IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This manual contains important safety and operating instructions as prescribed by UL
standards for charge controllers used in photovoltaic applications. This manual covers
Trace Engineering model number C40 charge / load controller for use in residential and
commercial photovoltaic applications. The C40 has been certified by ETL to UL Standard
1741 (draft), Power Conditioning Units for use in Residential Photovoltaic Power Systems.
It is also approved to CSA standard CSA-22.2 No. 14-M91 SEP 91.
Before using the charge/load controller, read all instructions and cautionary markings on:
(1) the charge/load controller
(2) the batteries and
(3) the photovoltaic panels
CAUTION - To reduce risk of injury, charge only deep cycle lead-acid, lead-antimony, lead-
calcium, gel cell, absorbed mat, NiCad or NiFe type rechargeable batteries. Other types of
batteries may burst, causing personal injury and damage.
Do not attempt to repair the C40. Take it to a qualified service center when service or repair
is required. Incorrect re-assembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.
To reduce risk of electric shock, disconnect all wiring before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk. Solar modules produce power when
exposed to light - cover them with opaque material before servicing.
WARNING - WORKING IN VICINITY OF A LEAD ACID BATTERY IS
DANGEROUS. BATTERIES GENERATE EXPLOSIVE GASES DURING
NORMAL OPERATION. Provide ventilation to outdoors from the highest
point of the battery compartment.
NEVER charge a frozen battery.
No terminals or lugs are required for hook-up of the DC wiring. Wiring should be rated for
75° C and should be no less than #8 AWG / 8.367mm2 gauge wire for use at 40 amps.
Terminals provided accept up to #2 AWG / 33.6 mm2 gauge stranded copper or aluminum
wire.
Insulate tool handles with tape to reduce the chance of a short circuit occurring. Spark or
short-circuits can cause an explosion.
Tools required to make DC wiring connections: Wire strippers, Phillips screwdriver #2,
Slotted screw driver 5/32" (4.5 mm).
This charge/load controller is intended to be used with a battery supply of 12, 24, or 48-
volts direct current nominal voltage..
For battery installation and maintenance, read the instructions provided with the batteries
prior to operating.
No DC disconnect switch is provided as an integral part of this unit. DC disconnects may
be required as part of the system installation. Refer to local electrical codes for
requirements.
No overcurrent protection for the battery supply is provided as an integral part of this unit.
General Precautions
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS !
2
Copyright Trace Engineering Co. Inc. Tel (360) 435-8826 Part Number 2680 Rev. C
5916 195 Street, NE Fax (360) 435-2229 November 4, 1998
Arlington, WA 98223 USA www.traceengineering.com Page
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