Using the EF-Series Unit
2-20 Rev 2/01
2.5.3.2 Solar Panel Charge Connections
The EF-Series unit contains an internal battery charger circuit for charge control of the 12-volt
batteries. The charger monitors the battery voltage, charge voltage, and the battery temperature, which
is actually the board enclosure temperature. Based on these three conditions, a charge rate is
determined and applied to the battery. Refer to Figure 2-4 for the proper wiring connections.
NOTE
The internal battery charger limits the current input to 1 amp, which is less than
the output of a typical 22-watt solar panel. To use a solar panel with an output
exceeding 1 amp, ensure that the panel has its own regulator and is connected to the
+BAT and BAT- terminals.
NOTE
Keep in mind that a solar panel bigger than 11 watts may violate certain CSA
Class I, Division 2 ratings. Be sure to use approved connectors on the bottom of the
EF-Series enclosure for routing the power wiring.
NOTE
If the solar panel contains its own regulator, connect it instead to the +BAT and
BAT- terminals.
The charging source (solar panel) provides power for the charging of the backup batteries. Over-
charging is prevented by comparing the battery cell voltage to a maximum limit. If this limit is
exceeded, the battery charge cycle is immediately terminated and cannot be re-initiated until the cell
voltage has dropped below the maximum limit.
The charge connections (+CHG and CHG-) are on the removable connector labeled POWER. These
connections provide the input voltage and power for the battery charging circuitry. The charger
circuitry provides reverse polarity protection and reverse discharge protection, so no external circuitry
is required. The maximum voltage that can be applied to the terminals is 22 volts dc. The terminals
are labeled CHG+ for charge input positive and CHG- for charge input negative.
A 12-volt solar panel with an output regulated to no more than 15 volts can be directly connected to
the +BAT and BAT- terminals.
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