BEFORE YOU START
EN / Solar ChargeMaster 20, 40 / November 07
5
3.2.4 Calculating the PV capacity
The PV panels have to deliver the daily energy
consumption (see section 3.2.1). Take into account
the irradiation and energy consumption during both
summer and winter periods for calculation of your
PV system. Ask your PV panel dealer for more
information. See section 3.3 for voltages.
3.3
Number of PV cells
The Solar ChargeMaster is appropriate for nominal
12V and 24V solar systems. The table shows the
number of cells required for the nominal voltages.
For measuring the voltages, the typical values for
the open clamp voltage (V oc) and the maximum
power point voltage (V mpp) could be useful.
Typical values
Nominal
PV
voltage
Nominal
battery
voltage
Number
of cells
V oc
V mpp
12V 12V 36
22V
18V
24V 24V 72
44V
36V
With a 12V system the Solar
ChargeMaster 40 can supply a maximum
power of 480W. To connect higher power
devices, you will need more than one
Solar ChargeMaster or change the system
voltage to 24 V.
3.4
Care for your batteries
For proper care of your batteries it is important to
keep them as fully charged as possible and to fully
charge them frequently (every 2 to 4 weeks). This
will extend the battery life span. An alternative
energy source may be needed for this purpose
during extended periods of low irradiation.
Another important issue is reducing the amount of
discharging cycles. For more info regarding your
battery refer to the recommendations of the battery
manufacturer.
3.5
Overview of the Solar ChargeMaster
Figure 5 shows all serviceable parts of the Solar
ChargeMaster.
Figure 5 Overview Solar ChargeMaster
1. LCD screen
2. Button
3. Fastening hole
4. PC Link connector (4 pins)
5. Battery temperature sensor (5 pins)
6. Screw terminals
7. Strain relieves
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
