Charge Controllers Page, Solar-Catalog.com

Charge Controllers – PWM and MPPT

A charge controller is an electronic voltage regulator, used in off-grid systems and grid-tie systems with battery backup, that controls the flow of power from the charging source to the battery. The charge controller automatically tapers, stops, or diverts the charge when batteries become fully charged. Some charge controllers have metering and data logging capability to show system operation parameters and battery charge status. Some have low battery load disconnect to prevent over-discharge and some have built-in light controls to turn on lights at night.

Charge controller capacities ranges from 4 amps to 80 amps and multiple charge controllers can be used in parallel for larger systems. The simplest charge controllers turn off the charge when the battery reaches a voltage near full charge, and turn it on when the voltage drops about one volt.

Pulse width modulated (PWM) charge controllers turn on an off very rapidly, holding the batteries at full charge, making better use of available power.

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) charge controllers take power from the charging source at a voltage where it can put out the most power (its maximum power point) and convert that to the correct voltage to charge the battery. This technique significantly increases the power from a solar array, especially when batteries are discharged, battery voltage is low, and the temperature is low causing the maximum power point voltage of the solar modules to be high. Most MPPT charge controllers can take an array voltage much higher that what is required by the batteries, allowing the use of modules with higher peak power voltage, designed for grid-tie use. A higher voltage solar array also allows smaller wire to be used between the array and the charge controller, which can save wire and installation cost in large systems. Maximum power point tracking allows a PV array to deliver up to 30% more power to a battery than it would if it were connected directly to the battery.

MPPT CHARGE CONTROLLERS
PWM CHARGE CONTROLLERS

PWM CHARGE CONTROLLERS

MORNINGSTAR CHARGE CONTROLS

SunSaver DIN Rail Clips
PRICING & PURCHASING

Morningstar’s Polypropylene 35mm DIN rail clips provide a simple way to install the SunSaver family of charge controllers to DIN rails in industrial enclosures.

These rugged plastic clips have been custom made to match the mounting holes on the SunSaver controllers and to either snap on to the middle of the rail or to slide on from the end of the rail.

The DIN rail clips are compatible with the SunSaver, SunLight, SunSaver Duo, SunSaver MPPT, and SunLight MPPT.

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Morningstar TriStar Charge Controllers
PRICING & PURCHASING

The TriStar pulse width modulated (PWM) controller can operate as a solar charge control, a load control, or a diversion regulator in 12, 24 or 48 volt systems. It can operate in only one of these modes at a time, but two or more controllers can be used to provide multiple functions. PWM operation may be changed to on/off operation to prevent telecom noise. Two models are available with UL current ratings of 45 and 60 amps.

A choice of 7 different setpoints are easily selectable with DIP switches. An RS-232 communications enables PC connection to adjust control setpoints and data logging. An optional digital display may be mounted on the front of the controller or up to 100 feet away using 4-conductor phone cable with RJ-11 jacks.

Battery temperature compensation may be added with the optional temperature sensor. Knock-outs on the bottom of the charge control match knock-out spacing on the Xantrex DC-175/250 disconnect and the Outback PS2DC and PS4DC power system components, allowing easy mounting on either.

Dimensions: 10.25"H x 5"W x 2.8"D
Weight is 3.5 lb..
UL Listed

5-year warranty.

Model	Description	System Voltage	Charge Amps
TS-45	Tristar 45 Charge Control	12, 24 or 48	45
TS-60	Tristar 60 Charge Control	12, 24 or 48	60

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Morningstar ProStar Charge Controllers
PRICING & PURCHASING

Recently revised, this sophisticated line of PV charge controls incorporates constant voltage PWM to make maximum use of valuable PV power. They have automatic equalization, temperature compensation and very high efficiency. Can be used on 12, 24 and 48 volt systems with sealed, gel and wet-cell lead-acid batteries.

