A Forum run by Enthusiasts of MidNite Solar

Charge Controllers and Clippers => The "Classic" charge controller => Topic started by: SolarMusher on March 08, 2013, 10:37:06 AM

Title: Classic + Classic lite networking questions
Post by: SolarMusher on March 08, 2013, 10:37:06 AM
Hi,
Just to be sure this job can be done.
I'm working on a quotation where a guy would want to keep his old array, 4x Kyocera 130W/C60 controller/12Vdc  :o.
Impossible to match the Vmp with the new array, too much losses. I would like to mount the new 3kw/hr array/91.29Vmp on a Classic 150 and the old 0.52kw/hr at 70.4Vmp on a Classic Lite, both would be networked to absorb and float at the same time.
I think it's ok and that there's no problem in that networked configuration with the actual follow me firmware (FW1181)?
Am I right?
Oops, and a last question, could I use Aux1 for a fan and Aux2 to control a SSR (water heating) at the same time in one controller or is it better to use Aux1 on Classic and Aux2 on Classic Lite?
Thanks,
Erik
Title: Re: Classic + Classic lite networking questions
Post by: Westbranch on March 09, 2013, 12:39:21 PM
Erik, are you staying with 12v?  It doesn't look like it with that down conversion differential.

Don't know the answer to your Aux1/2 question.
Title: Re: Classic + Classic lite networking questions
Post by: SolarMusher on March 10, 2013, 08:17:34 AM
No Eric, It's for a guy who is actually on a 12V system with 0.52kw/h PV array, but the planned system would be residential, 48Vdc/700Ah with a 2.94kw array on 2x poles mount/Classic 150 with water heating. He would like me to add/include his actual 0.52kwh PV array and C60 CC in the new system. The old C60 can't work on 48Vdc, so I told him it would be better to connect this little array through a Classic 150 Lite for this new system to work flawlessly.
Erik
Title: Re: Classic + Classic lite networking questions
Post by: dgd on March 11, 2013, 12:37:57 AM
Erik,
I can't imagine why this would not work. I  have two different voltage arrays connected to two C150s charging the same battery bank. 
As you know, the C60 is 12/24V but  the C40 is 12/24/48v. Not  worth changing as a lite 150 would be much more efficient and
its nice to get older legacy panels included in  making power.

4 aux outputs can do lots, I have never seen any good reason to spread AUX usage over Classics. Its not likely a Classic
can get overloaded with AUX usage  ;)  There is always the option that if the legacy panels are not essential to charge
batteries then just connect them to a water heating element.

dgd