Looking for a solar voltage regulator...

deno

Hello, I have been Googling around the internet, without any luck.· I have a solar array that will produce a total of 30 amps, full sun.· The voltage regulator I am using now is called a Flexcharger, which works OK, but when the desired set point (voltage) is reached, the charger disconnects the solar array from the batterys.· Then waits for the voltage to drop to the turnon point where the whole thing is repeated.· This turnon and turnoff produces a audible click in the regulator (relay click) and a large spike when the solars are connected to the load·upon turnon.· I know there are 3 stage requlators for alternators, especially on boat charging systems, and I suppose there are store bought regulators to do the same, but.....·

I would like a circuit that can handle 30 amps (12 volt system), but would do the 3 state charge...which is bulk charge, then switch to an acceptance charge (constant voltage), then to a float charge· that I can build myself.· I am big into the homebrew thing.....

Anyone got any links to a 3 state charger?

DenO

Philldapill

I've had an on-again off-again(pun intended) project of designing a MPPT 3-state charge system. The 3-state charge system could easily be done with the propeller, and probably in a single cog. The only external things you would need, are a couple ADC's, and some power switching like mosfets.

icepuck

Like you I'm into solar but I didn't build mine, instead I used a xantrex C35 charge controller. Two 50ahr 12 volt batteries and 170 watts of solar panels. I'm still trying to figure out(when I have the time) how to use a bs2 to do the same thing.
The included file shows it under load running an old compaq deskpro that is used for my linux print/file server.
-dan

Post Edited (icepuck) : 3/31/2009 2:09:48 AM GMT

deno

This post was getting pretty far down the list, so I thought I would bring it to the top for one last "look see".

Thank you icepuck for your reply...

Deno