Specialty Concepts ASC - Manual (Page 15)

PROBLEM CONDITIONS :
5. SYSTEM IS NOT SIZED CORRECTLY - The system batteries will tend to be under-charged if
the solar array is too small, or if the battery bank is too small, or if the usage is too high. Some
systems contain small hidden loads that can slowly draw down the battery.
6. PROBLEMS WITH SOLAR PANELS - Solar panel output is dependent upon the amount of sun-
energy reaching the panel. This can be seriously affected by the angle of the panel (as in winter
months), minor shading, high level haze (barely visible) and dust on the panel. At the time of
installation, a solar array can have an incorrect series-parallel configuration for the proper
system voltage and current. A panel can also become less productive or defective over time.
TEST: Disconnect the ASC from the panel, and measure the voltage at panel(+) and panel(-). In
sunny conditions, this should be 18-24 volts*. A lower value could indicate a problem with the
panel. To check the panel’s current output, contact a local solar dealer.
7. PROBLEMS WITH BATTERIES - At the time of installation, a battery bank can have an
incorrect series-parallel configuration for the proper system voltage and current. A battery can
also go bad and unable to maintain a charge. If the battery is going bad, a little charging or
discharging will cause a large change in the battery voltage. A battery short somewhere can also
reduce the battery voltage.
8. BAD CONNECTION: PANEL - The solar panel connection to the controller may be weak or
completely out. Problems can be found at the ASC connection (ARRAY(+) & ARRAY( – )
terminals), both panel connections (“+” or “ – ”) or fuses and unsoldered crimp connectors in
these lines. Also, wire that is too small for the length of the run may cause a problem. Refer to
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, step #14: CHECK FOR VOLTAGE DROP.
9. BAD CONNECTION: BATTERIES - The battery connection to the controller may be weak or
completely out. The ASC needs to read an accurate battery voltage to regulate the charging
correctly. Therefore, you need to minimize the voltage drop from the battery. Problems can be
found with the ASC connection (BATT(+) and BATT(
– ) terminals), both battery terminals (“+” or
“ – ”) or fuses and unsoldered crimp connectors in these lines. Also, wire that is too small may
cause a voltage drop. Refer to INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, step #14: CHECK FOR
VOLTAGE DROP.
10. CONTROLLER MISWIRED - This may include reversing the polarity from the panels or
batteries, or switching the array and battery connections. This may also include a deviation from
the wiring instructions, such as bypassing connections by using jumpers or by connecting to
battery (
– ) at some place other that the battery itself.
11. INCORRECT CALIBRATION (with F-Option only) - The ASC may be functional but the
calibration of the charge termination set-point may be off. See OPTIONS section. Specific
adjustments to the calibration can be performed at the factory.
12. CONTROLLER DEFECTIVE - The ASC may no longer be functional. A defective unit can
overcharge the battery or stop all charging. A faulty unit can not drain a battery. It may have
been exposed to high voltage or current, reverse polarity from the batteries, or the temperature
cable could be damaged (Option-A). Refer to ASC FIELD TEST PROCEDURE
* Voltages above are for 12 volt systems. For 6 volt systems, use half the listed voltage. For 24 volt
systems, multiply by 2. For 36 volts, multiply by 3. For 48 volts, multiply by 4.
HELP NOTES:
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