Votronic MPP 260 CI - User Manual

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Installation and Operating Manual

Solar Controller MPP 170 CI (12 V / 13 A / 170 Wp) No. 1712

Solar Controller MPP 260 CI

(12 V / 18.5 A / 260 Wp) No. 1717

Solar Controller MPP 360 CI

(12 V / 26 A / 360 Wp) No. 1722

Solar Controller MPP 440 CI

(12 V / 32 A / 440 Wp) No. 1730

Please read this assembly and operating instructions completely, in particular, page 2

"Safety Regulations and Appropriate Application", before you begin the connection and start-up.

MPP Solar Controller for high-quality campers, caravans and boats.

VOTRONIC Solar Controllers of series "MPP" (Maximum-Power-Point) with characteristic line of charging "IU1oU2" are the

link between solar panel(s) and battery (batteries).

Controllers according to the MPP technology are continuously and automatically calculating the maximum power yield

(MPP) of the solar modules several times per minute. The voltage surplus of the solar module will be transformed to a

higher charging current for the battery (realised by high-frequency switching controller technology with high efficiency).

This surplus of charging current ensures short charging times and the best possible power yield of the solar system.

Working fully automatically and maintenance-free, the solar controllers MPP offer the following functions:

• Increased MPP charging current compared with conventional controllers, due to ultramodern controller technology

(microprocessor) by 10 % to 30 % (efficiency > 95 %). This enhanced capacity shows particularly in cooler times of the

year, such as in case of foggy weather conditions or gloomy diffuse light (winter break).

• Switchable characteristic lines of charging or optimum charging of lead- gel-/dryfit, AGM/fleece or acid/lead-acid

batteries, as well as LiFePO4 batteries (see table 1).

• The charging voltage being free from peaks is controlled in such a way, that any overcharging of the batteries is

excluded.

• Two Battery Charging Ports: Automatic charging of the main battery or leisure battery, as well as support charging

and trickle charging (max. 1 A) of the vehicle's starter battery with overcharge protection.

• Unattended Charging: Standard protection against overload, overheating, reverse battery and back discharge of the

battery (in case of insufficient solar power, such as at twilight, at night etc.).

• Parallel and Floating Operation: Observation of the characteristic lines of charging, even with simultaneous operation

of consumers.

• Overcharge protection: Reduction of the charging current of the battery in case of excessive solar power and full

battery. Immediate recharging in case of power consumption to ensure always the best possible charging state of the

battery.

• Characteristic Line of Charging "IU1oU2": A defined charging boost (U1) avoids harmful acid accumulation (lead) and

provides equalization charge to the individual battery cells (lead and lithium). After that, automatic trickle charging

(U2).

• Charging Cable Compensation: Automatic compensation of voltage losses on the charging cables.

• On-board Mains Suppression Filter: Unproblematic parallel operation with wind-driven and motor-driven generators,

mains supply chargers, dynamos etc.

• Measurement Output for EBL, electroblock possibly existing in the living area of the vehicle: Allows convenient

application of the (solar) current display being installed in the electroblock for supervision of the solar system.

• Terminal "AES" (only MPP 260 CI, MPP 360 CI and MPP 440 CI):

Automatic commutation of refrigerators with "AES" (Automatic Energy Selector, Electrolux/Dometic) from gas

operation to 12 V operation in case of excess solar power.

• Connection for Battery Temperature Sensor (Order No. 2001):

Lead batteries: In case of low outside temperatures, full charging of the weak battery is improved by automatic

adaptation of the charging voltage to the battery temperature, and in case of summery temperatures unnecessary

battery gassing and battery load will be avoided.

LiFePO4 Batteries: Battery protection in case of high temperatures and particularly in case of low temperatures.

Highly recommended, if the battery temperature might drop below 0 °C during operation.

• Ready for connection of the Votronic Solar Displays for optimum control of the system:

LCD Solar Computer S: The LCD display indicates the following values: Battery voltage, charging current,

charging capacity, stored capacity and energy (V, A, W, Ah, Wh), Order No.: 1250.

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Summary

Safety Regulations and Appropriate Application

Appropriate Application Restrictions

Defines the specific uses and limitations for the solar controller based on system type and components.

General Safety Precautions

Covers essential safety guidelines for installation, operation, and maintenance to prevent hazards.

Connection

Main;Leisure Battery Connection

Details the connection procedure for the primary 12V main or leisure battery.

