Owner’s Manual | GP-PWM-25 Regulator
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© 2009 Carmanah Technologies Corporation
Last revised: July 2009
8.0 Troubleshooting Problems
How to read this section
Troubleshooting Problems is split into three sub-sections, grouped by symptoms involving key
components. Components considered irrelevant in a diagnosis are denoted ‘Not Applicable’
(N/A). A multimeter or voltmeter may be required for some procedures listed.
It is imperative all electrical precautions stated in the Warning Section and outlined in the
Installation Section are followed. Even if it appears the system is not functioning, it should be
treated as a fully functioning system generating live power.
8.1 Problems with the Display
Display Reading: Blank
Time of Day: Daytime/Nighttime
Possible Cause:
(1) Unit is in Sleep Mode as per normal operation after no user activity for 30 minutes.
(2) Battery or fuse connection and/or solar array connection (Daytime only).
(3) Battery or fuse connection (Nighttime only).
How to tell:
(1) Wake up the unit by pushing the A Button.
(2) & (3) Check the voltage at the regulator battery terminals with a voltmeter and compare with a voltage reading at the
battery terminals.
If there is no voltage reading at the regulator battery terminals, the problem is in the wiring between the battery and the
regulator. If the battery voltage is lower than 6 volts the regulator will not function.
For the solar array, repeat steps 2 and 3 substituting all battery terminals with solar array terminals.
Remedy:
(2) & (3) Check all connections from the regulator to the battery including checking for correct wire polarity. Check that all
connections are clean, tight, and secure. Ensure the battery voltage is above 6 volts.
8.2 Problems with Voltage
Voltage Reading: Inaccurate
Time of Day: Daytime/Nighttime
Possible Cause:
(1) Excessive voltage drop from batteries to regulator due to loose connections, small wire gauge or both.
How to tell:
(1) Check the voltage at the regulator battery terminals with a voltmeter and compare with the voltage reading at the
battery terminals. If there is a voltage discrepancy of more than 0.5 V, there is an excessive voltage drop.
Remedy:
(1) Check all connections from the regulator to the battery including checking for correct wire polarity. Check that all
connections are clean, tight, and secure. Shorten the distance from the regulator to battery or obtain larger gauge
wire. It is also possible to double up the existing gauge wire (i.e. two wire runs) to simulate a larger gauge wire.