Charge Controllers
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About Charge controls
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Calculate the solar system correctly
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What was charge regulator?
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How is a charge controller structured?
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What was the performance specification of charge controllers?
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Which charge controllers are available from Conrad?
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Notes on handling charge controllers
Calculate the solar system correctly
Now you can test our solar system calculator for 12 V island photovoltaic systems and find the right charge controller.
What was charge regulator?
Wind and solar energy systems convert the power of the wind or the energy radiation of the sunlight into electrical energy. Wind power is converted into electrical energy via a generator, while solar systems use the photoelectric effect in semiconductor cells.
In order to bridge the periods without sunlight or with a lull, the energy is stored in accumulators. Charge controllers are used to control this memory process. They ensure that the incoming current flows into the accumulators in the desired or required quantity. They protect against overcharging or deep discharge and thus contribute to protecting the storage batteries and ultimately to their longevity. The charge controller also has the outputs for connecting the loads. Thus, the charge regulator is, so to speak, the "management center" between power generation, storage and consumers.
How is a charge controller structured?
A charge controller consists of an electronic analysis toolthat compares the supplied energy from the solar module or wind generator and the needs of the consumers. Measuring and control components ensure the desired distribution of energy for charging the buffer accumulator and for supplying connected devices. In modern charging controllers, a microprocessor controls these processes. Charge controllers are divided according to the charging control method:
Series controller
The module current is interrupted either by a relay or a power semiconductor when the end-of-charge voltage has been reached. The power source is then idle. If the battery voltage has fallen off, the charging source is switched on again. Shunt regulators bypass the power source with a resistor when no charge is required.
MPPT charge controller
The efficient operating point of the solar modules or wind generators is constantly changing. This is permanently monitored by a microcontroller in the charge controller and controlled in such a way that the source works in its optimum range and the accumulators are charged with the necessary current. These charge regulators especially protect lead-acid batteries from deep discharge and overcharging and thus ensure intelligent battery maintenance.
PWM charge controller
The charge controllers use pulse width modulation (PWM). A microprocessor controls the reduction of the charge current before the battery starts to "gasses". The charging voltage remains the same. These controls are recommended if the voltage of the energy source matches the accumulator voltage.
What was the performance specification of charge controllers?
The power is based on the unit "Watt peak" (abbreviated to WP, kWp, MWp, or GWP), as many times as kilowatt peak, megawatt peak and gigawatt peak (abbreviated to WP, kWp). One note: This unit is not in compliance with the standards as a description of the electrical power (unit: Watts).
Wherever there is no direct access to the public electricity grid, we recommend the use of so-called individual systems or even island solutions for solar or wind energy in which charge regulators are installed.
Which charge controllers are available from Conrad?
In our shop you can choose from a variety of charge controllers, with which you can control your energy system according to your needs:
The power bandwidth is designed to connect to module outputs of approximately 55 to 3,600 WP, so hardly any application is covered. The nominal voltage of the charge controllers offered ranges from 12 to 90 volts.
In the category you will also find charge controllers with special deep discharge protection.
There is also a selection option according to the described control type MPPT, PWM or series.
The right battery is an important criterion for responding to the existing infrastructure when it is bought or replaced. Some charge controllers can be internally adjusted to the connected battery or do so automatically.
Finally, you can select the charging current (max.) from 3 to 60 amps for the battery system.
Many controllers are equipped with internal displays for controlling the charging process and status as well as the energy provided by the system. Observe notes on which source systems can be connected to the respective charge controller. Some controllers have automatic source voltage detection. There are also models that are equipped with storage options for recording the charging processes or can also be controlled via app with the smartphone.
Notes on handling charge controllers
All systems for converting alternative energies consist of electrical components which are connected to a complete system on site. Always follow the exact sequence described for connecting all system components. In doing so, the principles of electrical installation must be observed for which, in case of doubt, a specialist should be consulted. Even small errors in the installation can lead to large consequences up to personal injury or to the destruction of components. Signs and markings on all components are for your safety. You may not modify, remove or obscure these.
Extensive operating instructions are included. Please take note of these carefully before starting installation and use.
Individual systems operate with high DC currents. The cables used must be designed for this purpose in terms of current load, routing type and cable length. This prevents heating with the following fire hazard. Work on the system must always be carried out without any voltage.
Charge controllers and accumulators must be installed in an indoor area, thereby ensuring good heat dissipation for the charge controller. Batteries should be set up in a cool, frost-free, dry and well ventilated place.
Immediately switch off the charge regulator and disconnect it from the battery and generator if the regulator itself, the connected lines, the generator or the accumulator are damaged in any way. A charge controller must not be connected to the public power supply.
Practical advice
A multimeter is recommended for installation, maintenance and troubleshooting in solar and wind power plants and components connected to them. Our online shop offers you a variety of such devices, which are also suitable for many other measuring tasks in the professional and hobby field.