Solar Panel Connection

Explains how to connect the solar panels to the controller, emphasizing polarity.

Battery Temperature Sensor Input

Operating Instructions

Battery Lifetime and Maintenance

Guidance on battery care, charging, and storage for optimal lifespan.

Controller Protection Features

Details on the controller's built-in protections against voltage, overload, and heat.

Charging Programs for Lead-Batteries

Charging Programs for LiFePO4-Batteries

Functions at the Main;Leisure Battery 12 V

The VOTRONIC MPP Solar Controller series (170 CI, 260 CI, 360 CI, 440 CI) serves as a crucial link between solar panels and batteries in high-quality campers, caravans, and boats. These controllers are designed to optimize solar energy harvesting and battery charging through advanced Maximum Power Point (MPP) technology.

Function Description:

The core function of the MPP Solar Controller is to continuously and automatically calculate the maximum power yield (MPP) from solar modules several times per minute. It transforms the voltage surplus from the solar module into a higher charging current for the battery, utilizing high-frequency switching controller technology for high efficiency (over 95%). This process ensures shorter charging times and maximizes the power yield of the solar system.

The controllers operate fully automatically and are maintenance-free, offering several key functionalities:

Increased MPP Charging Current: Compared to conventional controllers, these units provide 10% to 30% more charging capacity, especially beneficial in cooler weather, foggy conditions, or low diffuse light.
Selectable Charging Characteristic Lines: The controllers support various battery types, including lead-gel/dryfit, AGM/fleece, acid/lead-acid, and LiFePO4 batteries, allowing for optimal charging tailored to the specific battery chemistry.
Peak-Free Charging Voltage: The charging voltage is precisely controlled to prevent any overcharging of the batteries.
Two Battery Charging Ports: They automatically charge the main or leisure battery and provide support/trickle charging (max. 1 A) for the vehicle's starter battery, complete with overcharge protection.
Unattended Charging: Built-in safeguards protect against overload, overheating, reverse battery connection, and back discharge (e.g., at twilight or night).
Parallel and Floating Operation: The controllers maintain the specified charging characteristics even when consumers are simultaneously operating.
Overcharge Protection: If solar power is excessive or the battery is full, the charging current is reduced. Immediate recharging occurs when power consumption increases, ensuring the battery remains optimally charged.
"IU1oU2" Charging Characteristic Line: This defined charging boost (U1) prevents harmful acid accumulation in lead batteries and ensures equalization charge for individual battery cells (lead and lithium). This is followed by automatic trickle charging (U2).
Charging Cable Compensation: Automatic compensation for voltage losses in the charging cables.
On-board Mains Suppression Filter: Enables problem-free parallel operation with wind-driven and motor-driven generators, mains supply chargers, and dynamos.
Measurement Output for EBL: Provides a signal for the electroblock in the living area, allowing convenient display of solar charging current for system supervision.
"AES" Terminal (MPP 260 CI, 360 CI, 440 CI only): Automatically switches refrigerators with "AES" (Automatic Energy Selector, e.g., Electrolux/Dometic) from gas to 12 V operation when excess solar power is available, saving gas.
Battery Temperature Sensor Connection (Optional): For lead batteries, this feature automatically adapts charging voltage to battery temperature, improving full charging in cold conditions and preventing gassing/load in warm conditions. For LiFePO4 batteries, it provides crucial protection against high and low temperatures, especially below 0°C.
Votronic Solar Display Compatibility: Ready for connection to Votronic LCD Solar Computers for comprehensive system control, displaying battery voltage, charging current, capacity, stored capacity, and energy.

Important Technical Specifications:

Model	Max. Panel Capacity	Max. Panel Current	Max. Panel Voltage (Voc)	Nominal Battery Voltage	Min. Battery Capacity (Lead-Acid)	Min. Battery Capacity (LiFePO4)	Unit Fuse	Dimensions (mm)	Weight (g)
MPP 170 CI	170 Wp	10 A	60 V	12 V	> 40 Ah	> 30 Ah	15 A	131 x 77 x 40	225
MPP 260 CI	260 Wp	15.0 A	60 V	12 V	> 60 Ah	> 45 Ah	20 A	131 x 77 x 40	235
MPP 360 CI	360 Wp	21.0 A	60 V	12 V	> 80 Ah	> 70 Ah	30 A	131 x 77 x 40	285
MPP 440 CI	440 Wp	26.0 A	60 V	12 V	> 100 Ah	> 90 Ah	40 A	131 x 77 x 40	285

