Specialty Concepts ASC-Plus - Manual (Page 4)

R E L A T E D S Y S T E M E Q U I P M E N T
The ASC-Plus is an integral part of a solar electric power system that includes a PV solar
array, a battery and a load. The load is considered the item or equipment that the PV
system is powering. The system should be installed according to the instructions provided
by the equipment supplier.
SOLAR ARRAY PANELS: The ASC-Plus is compatible with all makes and models of PV
panels, provided the open circuit voltage (Array Voc, Max) does not exceed 26 volts and
the array short circuit current (Current, Short Circuit, Max) does not exceed 15 amps.
HIGHER CHARGING CURRENTS: For larger arrays made up of many sub-arrays, or
when adding to an existing system, an ASC-Plus can be wired in parallel to each sub-
array, provided that the sub-arrays do not exceed the rating of the individual units. This
method allows higher currents to be handled than allowed by a single ASC-Plus.
BATTERIES: The ASC-Plus is designed to be used with standard lead-acid batteries.
These include wet-cell batteries, sealed maintenance free batteries and gel cell
batteries. Vented pocket plate nickel-cadmium batteries may also be used provided the
number of battery cells in series is a multiple of 5 (for a 12 volt system, 10 cells). Consult
with the battery manufacturer for specific recommended set-points.
LOADS: System loads such as lights, radios, DC/AC inverters, etc. must be rated for 12
volt DC input. DC loads not exceeding 10 amps can be connected to the load control
terminals of the ASC-Plus and they will automatically be disconnected in the event of low
voltage. Refer to Figure 1 for correct installation. Higher current loads, or inductive loads
such as pumps, motors or inverters should be connected directly to the battery and be
properly fused.
OTHER CHARGING SOURCES: DO NOT use the ASC-Plus to regulate a power source
other than a photovoltaic array, such as a hydro or wind generator/alternator or an AC
battery charger. To do so could result in damage to the ASC-Plus and/or the generating
equipment because the ASC-Plus regulates charging by short circuiting the input.
Connect other charging sources directly to the battery.
The ASC-Plus and array can remain connected to a battery that is being charged by an
additional source, (alternator, battery charger, etc.) without damage to the controller or
solar panels.