Instruction Manual

Wiring
975-0400-01-01 Revision H 2–15
This manual is for use by qualified personnel only.
Current Rating
The solar charge controller PV input is rated for 60 A maximum I
sc
. Since PV
outputs can vary due to the array size or sunlight angle, the safe minimum wire
size must be chosen for maximum array short-circuit current. Consult PV array
manufacturer specifications.
Minimum Wire Gauge
For installations where the PV array output is the maximum allowable 60 A I
sc
, the
minimum allowable wire gauge is #6 AWG (16 mm
2
) copper wire with a 90°C
(194°F) insulation rating. This wire gauge is determined by electrical code
requirements regarding conduit knockout sizes, wire bending radius, and space
available within the solar charge controller wiring compartment.
No crimp-on terminals or lugs are required.
Over-current Protection
Over-current protection must be installed to protect the solar charge controller
from short circuits and to provide a means of disconnecting the solar charge
controller. Consult local electrical codes to establish the correct fuse or circuit
breaker rating.
Battery Circuit
The NEC requires the battery circuit to be protected with a device rated for 125%
of the rating of the circuit. The DC-rated fuse or circuit breaker between the
battery and the solar charge controller must be rated for 1.25 × 60 A (the
maximum current rating of the solar charge controller).
PV Circuit
A PV disconnect device between the PV array and the solar charge controller
must be rated for 60 A.
Long-distance Wire Runs
If there is a significant distance between the PV array and the solar charge
controller or between the solar charge controller and the battery, larger gauge
wires can be used to reduce the voltage drop and improve performance. Refer to
Table 2-3.