Page 165 - CITS - Electronic Mechanic - TT - 2024

ELECTRONICS MECHANIC - CITS

Solar controller is three types
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
Simple 1 or 2 Stage Controllers.
1 MPPT Solar Charge Controllers

MPPT controllers use cutting-edge technology to let your solar array operate at its maximum power point. This
ensures optimal current and voltage, converting any extra energy into more power for your batteries.
This contrast with older PWM controllers, which let some of this extra energy go to waste. Over the years, MPPT
technology has become more affordable, making it the go-to option for many residential solar systems. In fact,
you can boost your solar system’s efficiency by up to 30% using an MPPT controller. These controllers achieve
this by transforming extra voltage into added current, funneling more energy into your batteries. Even though
MPPT controllers are pricier upfront, they save you money in the long run by maximizing the energy you get from
your solar panels.
They’re especially useful when your battery levels are low; the MPPT controller will convert extra voltage into
more current to recharge the battery more quickly.
If setting up a solar system from scratch seems daunting, there are all-in-one packages that can help. All you have
to do is buy the solar panels that fit your needs, and you’re ready to go.

2 PWM Solar Charge Controller
PWM, or Pulse Width Modulation controllers, are an older and less costly option for solar systems.
They’re not as efficient as MPPT controllers, so it takes longer to fully charge a battery if you’re using a PWM
controller. Like MPPT controllers, PWM ones also manage the flow of energy to your battery bank, but they do
it in a unique way. They reduce the electrical current gradually while charging, and when the battery is full, they
keep sending a tiny amount of power to keep the battery full.

For a PWM controller to work, your solar panels and batteries have to run at the same voltage level. This makes
them a poor fit for big home solar systems. With a PWM controller, you’re restricted to using the power that
matches your battery voltage, usually about 12V. Any extra power generated by your solar panels is lost. This is
in contrast to MPPT controllers, which can change extra voltage into more current. PWM controllers are a better
fit for hot areas, where the benefits of an MPPT controller aren’t as noticeable.
They’re also a cost-effective choice for small setups where an MPPT controller might not be worth the investment.
3 Simple 1 or 2 Stage Controllers
These are the most basic types and are often used in very small systems like solar yard lights. They basically
connect or disconnect the solar panel to control voltage, but they offer the least amount of control and efficiency.
How to Choose controller
How to Choose Which Type of Solar Charge Controller Is Right for You? For modern homes or large leisure solar
setups, your main options are MPPT and PWM charge controllers.
An MPPT charge controller is the go-to choice for home solar projects, RVs, cabins, and other places off the grid.
Unless you’re only using a single or a pair of solar panels, like on a camping trip, the extra benefits of an MPPT
controller make it worth the somewhat higher cost.
MPPT controllers use updated tech to work at the best voltage for power, which is especially useful in cold
weather when the voltage from the solar panels is much higher than the battery’s.
MPPT controllers can also work with higher voltages and less current, making your setup simpler. PWM controllers
are smaller and work at the same voltage as your battery. With PWM controllers, your solar panels have to be the
same voltage as your battery. This limits your options.
Many solar panels that work great with MPPT controllers won’t work with PWM controllers because of the voltage
difference.

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CITS : E & H - Electronics Mechanic - Lesson 90 - 93