Windy Nation Complete Off-Grid Solar Kit - Manual (Page 4)

Complete Off-Grid Solar Kit Manual
Revision 2.0
2.2.1.1 Monocrystalline – Polycrystalline
Monocrystalline solar cells are manufactured using a single crystal of silicon and are dark black in color.
Polycrystalline, on the other hand, are blue in color and are manufactured by using multiple silicon crystals that
are melted and poured into a cast.
2.2.2 Solar Charge Controller
The solar charge controller regulates the battery charge and prevents overcharging of the batteries thus
increasing battery performance and lifespan.
2.2.2.1 PWM – MPPT
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Controllers use a FET switch to rapidly connect a power source, to a battery.
The switch "opens" and "closes" many times a second, to control the charge.
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) Controllers dynamically convert the power source (PV panels) via an
efficient DC-DC conversion process, to a suitable charging voltage for the battery, with very low losses, and
about 95% efficiency.
MPPT controllers are more efficient than PWM and will produce roughly 20% more power than PWM by using
the Vmp of the solar panel (Voltage at Max Power) to create additional power.
2.2.2.2 Models
Windy Nation has several controllers available; please consult the individual manuals for the controller provided
with your kit.
SKU DESCRIPTION
1 CHC-1224-10 10A PWM Solar Controller
2 CHC-1224-30 30A PWM Solar Controller
3 CHC-TRMX-40 TrakMax 40 MPPT Controller
4 CHC-LCD-30 P30L 30A LCD Controller
Page 4 of 21 windy nation 03/31/2014