Solar array configuration
Caution
Always use genuine Staubli MC4 connectors for the PV connections to the Multi RS19 Solar.
There are many other brands available, but some manufacturing variations mean that they may make poor contact and cause excessive heat. There are also inferior brands on the market which will likely cause serious problems.
Caution
When the PV array is exposed to light, it supplies DC voltage to the Multi RS19 Solar.
Caution
The maximum rated voltage of the solar charger is 450 V. A PV overvoltage event will damage the solar charger. This damage is not covered by warranty.
In case the PV array is located in colder climates the PV array can output more than its rated Voc. Use the MPPT sizing calculator on the solar charger product page to calculate this variable. As a rule of thumb, keep an additional 10% safety margin.
The maximum operational input current for each tracker is 12 A.
MPPT PV inputs are protected against reverse polarity, to a maximum short circuit current of 16 A for each tracker.
Warning
BEWARE that the product warranty will be void if a PV array with a short circuit current larger than 16 A is connected in reverse polarity.
Caution
The Multi RS19 Solar must keep the individual tracker inputs isolated from each other. That means one solar PV array per input, do not attempt to connect a single array to both tracker inputs.
When the MPPT switches to float stage it reduces battery charge current by increasing the PV Power Point voltage.
The maximum open circuit voltage of the PV array must be less than 8 times the minimum battery voltage when at float.
For example, where a battery has a float voltage of 54.0 volts, the maximum open circuit voltage of the connected array cannot exceed 432 volts.
Where the array voltage exceeds this parameter the system will give a "Over-charge Protection" error and shut down.
To correct this, either increase the battery float voltage, or reduce PV voltage by removing PV panels from the string to bring the voltage back within specification.
Multi RS19 Solar example PV configuration
Notice
This is an example of an array configuration. The decision on the specific array configuration, sizing and design for your system should be made in consultation with your system designer.
Tip
The PV array power can be over sized to be more than 3kW per tracker, but the MPPT trackers will limit the PV power to 3kW each.
Panel Type | Voc | Vmpp | Isc | Impp | # of panels per tracker | Maximum string voltage | Maximum string power | Total Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Victron 305 W (60 cell) | 39.7 V | 32.5 V | 10.27 A | 9.38 A | Tracker 1 - 10 panels | 397 V | 3050 W | 5930 W |
Victron 360 W (72 cell) | 47.4 V | 38.4 V | 10.24 A | 9.38 A | Tracker 2 - 8 panels | 379.2 V | 2880 W |