Specialty Concepts ASC - Manual (Page 4)

R E L A T E D S Y S T E M E Q U I P M E N T
The ASC is an integral part of a solar electric power system that includes a
photovoltaic (PV) solar array and a battery.
SOLAR ARRAY PANELS: The ASC is compatible with all makes and models of PV
panels, provided the open circuit voltage and short circuit current do not exceed the
Array (Voc) Max. and the short circuit current (ISC), max., specification ratings for
the ASC being used. See Specifications section. Install all modules with the
correct series-parallel configuration to insure proper system voltage and current.
The ASC includes a blocking diode to eliminate leakage of the battery power into
the solar panels at night. No additional protection is needed.
FOR LARGER SYSTEMS: Systems with large arrays and higher charging
currents can divide up the array into 2 or more parallel sub-arrays. An ASC should
be wired to each sub-array, provided that each sub-array does not exceed the
rating of the individual ASC. This method allows higher currents, an ideal charging
method and a degree of redundancy to increase overall system reliability.
OTHER CHARGING SOURCES: Systems with an additional source of charging
(alternator, battery charger, wind power, etc.) can operate with a solar array and an
ASC. All charging sources need to connect directly to the battery on independent
lines and have their own form of over-charge protection.
ASC FOR NON-SOLAR APPLICATIONS: The ASC will only operate with solar
panels (PV). Do not use with other power sources, such as a hydro or wind
generators/alternators or AC battery chargers. These charging sources can
damage the ASC and/or the generating equipment because the ASC regulates
charging by short circuiting the input.
BATTERIES: The ASC is designed to be used with standard lead-acid batteries.
These include wet-cell batteries, sealed maintenance-free batteries and gel-cell
batteries. Vented pocket plate nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries may also be used
provided the number of battery cells in series is a multiple of 5 (for a 12 volt
system, 10 cells). Consult with the battery manufacturer for specific recommended
set-points. Install all batteries with the correct series-parallel configuration to insure
proper system voltage and current
LOADS: System loads such as lights, radios, DC/AC inverters, etc. must be rated for
the proper DC input voltage. If the ASC is equipped with low-voltage disconnect
(LVD) (Option-E), DC loads not exceeding 10 amps can be connected to the ASC.
These loads will disconnect automatically when the battery voltage is low. Higher
current loads, or inductive loads such as pumps, motors or invertors should be
connected directly to the battery and be properly fused.