SB 50 [RE-wrenches]

[Allan Sindelar]

Bob,
Let's make a distinction here between sunlight intensity (more watts per
square whatever) and temperature, as the two are not related. The voltage
differential (only) between the PV MPPT and the battery voltage determines
the amount of boost. Intense sunlight boosts the input current with any
charge controller; the MPPT boost is irrelevant. Higher temps mean lower MPP
voltage, thus less boost with the SB. In our region, sunlight intensity is
often greatest in winter.

We use the SB50 and SB3048 as our #1 controller (as in, we need a good
reason not to use it). Simply put, the boost is more cost-effective (usable
amps per buck) than adding more array. The benefit is greatest in winter,
when it is most needed: 1) cold temperatures raise the MPP voltage, thus
more boost; 2) higher loads lower battery voltage, thus more boost.

So to (sorta) answer your question, the boost won't help much if you are
trying to get it in summer's heat.

Allan @Pos E

----- Original Message -----
From: "Bob Ellison, Alternative Energy Systems" <ellison at gisco.net>

> Has anyone got any experience with the SB 50 in intense sunlight areas?
>
> Temperatures will get into the 85 or so range, but the sun is incredibly
> intense.
>
> Is there still enough boost with the heat on the panels or do you loose
the
> advantage because of the voltage drop off?
>

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