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5.6.3. Full rated output not reached
There are a few reasons why the solar charger is not reaching its full rated output.
Some of these reasons have already been explained in the the chapter: "The batteries take too long to charge, are undercharged
or charge current less than expected". Some additional reasons are explained in this paragraph.
PV array too small
If the PV array power rating is less than the solar charger nominal power rating, the solar charger cannot output more power than
the connected solar array can provide.
Temperature above 40°C
When the solar charger heats up, eventually the output current will derate. When the current is reduced naturally the output power
will reduce as well.
The controller is operational up to 60°C, with a full rated output up to 40°C.
In case the solar charger heats up quicker than expected, pay attention to the way it has been mounted. Mount it in such a way
that the generated heat can dissipate.
Ideally mount the solar charger on a vertical surface with the terminals facing downwards.
If the solar charger is located in a closed enclosure, such as a cabinet, make sure that cold air can enter and hot air can leave the
enclosure. Mount vents in the enclosure.
For very hot environments consider mechanical air extraction or provide air conditioning.
5.6.4. Mixed PV panel types
It is not recommended to connect a mix of different PV panel types to the same solar charger.
Only use solar panels that are the same brand, type and model.
5.6.5. MC4 connectors wrongly connected
For a detailed explanation on how to connect MC4 connectors, MC4 splitters and MC4 combiners, see the
chapter 4.10: "Solar panels".
5.6.6. PV connections burned or melted
Burned or melted PV cables or connections are generally not covered under warranty. In most case this is due to any of the
following reasons:
Solar cable
• Cables with rigid core wire or rigid strands used.
• Cables where the core wire has been soldered.
• Cable too thin - remember that the current will be higher when the PV voltage is lower. For more information on cable thickness
see the
Wiring Unlimited
book.
5.6.7. Optimisers cannot be used
Do not use solar panels with optimisers together with the solar charger.
Nearly all optimisers contain an MPPT or other tracking mechanisms and this interferes with the MPPT algorithm in the solar
charger.
5.6.8. Ground current
The system should not have a current flowing to ground under normal operation.
If a ground current is detected, first investigate all the equipment connected to that system and check for ground faults.
Next, check how many connections to ground the system has. There should only be a single point in the system connected to
ground . This should be at the battery.
For more information on system grounding, see chapter 7.7: "System grounding" in the
The connection between PV DC and battery DC is fully galvanically isolated.
Page 31
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Isolated SmartSolar MPPT RS
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Wiring Unlimited
book.
Troubleshooting Guide - MPPT
book,
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