A Forum run by Enthusiasts of MidNite Solar

Charge Controllers and Clippers => The "Brat" Charge Controller => Topic started by: planoform on August 05, 2019, 02:00:11 AM

Title: Brat to charge battery from generator
Post by: planoform on August 05, 2019, 02:00:11 AM
Hi all. New to solar and trying to figure things out. I'm wondering if it's possible to wire my Honda 2200i generator to the brat to charge my 12v battery on overcast days? Any ideas welcome!
Title: Re: Brat to charge battery from generator
Post by: bee88man on August 05, 2019, 08:44:47 AM
Honda puts out AC, my freind, so no.
Title: Re: Brat to charge battery from generator
Post by: mike90045 on August 06, 2019, 11:19:05 AM
The 12V charger in the generator is a pretty wimpy 6 amps, no need to control that.   Use the generator to power a large (40A) automotive charger if you need to charge 12v batteries quickly
Title: Re: Brat to charge battery from generator
Post by: boB on August 07, 2019, 02:32:34 PM

No, I would not use the Brat in that way.  In addition to the generator putting out AC, (which can be rectified), the output impedance of the generator is way too low as well as its output voltage being way too high.

The Brat is a PWM controller which means that it must use a current source like a solar panel PV that is typically at a voltage just a wee bit higher than the battery voltage.  For example, a 12V PV module has a maximum power point voltage of around 17 or 18 volts DC.

An AC generator is a totally different thing and will most likely just let the smoke out of the Brat.