Specialty Concepts SC3/15 - Manual (Page 3)

R E L A T E D S Y S T E M E Q U I P M E N T
The SC3/15 is an integral part of a solar electric power system that includes a PV solar
array, a battery and a load. These items should be installed in accordance with the
National Electrical Code, and with the instructions provided by the equipment supplier.
SOLAR ARRAY PANELS: The SC3/15 is compatible with all makes and models of PV
panels, provided the open circuit voltage (Voc) does not exceed 26 volts (the sum of
the Voc of all modules in series) and the short circuit current (Isc) of the array does not
exceed 15 amps (the sum of the short circuit currents (Isc) of all the modules in parallel).
BATTERIES: The SC3/15 provides the proper charging of standard lead-acid batteries
that are normally used in recreational vehicles, boats, and remote stand alone
systems. These include wet cell batteries (with filler caps) and the sealed,
maintenance-free batteries. A battery disconnect switch should be installed on the
Battery (+) run to the controller. This will allow a safe way to disconnect the battery
during installation.
TWO-BATTERY SYSTEMS & SYSTEMS WITH BATTERY ISOLATORS : If solar
charging of two separate batteries is desired, a switch can be installed to allow
manual selection of one battery or the other. In installations that use a diode battery
isolator with two batteries, the SC3/15 can be connected to one of the outputs from
the isolator, or at one of the batteries itself to charge that battery only. Do not
connect the SC3/15 to the input of the isolator, the SC3/15 will not operate properly
when charging batteries through a diode.
LOADS: System loads such as lights, radios and DC/AC inverters must be 12 volts DC
(unless an inverter is being used). The loads should be fused as recommended and
connected directly to the battery or to a load center/circuit breaker box. See the
diagrams in the "INSTALLATION" section. See “OPTIONS” section for information
on the Low-voltage Load Disconnect option.
OTHER CHARGING SOURCES: The SC3/15 can be used only as a photovoltaic
(solar) charge controller. DO NOT use the SC3/15 to regulate other power sources ,
such as a hydro or wind generator/alternator or an AC battery charger. This could
result in damage to the SC3/15 and/or the generating equipment
The SC3/15 CAN remain connected to a battery that is also being charged by an
another source (alternator, battery charger, etc.) without damage to the SC3/15 or to
the solar panels. Connect all other charging sources, with their own charge regulation
devices, directly to the battery. No isolation diode or transfer switch is required.
NOTE: Some battery chargers or converters powered by 110 volt sources are not
properly regulated and can overcharge batteries if left unattended.