The micro-processor based PVCM40D photo-voltaic (PV)

charge controller is used to connect PV panels to 12V or 24V

DC storage batteries.  The PVCM determines which mode to

operate in, 12V or 24V, by measuring the battery voltage that ENCLOSURE: Epoxy potted in PVC plastic

powers it. 

  

The PVCM40D performs five basic functions: 

* It senses when the battery is fully charged and disconnects

the PV charge current to avoid over-charging the battery.

* It resumes charging the battery when the battery voltage

has dropped sufficiently to accept additional charge current.

*  I t  checks the availability of PV charge current, by cycling

the relay every 4 minutes.  If there is insufficient charge

current available, it’s internal relay will disconnect the battery

to prevent discharge through the PV panels at night.

* It also compensates for battery temperature and adjusts the

charge threshold voltages when mounted in battery case.

*  Its microprocessor reduces the charging rate of fully

charged batteries to minimize water addition requirements.

  

Three different colored LED’s indicate the status of the

battery charge.  Grn = Full, Yel = Partial, blinking Org = low

Note: When orange LED is blinking, due to low voltage, both

the green and yellow LEDs will be dimly lit.

  

The temperature compensation works as follows: (lead acid)

  

below     08C On @ 13.3VDC Off @ 15.0VDC

between 0-58C On @ 13.3VDC Off @ 14.8VDC

between 5-108C On @ 13.1VDC Off @ 14.6VDC

between 10-158C On @ 12.9VDC Off @ 14.4VDC

between 15-308C On @ 12.7VDC Off @ 14.2VDC

between 30-358C On @ 12.7VDC Off @ 14.0VDC

between 35-408C On @ 12.6VDC Off @ 13.8VDC

between 40-458C On @ 12.6VDC Off @ 13.6VDC

  

Temperatures > 458C or no temperature sensor connected:

On @ 12.7VDC Off @ 14.2VDC.