Windy Nation TrakMax 40 MPPT Solar Charge Controller - Manual (Page 19)

TrakMax 40 User Manual
Revision 1.0
automatically when the unit first receives power. PV open circuit voltage
must be 12-30VDC for 12VDC battery charging, and 30-55VDC for
24VDC battery charging.
Charge current or PV current is
lower than expected • Check battery voltage, current is reduced if battery voltage is at set points.
• Check atmospheric haze, dirty PV’s, or sun low on horizon, etc.
• Check PV voltage; if system has been changed from 24VDC to 12VDC (or
vice versa), battery and PV power must be momentarily disconnected
from the TrakMax to reboot the unit and load initial 12 or 24VDC control
values. TrakMax considers the PV array to be configured for 24VDC
battery charging if PV voltage ever goes above 30VDC.
Charge OFF at high temperature The system temporarily shuts down due to high heat sink temperatures.
Improve ventilation or reduce PV power to prevent over temp shut down.
6.3 S UPPORT
If you are experiencing technical problems, and cannot find a solution in this manual, you can contact Windy
Nation Inc. for further assistance.
• Call: (805) 323-6445
• Email:
[email protected]
• Write: 1082 Front Street, Unit B, Ventura, CA 93001
For challenging issues or to just ask a question, consider using our FREE Community Forums! Consult our
community of DIY'ers for fast answers to all your questions.
Post on our Forums:
http://www.windynation.com/community/
7 BATTERIES
Batteries come in different sizes, types, amp-hour capacity, voltages and chemistries. Here are a few
guidelines that will help in battery selection, and ensure that the batteries are properly maintained. The best
source of the most appropriate settings for the TrakMax will be from the manufacturer or supplier of the
batteries.
7.1 B ATTERY T YPES
7.1.1 Automotive Batteries
Automotive and truck batteries are designed for high cranking power – not deep-cycling. Do not use them
unless no other battery type is available. They simply will not last long in a cycling application.
7.1.2 Maintenance-Free Batteries
This type of battery is often sold as a RV or marine battery, but is rarely appropriate for use with a PV
system. They typically have an additional reserve of electrolyte, but are vented. This is not the same as a
sealed battery.
7.1.3 Deep-Cycle Batteries
Best suited for use with PV systems, this type of battery is designed to be more deeply discharged before
being recharged. Deep-cycle batteries are available in many sizes and types. The most common is the
vented liquid electrolyte battery. Vented batteries usually have battery caps. The caps may appear to be
sealed, but are not. The caps should be removed periodically to check the level of electrolyte. When a cell is
low, distilled water should be added after the battery is fully charged. If the level is extremely low, add only
enough distilled water to cover the plates before recharging. The electrolyte volume increases during the
charging process and the battery will overflow if it is filled all of the way up before recharging. Use only
distilled water because impurities will reduce battery performance. A popular and inexpensive deep-cycle
battery is the “golf cart” battery. It is a 6-volt design, typically rated at 220amp-hours. RV and marine deep-
cycle batteries are also popular for small systems. They are usually referred to as Group 24 or Group 27
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