Front panel LED’s indicate when the batteries are being charged and relative battery state-of-charge. Reverse polarity protection on input and output. In the event of a load short circuit, the load is automatically disconnected. "M" models include LCD meter of battery voltage, PV charging current, and load current.

LVD is current-compensated to prevent false disconnect when the battery is heavily loaded. Units are conformal coated to guard against corrosion.

Dimensions: 6.01" x 4.14" x 2.2".

5 year warranty.

Model	Description	System Voltage	Charge Amps
PS-15	ProStar 15	12 or 24	15
PS-15M	ProStar 15 w/ Digital Display	12 or 24	15
PS-15M-48V	ProStar 15 48 Volt w/ Display	48	15
PS-15M-48-PG	48Volt w/ Display & Positive Ground	48	15
PS-30	ProStar 30	12 or 24	30
PS-30M	ProStar 30 w/ Digital Display	12 or 24	30
PS-30M-PG	30 w/ Digital Display & Positive Ground	12 or 24	30

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SunSaver MPPT Charge Controller

PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunSaver MPPT charge controller is designed for 12V and 24V battery charging from PV modules with a maximum open circuit voltage of 75V. Use up to three 36-cell modules in series. It can be used with 200 watts of PV when charging a 12-volt battery and up to 400 watts when charging a 24-volt battery. Provides an estimated 5-25% boost of amps from the PV array into the battery. Actual boost depends on PV cell temperature and battery state of charge. Enables the use of high voltage PV modules (designed for on-grid applications) for off-grid 12V or 24V battery charging.

Provides a means to use a 24V PV array to charge a 12V battery, reducing power losses in systems with a long cable run between the PV array and the battery. The controller has electronic protection from short circuit, over-current, reverse polarity, high temp, high voltage, lightning and transient surges. An adjustable low battery voltage load disconnect protects the battery from over-discharge. LED indicators indicate charging, low battery and faults. Dimensions are 6.6" x 2.75" x 2.2". Weight is 1.65 lbs.

5-year warranty.

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SunSaver Duo RV Charge Controller

PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunSaver Duo two battery controller for RVs, caravans, boats and cottages is rated for 25 amps at 12 volts DC. This product will charge two separate and isolated batteries at the same time, such as a house and an engine battery, based on user selectable priorities.

The SunSaver Duo employs Morningstar’s legendary SunSaver controller technology, whose long-term track record for high reliability and improved battery charging is well recognized in the solar industry.

This controller includes a backlit remote meter which may be mounted in or on a wall, and displays digital and pictorial status information about the solar power system. The SunSaver Duo is epoxy encapsulated for environmental protection, is user adjustable via DIP switch or connection to a personal computer and has an optional remote temperature sensor.

5-year warranty.

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Morningstar SunSaver Charge Controls
PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunSaver is a very reliable charge controller and uses the same battery charging algorithm as the ProStar and offers many of the advantages of the ProStar for smaller systems, at a reduced cost. Constant voltage pulse width modulation (PWM) charging is a proven advance compared to the common on/off PV regulators.

SunSavers are field-selectable for sealed or flooded batteries. A rugged anodized aluminum case and epoxy encapsulated electronics ensure durability and longevity. A temperature compensation sensor in the charge control varies full charge voltage with temperature.

They have LED charging and load control indicators in LVD models.

Dimensions: 6" x 2.2" x 1.3".

5-year warranty.

Model	Description	System Voltage	Charge Amps	LVD Amps
SS-6-12V	SunSaver 6	12	25	No
SS-6L-12V	SunSaver 6 w/ LVD	12	6	6
SS-10-12V	SunSaver 10	12	10	No
SS-10L-12V	SunSaver 10 w/ LVD	12	10	10
SS-10L-24V	SunSaver 10 w/ LVD	24	10	10
SS-20L-12V	SunSaver 20 w/ LVD	12	20	20
SS-20L-24V	SunSaver 20 w/ LVD	24	20	20

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Morningstar SunLight Charge Control with Lighting Control
PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunLight has all the features of the SunSaver control. It also has a rotary switch that allows it to turn on the loads afterdusk for 2, 4, 5, 8, or 10 hours. It also has the option to turn loads on at dusk, off and on again before dawn. In this configuration, you can choose the following settings (in hours): 3/off/1, 4/off/2, or 6/off/2. On from dusk to dawn is also possible. A test button turns light on for five minutes.

