TriStar MPPT Installation and Operation Manual

8TriStar MPPT Operator’s Manual

Getting Started2.0

2.1 Overview

Thank you for selecting the TriStar MPPT solar charge controller with TrakStar

MPPT Technol-

ogy. The TriStar MPPT (TS-MPPT) is an advanced maximum power point tracking solar battery

charger.Thecontrollerfeaturesasmarttrackingalgorithmthatndsandmaintainsoperationat

the solar array peak power point, maximizing energy harvest.

The TriStar MPPT battery charging process has been optimized for long battery life and im-

proved system performance. Self-diagnostics and electronic error protections prevent damage

when installation mistakes or system faults occur. The controller also features eight (8) adjustable

settings switches, several communication ports, and terminals for remote battery temperature

and voltage measurement.

Please take the time to read this operator’s manual and become familiar with the controller. This

will help you make full use of the many advantages the TriStar MPPT can provide for your PV

system.

2.2 Versions and Ratings

There are three versions of TriStar MPPT controllers:

TriStar-MPPT-30

• maximum 30 amps continuous battery current

• 12, 24, 36, and 48 Volt dc systems

• maximum 150 Volt dc solar input voltage

• RS-232 and MeterBus

communication ports

TriStar-MPPT-45

• maximum 45 amps continuous battery current

• 12, 24, 36, and 48 Volt dc systems

• maximum 150 Volt dc solar input voltage

• RS-232 and MeterBus

communication ports

TriStar-MPPT-60

• maximum 60 amps continuous battery current

• 12, 24, 36, and 48 Volt dc systems

• maximum 150 Volt dc solar input voltage

• RS-232, EIA-485, MeterBus

, and Ethernet communication ports

To comply with the National Electric Code (NEC), the current rating of the controller must be

equal to or greater than 125% of the solar array’s short circuit current output (Isc). Therefore, the

maximum allowable solar array input to the TriStar MPPT controller for compliance with the NEC

is:

TS-MPPT-30: 24 amps Isc*

TS-MPPT-45: 36 amps Isc*

TS-MPPT-60: 48 amps Isc*

*Solar array Isc @ STC