NovaLynx Corporation
320-900
Page 6
February 2022
but also ensures that the polarity is correct for connection to the logger system. If the quick-connect
plug has been removed (i.e. the cable has flying leads), special precautions must be taken to ensure
that the exposed wires do not short together, and that proper polarity is observed.
It is best to "boot" the logger from the battery before connecting the solar panel to the system. In the
case of NovaLynx loggers, this means connect the red battery connector to the positive battery
terminal first. The logger will start up normally and the battery will be in the circuit when the charger
connection is made. Connect the solar panel by plugging the quick-connect plug on the solar panel
cable into the quick-connect plug inside the logger enclosure. After the solar panel is connected,
remove the opaque cloth from the panel.
Note:
in some systems the battery is in a separate enclosure
from the logger. In this case route the cable from the solar panel to the battery box.
6
OPERATION
The operation of the regulator is completely automatic. No user interface is required after installation.
The controller will regulate the charging of the battery during conditions of heavy usage, or when left
unattended for long periods of time.
The regulator provides pulses of charging current at varying durations to maintain the battery at a full
state of charge and insure the long-term health of the battery. The “on” and “off” cycle time is wide
enough to eliminate electronic noise and short enough to insure the battery is always topped off. This
method allows the batteries to reach a higher voltage with the “on” cycle and protect the batteries
from gassing in the “off” cycle. This will provide the benefits of the higher voltage (reduced sulfation
and stirred up electrolyte) and prevent excessive gassing and excessive water loss.
During a typical day, charging begins with the battery at low capacity. Charging will be continuous. As
the battery charges up, current will pass into the battery for a while and eventually stop. Later,
charging will resume and the system will continue this cycle throughout the day. During the course of
the day, the duration of the charging period of each cycle will get shorter (cycling on for shorter
periods and staying off longer). When the battery is close to full charge, the regulator will pulse current
into the battery to achieve and maintain full charge. This pulse charging is indicated by the
"CHARGING" light occasionally turning on and off.
Please Note:
The “CHARGING” light will be on when there is voltage from the solar array and the
battery can use more charging. This could result in the "CHARGING" light being on (bright or faint)
when the panels are in very low light conditions (i.e. night time with moonlight).