Dimensions: 6.6" x 2.2" x 1.3".

Five year warranty.

Model	Description	System Voltage	Charge Amps	LVD Amps
SL-10L-12V	SunLight w/ LVD	12	10	10
SL-10L-24V	SunLight w/ LVD	24	10	10
SL-20L-12V	SunLight w/ LVD	12	20	20
SL-20L-24V	SunLight w/ LVD	24	20	20

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Morningstar SunGuard Charge Control
PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunGuard uses the same charging circuit as the SunSaver. It is ideal where a 12-volt low-power control is needed. It can control up to 75 watts of PV module(s). Since it is epoxy encapsulated, it can be used outdoors in a harsh environment. Dimensions are 2.5" x 2" x 1.6" with wire leads for connecting module and battery.

5-year warranty.

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Morningstar SunKeeper Charge Control
PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunKeeper is available in 6 amp or 12 amp versions at 12 volts DC. To withstand the high temperatures at the solar module, the controller has been designed using extremely efficient power electronics and is rated to 70C. The SunKeeper is also certified for use in Class 1, Division 2 hazardous locations, making it an ideal controller for solar powered oil/gas applications. Mounts in 1/2" knockout

5-year warranty.

Model	Description	System Voltage	Charge Amps
SK-6	Sunkeeper 6	12	6
SK-12	Sunkeeper 12	12	12

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XANTREX CHARGE CONTROLLERS

Xantrex C-35, C-40 and C-60 PWM Controllers
PRICING & PURCHASING

The Xantrex C-35, C-40, and C-60 PWM controllers can be used as PV charge controls, DC load controls or DC diversion regulators in 12, 24 and 48* volt systems. They operate in only one mode at a time, so to provide both PV charge control and low battery load disconnect, two controls must be used. As DC load controls they disconnect the load at a user settable low voltage and reconnect at a higher voltage reconnect point. As diversion controllers they send excess power to a "dummy load" such as a water or space heater to regulate hydroelectric or wind generators.

All of the Xantrex controllers, when used as a charge control, have field-adjustable bulk and float setpoints and perform automatic equalization every 30 days or whenever LVD is reached. Equalization can be manually initiated with automatic shut-off. Order the optional temperature sensor for more accurate battery charge control.

The optional LCD Digital Display shows battery voltage, array amps and watts, cumulative amp-hours and a separately resettable "trip" amp-hour measurement. The digital display is available for mounting on the front of the charge control, or with a 50 or 100 foot cable for remote mounting in a double-gang electrical box. UL-listed.

2-year warranty.

*Only the C40 can be used in 48 volt systems.

Model	Description	System Voltage	Max PV Amps
C-35	Charge Control	12 or 24	35
C-40	Charge Control	12, 24 or 48	40
C-60	Charge Control	12 or 24	60

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Xantrex C-12 Charge / Lighting Control
PRICING & PURCHASING

The Trace C-12 controller is PWM microprocessor based and ideal for small village power systems, vacation homes, outdoor area lighting, sign lighting, and bus shelters. It has a 12 amp low voltage disconnect and an automatic lighting control. The lighting control turns the light on at dusk, then has an adjustable duration timer for 2 to 8 hours of run time, or can be set to run all night. If the battery gets low, lights are turned off. User-adjustable LVD set points.

Dimensions: 6.5" x 4.3" x 1.5".
UL-listed.

2-year warranty.

For use in 12 volt systems only. Can be mounted outdoors.

