Classic 200 FETs part numbers?

[bartak32]

Does anyone know what the part numbers are for the 8 FETS on the power board of the classic 200? Mine shorted over the weekend because of very high winds. I have have learned from this experience and am in the process of building in better over-voltage protection on my system, but in the mean time I need to fix my classic. I work in an electronics shop so I have all of the soldering equipment I need.

I think I have found the OPTO-isolator part numbers by looking at the power board picture on the MidNite website(see attached photo), the only reason I can't see the FET part numbers is because they are mounted upside down. Hopefully the OPTO-isolator part numbers aren't different from each classic model, i.e. 150, 200, 250.

I understand that MidNite will fix my board for $150 but I don't want to send the charge controller away and wait that long. This is at a remote off-grid cabin 3 hours away.

Any help is appreciated.

[kitestrings]

I don't know, but have you checked to see if you can just buy them from MS?  Might be worth asking.  My controllers are older 250's, but I think they have gone to better/more robust FETs since mine were built.  You might benefit from any improvements they've found.

We had hellish winds here recently, so I can relate.  Fortunately, I shut things down.

Good luck, ~ks

[ClassicCrazy]

Might also want to check with Midnite - I sent something into them for  repair and they basically turned it around in a day so not too much time.  They would also check everything else on the controller is to spec.  It would be $$ well spent and get you something good as new - maybe upgraded as kitestrings said.

Larry

[bartak32]

Thanks for the replies guys.

To be honest this controller is only a month old. It is still under warranty, and from what i can see the registers did not log a voltage that was over the allowed 224V(Classic 200+Batt V).

I did check with MidNite and they said they do not give out part numbers anymore because people like me would get in there and try to fix the unit themselves and end up screwing it up more and as a result they would send it in, "under warranty", to MidNite to fix their screw-ups.

So, I understand all of the consequences that could arise by me doing this myself, but I do have confidence that I will get it fixed the right way the first time and not take advantage of MidNite's warranty.

I just need the part numbers. LOL

Thank you all.

[TomW]

Are you familiar with the concept of cascade failure? Just because the FETS failed does not mean the FETs caused it.  You could replae the FETs only to blow them up as soon as you fire up the controller if it is something failed that caused it.

If it is truly under warranty, I think that Midnite would likely send you a fresh one to install while they fix yours.  They have done this before. Frankly, they are not picky on age and warranty issues they want happy customers.

Just contact them.  Pretty sure your concerns on turn around are unfounded.

Email ryan@midnitesolar.com he will fix you up pronto.

Tom