different terminal locations.
The GP-PWM-30-SB Maximum 37.5A rating is based on a 30 amp total maximum short circuit current rating (Isc) from the parallel solar modules nameplate ratings. The National Electric Code specifies the PV equipment/system rating to be 125% of the maximum Isc from the PV module nameplate ratings (1.25 times 30 = 37.5A). Use the wiring diagram (below) to connect your battery to the battery terminals on the solar controller. First, connect the battery to the controller, and then connect the solar panel to the controller.
NOTE: The fuse or breaker used should be no larger than 50 amps.
NOTE: The controller will not work unless there is a battery connected to the battery terminals with at least 9V.
When the photovoltaic (solar) array is exposed to light, it supplies a dc voltage to this equipment
When the GP-PWM-30-SB is connected to the battery, the controller will go into Power Up mode.
Icons Displayed: All segments of the numerical display; backlight blinks. Depending on the battery voltage when the GP-PWM-30-SB Power Up occurs, the controller may do a Boost Charge or quickly go into Float Charge. The Charging Profile selected will commence the following day after a Power Up (refer to the Charging Profile Chart for more details).
To select the battery charging profile, press and hold the B Button. This will cause the current battery type to flash.
Then, press the B Button to toggle through the profile options: Sealed/Gel, AGM/Lithium (LFP) or Flooded.
To confirm the battery profile, press and hold the A Button for 3 seconds.
Non-volatile memory: Any settings made on the GP-PWM-30-SB will be saved even when the power has been disconnected from the controller.
Refer to the Battery Charge Profile Chart below for details on each profile.
Battery Type | SEALED /GEL | AGM | FLOODED | LFP |
Float Charge @ 25°C: | 13.7 VDC (+/- 0.1V) | N/A | ||
Bulk/Absorption Charge @ 25°C: Set to 30 minutes every morning. Applied for 2 hours if the battery voltage drops below 12.3 volts. | 14.1 VDC (+/- 0.1V) | 14.4 VDC (+/- 0.1V) | 14.4 VDC (+/- 0.1V) | N/A |
Equalization Charge @ 25°C: Applied for 2 hours every 28 days and if the battery voltage drops below 12.1 volts. | N/A | N/A | 14.9 VDC (+/-0.1V) | N/A |
Absorption Charge voltage for LiFePO 4 : Set to 30 minutes every morning. | N/A | 14.4 VDC | ||
Float Charge voltage for LiFePO 4: | N/A | 14.0 VDC | ||
Temperature Compensation: | -24mV/K | None | ||
If a charging cycle is unable to complete in a single day, it will continue the following day. The terms SEALED/GEL, AGM, LFP (Lithium) and FLOODED are generic battery designations. Choose the charging profile that works best with your battery manufacturer's recommendations. |
NOTE: If PV power is insufficient or too many loads are drawing power from the battery, the controller will not be able to charge the battery to the target charging voltage.
Auto Equalize: The GP-PWM-30-SB has an automatic equalize feature that will charge and recondition your batteries at least once a month at a higher voltage to ensure that any excess sulfation is removed.
NOTE: This mode will not be entered unless you are using a flooded battery.
To toggle between Battery Voltage, PV Charging Current, Battery State of Charge (SOC), and ampere hours charged since last reset, press the B Button.
Push the B Button to show the battery voltage.
Icons Displayed: Battery SOC, Volt Symbol (V)
Push the B Button to show the PV charging current.
Icons Displayed: Ampere Symbol (A), Battery SOC
Push the B Button to show the battery state of charge (shown as a percentage).
Icons Displayed: Battery SOC, Percent Symbol (%)
A value of 100% will only be displayed after a Boost or Equalize charge completes.
Push the B Button to show the number of amp hours charged since the last reset.
Icons Displayed: Amp hours charged, Amp hour symbol (Ah) or kiloamp hour symbol (kAh)
To reset the count of ampere hours charged, toggle to the ampere hours charged. Press and hold the A Button for 6 seconds to reset the counter to zero.
If the GP-PWM-30-SB experiences a battery over voltage (15.5V), the controller will stop operating, and the display will begin to flash with all icons. The controller will resume operating when the error is cleared.
Icons Displayed: All symbols
If the battery voltage reaches 11 volts, the battery SOC symbol will show the text "LOW" beneath it. The controller will continue operating in this condition, and will only stop operating if the voltage drops below 9 volts.
Icons Displayed: Battery SOC Symbol, LOW
Symbol | Indicator For: |
![]() | Day Time: PV Charge Current |
![]() | Night Time |
![]() | Battery Voltage |
![]() | Battery State of Charge |
SEALED | Sealed/Gel |
AGM/LFP | AGM/LFP |
FLOODED | Flooded |
Other Symbols | ||
![]() | USB charger on (When charger is off, no symbol will show) | |
LOW | Battery voltage is lower than 11.0 VDC | |
Whole display will start to blink | Battery voltage > 15.5 VDC | |
Battery State of Charge | ||
Symbol | Battery Voltage | |
![]() | Shows only after full Boost or Equalization Cycle | |
![]() | >= 12.6 VDC | |
![]() | >= 11.8 -12.6 VDC | |
![]() | > 11.0 -11.8 VDC | |
![]() | <= 11.0 VDC | |
100% | Shows only after full Boost or Equalization Cycle | |
90% | >= 12.8 VDC | |
![]() | <12.8 VDC and > 11.0 VDC | |
0% | <= 11.0 VDC |
The GP-PWM-30-SB offers a standard USB connector for delivering 5.0 VDC to small mobile appliances such as cell phones, tablets or small music players. This charging port is capable of supplying up to 1500 mA of current.
Remove the rubber cover of the USB terminal to access the terminal.
The USB charging port is always active when the USB symbol appears on the display.