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PHOCOS CONTROLLERS

Phocos CX Charge Controls
PRICING & PURCHASING

Phocos CX 12/24 volt solar charge controls have exceptional features at a very good OUR PRICE. They feature PWM regulation, with integrated temperature compensation, low battery load disconnect and a comprehensive display Battery state of charge, charge and discharge current and faults are clearly displayed on an LCD a bar graph.

These only consume 4 mA at night. The deep discharge protection function can be set up to three different modes: voltage controlled, SOC controlled or adaptive (fuzzy logic).

CX controls have a built-in data logger. Data can be accessed by a PC by using the CX-USB interface converter. Data includes maximum and minimum batttery voltage, state-of-charge at beginning and end of day, amp-hours produced by PV array and more. Daily data is available for the past 7 days.

Other features include audible warnings and a programmable nightlight function.

Phocos charge controls cannot be used in systems where the array, battery and load negatives are grounded so they cannot be used in systems that meet the N.E.C.

Dimensions are 3.5" x 3.5" x 1.5".
Not UL Listed.

3-year warranty.

Model	System Voltage	Max PV Amps	Max Load Amps
CX10	12 or 24	10	10
CX20	12 or 24	20	20
CX40	12 or 24	40	40
CX - USB Interface for data logger

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PL60 Charge Controllers

PRICING & PURCHASING

This PWM charge controller works well as a diversion controller for wind and hydroelectric systems ad a solar charge controller at the same time. It can be used on 12, 24, 32, 36 and 48 volt systems.

Maximum diversion load is 30 amps.

It can be programmed with the button on the front panel and the LCD display and it has built-in data monitoring.

Model	System voltage	Max PV amps	Max load amps
PL60	12, 24, 32, 36, 48	60	30

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CML Charge Controllers
PRICING & PURCHASING

These low-cost Phocos charge controllers can be used for 12- or 24-volt systems with sealed or flooded batteries.

They offer low-voltage load disconnect and have 5 LEDs to display battery and load status

Model	System voltage	Max PV amps	Max load amps
CML15	12 or 24	15	15
CML20	12 or 24	20	20

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SUNWIZE TECHOLOGY

SW-16-IL6 Charge Regulator
PRICING & PURCHASING

The SW-IL6 battery charge regulator is designed for 12 volt PV systems rated up to 100 watts.

This small regulator package fits into the junction box of most solar modules. The waterproof assembly is encapsulated within a black ABS plastic shell with 4” lead wires. A pressure sensitive adhesive strip is supplied for mounting. This controller is designed to mount in the module junction box.

Can also be installed on the battery.

Features transient surge protection, multi-function green LED charge indicator, reverse polarity protection, operating temperature: -35ºC to + 75ºC, temperature compensation, dual comparator - PWM charging algorithm, self-consumption 4 ma., fixed 14.2 Vdc. Includes 8 amp battery fuse.

FM approved for Hazardous Locations Class 1 Div. 2.

One-year warranty.

Model	Volts	PV Amps	Dimensions in.	Weight lb.
SW-IL6	12	6	1.25 x 1.5 x .40	.125

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Steca Solsum Controller
PRICING & PURCHASING

The Steca Solsum Controller is an economical pulse-width modulated shunt controller designed for small and mid-sized systems. Using the most up-to-date and innovative technology, the Solsum controllers fulfill the task of overcharge and over discharge protection. The overcharge protection operates as a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) shunt controller and guarantees faster charging of the battery.

A tricolor LED indicates three ranges of battery voltage and a green LED indicates array current. These controllers include temperature compensated charging, MOSFET transistors and fuse protection.

Other features include, automatic adjustment for 12 or 24 Vdc systems, protection against extreme temperature, battery voltage, module overcurrent and load current.

Temperature compensated overcharge and over-discharge protection is also built in. Solsum Controllers, certified for World Bank projects, ensure maintenance-free operation and long product life.

