Specialty Concepts MARK/22 - Manual (Page 2)

R E L A T E D S Y S T E M E Q U I P M E N T
The MARK/(15,20,22) is an integral part of a solar electric power system that includes a solar panel, a battery and a load.
SOLAR PANELS - (“photovoltaic (PV) array”, “solar modules”):
The MARK/(15,20,22) is compatible with all makes and models of photovoltaic solar panels.
The entire solar array’s open circuit voltage (Voc) cannot exceed 26 volts (the sum of the Voc of all solar panels in series). Also, the solar array’s short circuit current
(Isc) cannot exceed 15 amps (for MARK/15) or 20 amps (for MARK/20) or 22 amps (for MARK/22). (This is the sum of the short circuit currents (Isc) of all the solar
panels in parallel). Remember that cold temperatures increase the charging current from the panels. Refer to the solar panel’s specifications for the temperature
chart.
Install all panels with the correct series-parallel configuration to insure proper system voltage (12 volts) and current.
The MARK/(15,20,22) includes a blocking diode to eliminate leakage of the battery power into the solar panels at night. No additional protection is needed.
OTHER CHARGING SOURCES: Systems with an additional source of charging (alternator, battery charger, etc.) can operate with a solar array and a
MARK/(15,20,22). All charging sources need to connect directly to the battery on independent lines and have their own form of over-charge protection.
MARK/(15,20,22) FOR NON-SOLAR APPLICATIONS: These units will ONLY operate with solar electric panels. Do not use to regulate other power sources, such
as a hydro or wind generators/alternators or AC battery chargers. These charging sources can damage the controller and/or the generating equipment because the
MARK/(15,20,22) stops charging by short circuiting the input.
BATTERIES: The MARK/(15,20,22) 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), sealed, maintenance-free and gel-cell batteries. Automobile batteries can also be charged,
but these batteries are rarely used as the primary battery in a solar system. Install all batteries with the correct series-parallel configuration to insure proper system
voltage and current.
SYSTEMS WITH TWO BATTERY BANKS: When solar charging two separate battery banks, a switch can be installed to allow manual selection of one battery or
the other.
BATTERY ISOLATORS: In installations that use a diode battery isolator with two batteries, the MARK/(15,20,22) needs to connect directly to one of the batteries
or an output from the isolator. The MARK/(15,20,22) will not operate if it is connected to the input of the isolator.
LOADS: System loads such as lights, radios and DC/AC inverters must be 12 volts DC (unless an inverter is being used).
I N S T A L L A T I O N
WARNINGS
WARNING: Electricity, even low voltage electricity, can be dangerous. Installation should be performed only by a licensed electrical contractor or
other qualified personnel. The requirements of the U.S. National Electrical Code should be followed.
WARNING: Follow all safety precautions of the battery manufacturer. Proper ventilation must be provided for the batteries. Most batteries produce
hydrogen gas when charging, which is extremely explosive. Provide adequate battery ventilation. DO NOT expose the battery to open flame,
matches, cigarettes or sparks.
CAUTIONS: (The following can cause a fuse to blow and may damage the unit)
CAUTION: DO NOT EXCEED THE UNIT’S VOLTAGE AND CURRENT RATINGS:
• Do not exceed the maximum open circuit voltage (voc) rating of 26 volts. This is the sum of the Voc of all solar panels in series.
• Do not exceed the maximum current rating of 15 amps (MARK/15) or 20 amps (MARK/20). This is the sum of the short circuit currents (Isc) of
all the solar panels in parallel.
CAUTION: DO NOT DEVIATE FROM THE RECOMMENDED WIRING INSTRUCTIONS:
• Do not reverse Battery(+) and Battery(-) connections to the MARK/(15,20,22). Any reverse polarity to the battery may damage the unit.
• Do not reverse the Battery and Solar Array connections to the MARK/(15,20,22). A battery connected to the array terminals may damage the
unit.
• Do not connect the array directly to the battery when the array is connected to the MARK/(15,20,22) at the same time. This will cause the
fuse to blow when the battery reaches full charge voltage
• Do not wire the MARK/(15,20,22) in such a way that it can be connected to an alternator (or other charging source) while the battery is
disconnected. Other charging sources should have independent connections to the battery.
• Do not wire the MARK/(15,20,22) in such a way that it can be connected to a load without a battery connected. (Example: Do not connect
the loads directly to the MARK/(15,20,22) BATT terminals. This will damage the controller if the battery is disconnected.)
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS:
1. MOUNTING CONSIDERATIONS: - The MARK/(15,20,22) is designed to be mounted flush against a wall. It can be mounted onto a wall by adding the optional
knockout box (4x7 BOX). Flush mounting or wall mounting require different installation and mounting considerations.
FLUSH MOUNT: The flush mounted unit requires a rectangular cutout in the mounting surface with sufficient space (2-3 inches) immediately behind to
accommodate the controller.
WALL MOUNT: The wall-mounted unit (MARK/(15,20,22) with the 4x7 BOX) is installed onto a wall surface using four mounting screws. Electrical connections
are made through knockouts in the box to the back of the controller. Wiring can be run down the wall or through a hole in the wall directly below the
controller.
2. ACQUIRE TOOLS AND MATERIALS: Refer to MOUNTING TEMPLATE for a list of recommended tools.
3. LOCATION: - The MARK/(15,20,22) should be mounted where it can be easily seen and reached as needed. Carefully consider how the wires are to be run from
the solar panel to the controller and from the controller to the battery. The MARK/(15,20,22) should be mounted as close to the battery as possible, and should
be mounted on a vertical surface to aid in cooling. DO NOT REMOVE THE FOUR RUBBER MONTING FEET FROM THE BACK OF THE UNIT.
4. PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS: - The unit should be mounted indoors, out of the weather, unless a weatherproof enclosure is used. Avoid mounting in direct
sunlight or in a hot environment or where exposed to any moisture. Locations near refrigerators may pose a moisture problem.
5. PREPARE THE LOCATION PRIOR TO WIRING:
FLUSH MOUNT: Use the template provided (attached to back of this manual) to position and mark the cutout and the four mounting holes. Make the cutout
using a keyhole or saber saw. Start by drilling holes in the corners, and then saw between the holes.
WALL MOUNT: Mount the knockout box to the wall using suitable fasteners.
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