GP-PWM-10-FM
3
© 2018 Go Power!
1.0 Installation Overview
1.1 Introduction
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-10-FM 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-PWM-
10-FM features an LCD digital display that shows the charge current of
the solar array, battery voltage and battery state of charge.
1.2 System Voltage and Current
The GP-PWM-10-FM is intended for use at 12 VDC nominal system
voltage and is rated for a maximum continuous DC input current of 12.5A
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 10A (10A x 1.25 = 12.5A), 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.
1.3 Battery Type
The GP-PWM-10-FM is suitable for use with lead acid and lithium
batteries (vented, GEL, LiFePO
4
(LFP) or AGM type).