One year warranty

Model	Volts	PV Amps	Load Amps	Dimensions in.	Weight lb.
Solsum 5.0C	12/24	5	N/A	3.34 x 3.85 x 1.33	.22
Solsum 6.6C LVD	12/24	6	6	3.34 x 3.85 x 1.33	.22
Solsum 8.0C	12/24	8	N/A	3.34 x 3.85 x 1.33	.22
Solsum 8.8C LVD	12/24	8	8	3.34 x 3.85 x 1.33	.22

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Steca Controller
PRICING & PURCHASING

The SunWize–Steca controller uses an advanced control algorithm that sets new standards for solar charge technology. The state-of-charge algorithm combines battery temperature, battery voltage, and load discharge rate to determine the true battery state of charge (SOC). The controller’s memory of discharge patterns enables the controller to know the degree of battery sulfation. This allows even greater accuracy towards determining true battery SOC. The self-learning controller automatically adjusts for the capacity and age of the battery. The resultant battery SOC is displayed within a 10% accuracy range. The patented hybrid regulator design combines both series and shunt technology for nominal power consumption. Maximum wire gauge for terminal: 4 AWG.

The Tarom features adjustable set points that are stored in the controller's memory. Available Tarom options are an external data logger, external shunts for measuring current and a remote temperature sensor.

Other options include control modules that load shed or PV shed based on the battery SOC that is communicated with the controller over a DC data bus.

Two-year warranty.

Options...
• Audible buzzer fault condition warning alarm (not available with the LCD display)
• Opto-isolated fault condition warning alarm that can beconnected to any analog input monitoring device (not available with the LCD display)

Other Features Include:
• TUV and UL recognized component
• Automatically adjusts for 12 V or 24 V system
• Automatic battery equalization can be disabled when using gel or AGM type lead-acid batteries
• Protection against over temperature, battery overvoltage, module overcurrent, and load overcurrent
• Low voltage disconnect and a low voltage warning
• Tricolor information LED and tricolor “SOC” LED annunciating controller status, errors, and battery SOC
• IP 22 (NEMA 12) protection
• Operating temperature range is -25° C to +50° C
• Manual setting to override the SOC algorithm to allow SOC to be determined by temperature compensated voltage levels.
This is useful when other loads are connected directly to the battery.

Model	Volts	PV Amps	Load Amps	Dimensions in.	Weight lbs.
Alpha	12/24	8	8	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
Gamma	12/24	12	12	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
Sigma	12/24	20	20	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
Omega	12/24	30	30	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
Tarom 235	12/24	35	35	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
Tarom 245	12/24	45	45	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
Tarom 430	48	30	30	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
PR1010*	12/24	10	10	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
PR1515*	12/24	15	15	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
PR2020*	12/24	20	20	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1
PR3030*	12/24	30	30	7.4 x 4 x 1.93	1

* LCD Display standard on PR Series regulators.

SunWize-Steca and Solsum Controller Operational Settings
Set point values based on:	SunWize-Steca		SunWize-Steca Solsum
Set point values based on:	SOC algorithm	Battery Voltage	Battery Voltage
Load Disconnect Pre-warning	SOC < 40%	11.7	NONE
Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD)	SOC < 30%	11.1	11.1
Reconnection of Load after an LVD	SOC > 50%	12.6	12.6
Equalization Charge* of 14.7 V occurs after	SOC < 40%	11.7	12.4
Cycle Charge of 14.4 V occurs after	SOC < 70%	12.4	12.4
Final Charge Voltage	13.7	13.7	13.7
Temperature Compensation	-4mV/K/Cell	-4mV/K/Cell	-4mV/K/Cell
Voltage Values are doubled for 24 V systems * Not applicable to sealed gel or AGM batteries, equalization charge of 14.4 volts for Solsum controllers

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SPECIALITY CONCEPTS INC

ASC Charge Controllers
PRICING & PURCHASING

The ASC is a compact, encapsulated, battery charge regulator for use in small photovoltaic systems. It is available in 12-volt and 24-volt units up to 16 amps. The ASC is a switching shunt regulator, housed in an anodized aluminum chassis and encapsulated in a hard epoxy resin. The terminal block accepts up to 12-gauge wire or a spade connector, providing simple installation.