The controller disables the USB charger automatically if the battery voltage drops below 11.0 VDC. If there is enough current from the PV panel/array available to charge the Battery to above 12.8 VDC, the USB terminal will be enabled again.
Do not connect the charging device anywhere else! USB-Negative contact is connected to battery negative.
Before a problem is suspected with the system, read this section. There are numerous events that may appear as problems but are in fact perfectly normal. Please visit gpelectric.com for the most up-to-date FAQs.
It seems like my flooded batteries are losing water over time.
Flooded batteries may need to have distilled water added periodically to replace fluid loss during charging. Excessive water loss during a short period of time indicates the possibility of overcharging or aging batteries.
When charging, my flooded batteries are emitting gas.
During charging, hydrogen gas is generated within the battery. The gas bubbles stir the battery acid, allowing it to receive a fuller state of charge. Important: Ensure batteries are in a well-ventilated space.
My voltmeter shows a different reading than the GP-PWM-30-SB display.
The meter value on the GP-PWM-30-SB display is an approximate reading intended for indication purposes only. There is an approximate 0.1 volt inherent error present that may be accentuated when compared with readings from another voltmeter.
There may be a slight difference between the battery voltage displayed on the GP-PWM-30-SB display and the battery voltage measured at the battery terminals. When troubleshooting using a voltmeter, check both the battery voltage at the GP-PWM-30-SB controller terminals and battery voltage at the battery terminals. If a difference of more than 0.5 volts is noted, this indicates a large voltage drop possibly caused by loose connections, long wire runs, small wire gauge, faulty wiring, a faulty voltmeter, or all the above. Consult the Suggested Minimum Wire Gauge chart in Section 5 for wiring suggestions and check all connections.
What causes a warning signal and when are the warnings triggered?
Connection | Notes | LCD | |
Battery reverse polarity | "POL" on LCD and constant audible alarm | ![]() | |
PV reverse polarity | "POL" on LCD and constant audible alarm | Battery must be connected with correct polarity | ![]() |
Why does the battery SOC% never reach 100%?
A 100% value will only appear after a 30 min Boost at 14.4V or Equalize charge has completed. The charge voltage must be maintained for an extended period of time to replenish the energy in the battery bank back to its rated capacity.
If the charge voltage cannot be maintained continuously, then the actual time it takes to complete Boost or Equalize charging may take much longer than 2 hours, even more than 1 day.
If loads are consuming more power than the solar panels can supply, then the battery bank cannot be charged to 100%.
Troubleshooting Problems is split into three sub-sections, grouped by symptoms involving key components. Components considered irrelevant in a diagnosis are denoted 'Not Applicable' (N/A). A multimeter or voltmeter may be required for some procedures listed.
NOTE: It is imperative all electrical precautions stated in the Warning Section and outlined in the Installation Section are followed. Even if it appears the system is not functioning, it should be treated as a fully functioning system generating live power.
Display Reading: Blank
Time of Day: Daytime/Nighttime
Possible Causes:
Battery or fuse connection and/or solar array connection (Daytime only) or battery or fuse connection (Nighttime only).
How to tell:
Remedy:
Check all connections from the controller to the battery including checking for correct wire polarity. Check that all connections are clean, tight, and secure. Ensure the battery voltage is above 6 volts.
Display Reading: Nighttime
Time of Day: Daytime
Possible Causes:
Panel is covered by something; PV panel is too dirty to supply a high enough voltage to charge the battery; PV panel is not connected.
Remedy:
Check the panel and to ensure it is not obscured. Clean the panel if it is dirty. Check that PV cables are connected to the controller.
Voltage Reading: Inaccurate
Time of Day: Daytime/Nighttime
Possible Cause:
Excessive voltage drop from batteries to controller due to loose connections, small wire gauge, or both.
How to tell:
Remedy:
Check all connections from the controller to the battery including checking for correct wire polarity. Check that all connections are clean, tight, and secure. Shorten the distance from the controller to battery or obtain larger gauge wire. It is also possible to double up the existing gauge wire (i.e. two wire runs) to simulate a larger gauge wire.
Voltage Reading: Controller flashes entire LCD for battery overvoltage
Time of Day: Daytime/Nighttime
Possible Causes:
How to tell:
Remedy:
Turn off any secondary charging sources such as a generator. If possible, turn off solar circuit breakers if the error does not clear after turning off secondary charging sources. If you suspect an electrical short, seek the help of a qualified professional or your dealer. Consider having your battery bank tested or replacing your battery bank. Battery capacity deteriorates with age and extreme use. Wait for the battery voltage to fall. Batteries self-discharge over time.
Current Reading: 0 A
Time of Day: Daytime, clear sunny skies
Possible Cause:
Current is being limited below 1 Amp as per normal operation or poor connection between solar array and controller.
How to tell:
Remedy:
Current Reading: Less than expected
Time of Day: Daytime, clear sunny skies
Possible Causes:
How to tell:
NOTE: Avoid any shading no matter how small. An object as small as a broomstick held across the solar module may cause the power output to be reduced. Overcast days may also decrease the power output of the module.
Remedy:
Go Power! warrants the GP-PWM-30-SB for a period of five (5) years from the date of shipment from its factory. This warranty is valid against defects in materials and workmanship for the five (5) year warranty period. It is not valid against defects resulting from, but not limited to:
This warranty shall be considered void if the warranted product is in any way opened or altered. The warranty will be void if any eyelet, rivets, or other fasteners used to seal the unit are removed or altered, or if the unit's serial number is in any way removed, altered, replaced, defaced, or rendered illegible.
Visit www.gpelectric.com to read the "frequently asked questions" section of our website to troubleshoot the problem. If trouble persists:
© 2019 GO POWER!®
gpelectric.com
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
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