Instruction Manual

Charge Controlling
975-0400-01-01 Revision H 1–9
This manual is for use by qualified personnel only.
Battery Temperature Compensation
The Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) automatically adjusts the charging
process of the solar charge controller. With the BTS installed, the solar charge
controller increases or decreases the battery charging voltage depending on the
temperature of the battery to optimize the charge to the battery and to protect it
from over-charge or damage. Using the BTS can extend battery life and improve
overall charging.
The BTS plugs into the BTS jack located inside the wiring compartment of the
solar charge controller. The BTS can be installed on the negative battery post or
on the side of the battery.
If the BTS is not installed, the voltage settings for charging are based on one of
three temperature settings (Cold, Warm, or Hot) available on the solar charge
controller configuration menu. See “Configuring Battery Characteristics and
Battery Charging” on page 3–5.
If there are multiple charge controllers and Conext XW+ inverter/chargers
connected to the Xanbus network, then one BTS is required per battery bank. All
networked Xanbus devices share battery temperature information. If there is
more than one BTS is used within the system, then the highest reported
temperature will be used for the temperature compensation value of the battery
charge algorithm.
Equalization Charging
The solar charge controller can be used to provide the battery bank with an
equalize charge.
Equalization is a deliberate overcharge designed to return each cell in the
battery to optimum condition by reducing sulfation and stratification in the
battery. The equalization charge is generally performed only on flooded, vented
(non-sealed or “wet”) lead-acid batteries, as recommended by the battery
manufacturer.
To avoid damaging your batteries, be sure to read all cautions and warnings
concerning equalization charging. For more information, see “Battery
Equalization” on page 4–14.
Figure 1-6 Battery Temperature Sensor
Important: The solar charge controller maximum output voltage is limited to 72
volts for a 60-volt battery system, which is the bulk voltage setting for 60-volt
batteries. Because of this output limit, the solar charge controller does not
equalize 60-volt batteries.