We sell a variety of 12- and 24-volt controllers. See the chart below. Some have temperature compensation, low-battery voltage disconnect and adjustable set points or a combination of some of these.

All ASC controllers are FM approved, Class 1, Division 2 explosion-proof devices so they are an excellent choice for oil, gas and industrial installations.

Five-year warranty.

Model	Optional features	Battery voltage	PV amps	Load amps	Dimensions L x W x D	Weight (lbs)
A12/4	Charge controller only	12	4		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/8	Charge controller only	12	8		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/8 A	Temp compensation	12	8		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/8 AE	Temp compensation, adjustable set point, LED	12	8		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/8 E	LED	12	8		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/12	Charge controller only	12	12		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/12 A	Temp compensation	12	12		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/12 AF	Temp compensation, adjustable set point	12	12		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/16	Charge controller only	12	16		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/16 AF	Temp compensation, adjustable set point	12	16		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A12/16 AEF	Temp compensation, low-bat disc, adjustable	12	16	10	6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A24/8 AF	Temp compensation, adjustable set point	24	8		6" x 3.5" x 3"	1
A24/16 AF	Temp compensation, adjustable set point	24	16		6" x 5" x 3"	1
A24/16 AEF	Temp compensation, low-bat disc, adjustable	24	16	10	6" x 5" x 3"	1

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SCI RV Charge Controllers

PRICING & PURCHASING

These charge controllers are designed for the RV market where thousands are used every year by motorhome manufacturers. They are designed to flush-mount in a rectangular cut-out. They have a digital amp and volt meter for accurate information and an LED bar graph display for at-a-glance battery status.

Charging is set to stop at 14.4 volts and resume at 13.0, but the full charge level can be adjusted by turning a small screw on the back of the circuit board. Terminal strip on back of unit accepts up to 10 AWG stranded wire. The Mark15 and 22 control has array and battery fuses on the back of the panel and a switch to set the display to volts or amps or off. The optional black anodized aluminum box can be used to surface-mount this control on a wall.

Knock-outs are provided for wiring.

Dimensions: 7.5"W x 4.25"H x 1.5"D.

5-year warranty.

Model	System Voltage	Charge Amps
Mark15/12	12	15
Mark22/12	12	22

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ATKINSON CONTROLLERS

Lighting Controllers

PRICING & PURCHASING

This fully waterproof PV charge and lighting controller for area lighting, roadside signs, and warning signs can be used with 12- or 24-volt systems. 15-amp and 40-amp versions are available.

Controllers have low-voltage load disconnect and temperature compensation and can be used with sealed or flooded batteries.
Pulse action reduces sulfation.

Model	System voltage	PV amps	Load amps	Dimensions L" x W" x D"
PVLC-15	12 or 24	10	10	2 X 3 X 1.25
PVLC-40	12 or 24	20	20	3.3 X 5.5 X 1.7

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Lighting Controllers with Motion Sensor

PRICING & PURCHASING

This fully waterproof PV charge and lighting controller for area lighting, roadside signs, and warning signs can be used with 12- or 24-volt systems. 15-amp and 40-amp versions are available.

Controllers have a motion sensor to activate the light or load when motion is sensed. They have temperature compensation and can be used with sealed or flooded batteries. Pulse action reduces sulfation.

Model	System voltage	PV amps	Load amps	Dimensions L" x W" x D"
PVLC-15MD	12 or 24	10	10	2 X 3 X 1.25
PVLC 40MD	12 or 24	20	20	3.3 X 5.5 X 1.7

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Last up-dated on January 05, 2012