Product Manual

26
TRISTAR OPERATION
27
MORNINGSTAR CORPORATION
3.03.0
RTS, the controller may not detect that the RTS is connected, and the LED’s will not
indicate a problem. A TriStar meter or
the PC software can be used to determine if the RTS is working properly.
Battery voltage sense failure:
(R/Y-G/Y) If a fault in the battery sense connection (such as a short circuit,
open circuit, loose terminal) occurs after the battery sense has been working,
the LED’s will indicate a failure. However, if the controller is restarted with
the failure still present in the battery sense, the controller may not detect
that the battery sense is connected, and the LED’s will not indicate a
problem. A TriStar meter or the PC software can be used to determine
if the battery sense is working properly.
3.5 Data Logging
The TriStar records daily records of key system information. Data is stored in all
operating modes: Charging, Load/Lighting, Diversion. In Charge mode records are
written after dusk each day. In Load and Diversion modes, records are written every
24 hours and may not coincide with the natural day/night cycle. The logged data
can be viewed using the TriStar Digital Meter 2 or TriStar Remote Meter 2. Data can
also be accessed using MSView
TM
PC software, which is available for download on
our website.
NOTE: The Data Logging feature is available in TriStar firmware version v12 and
later. Firmware update files and instructions are available on our website.
3.6 Inspection and Maintenance
The TriStar does not require routine maintenance. The following inspections are
recommended two times per year for best long-term performance.
1. Confirm the battery charging is correct for the battery type being used.
Observe the battery voltage during PWM absorption charging (green LED
blinking 1/2 second on / 1/2 second off). Adjust for temperature
compensation if an RTS is used
(see Table 4.3) .
For load and diversion modes, confirm that the operation is correct for the
system as configured.
2. Confirm the controller is securely mounted in a clean and dry environment.
3. Confirm that the air flow around the controller is not blocked. Clean the
heat sink of any dirt or debris.
4. Inspect for dirt, nests and corrosion, and clean as required.
4.0 Solar Battery Charging
4.1 PWM Battery Charging
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) battery charging is the most efficient and
effective method for recharging a battery in a solar system.
Refer to “Why
PWM?” on Morningstar’s website for more information
.
Selecting the best method for charging your battery together with a good
maintenance program will ensure a healthy battery and long service life.
Although the TriStar’s battery charging is fully automatic, the following
information is important to know for getting the best performance from
your TriStar controller and battery.
4.1.1 Four Stages of Solar Charging
VOLTAGE
TIME
NIGHT
BULK
CHARGING
PWM
ABSORPTION
FLOAT
EQUALIZE
NIGHT
1
2
4
3
Figure 4.1.1 Solar Charging Stages
1. Bulk Charging: In this stage, the battery will accept all the current
provided by the solar system. The LED’s will display an indication of
the battery charge state as the battery is being recharged.
2. PWM Absorption: When the battery reaches the regulation voltage, the
PWM begins to hold the voltage constant. This is to avoid over-heating
and over-gassing the battery. The current will taper down to safe levels as
the battery becomes more fully charged. The green LED will blink once
per second.
See Section 4.2.
3. Equalization: Many batteries benefit from a periodic boost charge to
stir the electrolyte, level the cell voltages, and complete the chemical
reactions. The green LED will blink rapidly 2-3 times per second.
See
Section 4.4.
4. Float: When the battery is fully recharged, the charging voltage is reduced
to prevent further heating or gassing of the battery. The green LED will
blink slowly once every 2 seconds.
See Section 4.5 .
4.1.2 Battery Charging Notes
The TriStar manages many different charging conditions and system configu rations.
Some useful functions to know follow below.
Solar Overload: Enhanced radiation or “edge of cloud effect” conditions can
generate more current than the controller’s rating. The TriStar will reduce this
overload up to 130% of rated current by regulating the current to safe levels.
If the current from the solar array exceeds 130%, the controller will interrupt
charging
(see Section 3.4) .