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Charge Controller Operation
Please make sure to the read charge controller’s manual for operation and safety recommendations.
Green LED light: Indicates a fully charged battery*.
Red LED light: Indicates the battery is being charged.
* The age, condition or use of a battery may sometimes affect whether or not the Green LED lights up.
Note: It is normal for both lights to flicker on and off during normal operation. The battery charge
controller should be placed within 5’ of the battery in a dry, well-ventilated area. All connections
should be parallel to ensure a 12 Volt system (positive to positive and negative to negative).
Use of included adaptors
• 12 Volt DC Plug Connector (FIGURE 1, #4)
This connector allows panels to be directly connected into a 12 Volt DC Socket. Use of this
connector should be done for very limited amounts of time due to lack of protection from a charge
controller. Risk of overcharging the battery is great.
• 12 Volt DC Socket Connector (FIGURE 1, #5)
This connector allows 12 Volt devices to be connected directly to the panels. Since the panels
have variable voltage, use of this cable is limited. Refer to your 12 Volt device operating
recommendations.
• Power Inverter Connector (FIGURE 1, #6)
This connector is intended for use with the Power Inverter only.
• Battery Clamps Connector (FIGURE 1, #7)
This connector allows the panels to be directly connected to a battery. Use of this connector should
only be done for very limited amount of time due to lack of protection from a charge controller. Risk
of overcharging the battery is great.
Batteries (not included):
Choosing a battery involves some careful consideration. You can consult with a local battery supplier or
follow these simple guidelines.
• Choose only rechargeable 12 Volt batteries.
• SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) GEL, and AGM are all ideal choices. We do not advise Lithium-Ion for
our solar chargers.
• 'Deep Cycle' or marine batteries are optimum for solar charging systems. They allow discharge
and recharge characteristics beyond a standard vehicle battery.
• Batteries are rated in Amp hours. This defines a battery’s ability to hold and release its charge.
The higher the Amp Hour rating the more power available. Most solar users choose batteries
between 80-100 Ah (Amp Hours).
General Testing Protocol
Note: Always test outdoors under optimal sunlight.
The use of a voltmeter or multi-meter is required (not included).
Test Solar Panels for Voltage:
Connect a voltmeter to each individual panel separately and observe Open Circuit Voltage. Open
Circuit Voltage can range from 16 Volts to 24 Volts.
Reconnecting Charge Controller and Panels:
Connect the charge controller to battery; first, disconnect solar panels and connect the charge
controller to the battery. Always connect the charge controller to the battery first and remove last.
Observe polarity – positive to positive and negative to negative.
Reconnect Solar Panels to Charge Controller; if the battery voltage is 14.2V or higher, the GREEN LED
should be on. If the battery voltage is under 14.2V, the YELLOW LED should be on.
* Be aware that not all batteries may reach 14.2V depending on their age, condition or use.
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