Specialty Concepts ASC-Plus - Manual (Page 16)

HELP NOTES:
(continued)
PROBLEM CONDITIONS :
5. SYSTEM IS NOT SIZED CORRECTLY - The solar system batteries will tend to be under-
charged if the solar panel array is too small, or if the battery bank is too small, or if the usage
is too high.
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 panel angle of orientation,
minor shading, high level haze (barely visible) and dust or dirt 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 ARRAY(+) connection on the ASC-Plus, and measure the voltage at
the array using the positive and negative wires. In sunny conditions, this should be 18-24
volts. A lower value could indicate a problem with the solar panel array. To check array
current, 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. TEST: If the battery is going bad, a little
charging or discharging will cause a large change in the battery voltage.
8. BAD CONNECTION: PANEL - The panel connection to the controller may be weak or
completely out. This may include problems with the connections at the ASC-Plus (ARRAY
(+) and 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 voltage drop. TEST: Refer to INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, step #14: CHECK FOR
VOLTAGE DROP.
9. BAD CONNECTION: BATTERIES - The ASC-Plus needs to read an accurate battery voltage
to regulate the charging correctly. The battery connection to the controller may be weak or
completely out. Connection problems can be found with the connections at the ASC-Plus
(BATT (+) and BATT (-) terminals), the ASC-Plus fuse, both battery terminals (“+” or “-”) or
other fuses and unsoldered crimp connectors in these lines. Also, wire that is too small for the
length of the run may cause a voltage drop. TEST: 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.
11. CONTROLLER DEFECTIVE - The ASC-Plus may no longer be functional. It could have been
exposed to high voltage (such as a lightning strike nearby), too much current from the panels,
reverse polarity from the batteries, or the temperature compensation cable could be damaged
(for units with Option-A). Refer to ASC-Plus FIELD TEST PROCEDURE