Charging Voltage Limitation: Max. 15.0 V for all models.
Current Consumption Stand-by: 4 mA.
Auxiliary Port Vehicle Starter Battery: 12V / 0-1.0 A charging current.
Ambient Temperature Range: -20 to +45°C, max. 95% relative humidity (no condensation).
Cable Cross-Sections (Recommended):
- Panel cables: 2.5-10 mm² (depending on model and length).
- Battery cables (max. 2 m): 2.5-10 mm² (depending on model and length).

Usage Features:

Battery Type Selection: A micro slide switch allows users to select the appropriate battery type (Lead-Acid, AGM, Gel, LiFePO4) and corresponding charging program. This is crucial for preventing battery damage and optimizing lifespan.
Vertical Installation: Recommended for optimal cooling and to prevent water ingress along connection cables. Terminals must point downwards.
Comprehensive Protection: Includes overload, overheating, reverse polarity, and back discharge protection.
Diagnostic LEDs: Pilot lamps indicate various charging states ("Float," "Absorb," "Bulk," "Batt. Low," "AES") and potential issues like over/under-temperature or overvoltage.
Deep Discharge Pre-charge: Gently pre-charges deeply discharged batteries (down to 10 V for lead-acid, 11 V for LiFePO4) with max. 50% solar regulator power.
Automatic Charging Stages: The controller automatically transitions through Bulk (I-Phase), Absorb (U1-Phase), and Float (U2-Phase) to ensure efficient and complete charging.
Temperature Compensation: When a temperature sensor is connected, charging voltage is automatically adjusted based on battery temperature, enhancing battery life and performance. For LiFePO4 batteries, this includes strong protection below 0°C.
Optional Connectivity: Supports Votronic Solar Displays, CI-BUS on-board management systems, and EBL electroblocks for integrated system monitoring and control.
AES Functionality: For compatible refrigerators, the "AES" output allows automatic switching to 12V operation when excess solar power is available, conserving gas. This output remains active for at least half an hour to prevent frequent switching.

Maintenance Features:

Battery Care:
- Keep batteries cool (LiFePO4 preferably above 0°C).
- Store fully charged batteries and recharge them periodically.
- Check acid levels periodically for open lead-acid and "maintenance-free" batteries.
- Immediately recharge totally discharged lead batteries to prevent sulfation.
- For LiFePO4, use only complete batteries with BMS and safety circuits; total discharge must be avoided.
- Partially discharged batteries should be fully charged as soon as possible.
Fuse Replacement: The unit is not equipped with user-replaceable parts except for the fuse. Always use replacement car fuses of the indicated capacity.
Ventilation: Ensure sufficient ventilation around the unit and solar panel. The casing's vent holes should never be covered (minimum 10 cm distance all around) to maintain full charging capacity.
Cable Inspection: Periodically check live cables and leads for insulation faults, breaks, or loosened connections. Rectify any defects immediately.
Safety Disconnection: Disconnect the unit from all connections before any electrical welding or work on the electric system.
Automatic Error Handling: The solar controller automatically recognizes missing temperature sensors, cable breaks, or short-circuits in sensor lines, switching to standard charging voltage rates (20°C/25°C) if unreasonable measurements are detected.
Overload/Overheating Protection: The controller features double electronic protection against overload and automatically reduces charging capacity under adverse installation conditions (e.g., insufficient ventilation, excessive ambient temperatures).
Voltage Measurement: The controller measures voltage rates at its terminals; however, these might be falsified by losses in charging cables. The controller should never be operated without a battery.

Votronic MPP 260 CI Specifications

General

Maximum solar panel voltage	50 V
Maximum charging current	20 A
Rated Current	20 A
Efficiency	> 95%
Temperature Compensation	Yes
Display	LCD
Own consumption	< 10 mA
Operating temperature range	-20 °C to +50 °C
Dimensions	147 x 85 x 40 mm
Weight	250 g
Type	MPPT Solar Charge Controller
Nominal battery voltage	12V / 24V (auto-sensing)
Maximum solar panel power	260W (12V) / 520W (24V)
Protection features	Overload, reverse polarity
Charging characteristic	3-stage (IUoU)