[RE-wrenches] Outback FM80 problems

[Richard L Ratico]

Larry & Christopher,

One of my customers has had the same issue with his FM80. In fact, on Outback's
very own user forum, there have been several other instances reported as well.

see:    http://www.outbackpower.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=29&t=3326

We brought this to the attention of Outback months ago. We are now on controller
#3 with what I understand is a trial version of a firmware fix. 

I asked about being compensated for my time to change out the bad controllers
and was told "We can't do that". I am trying to be patient with Outback. 

Dick 

Dick Ratico
Solarwind Electric


--- You wrote:
I don't know the answer but I have forwarded this question to Darren Emmons (the
FM80 software engineer) to have him reply. I am travelling internationally right
now and may not have email access for a few days. 

The auto restart mode should not need to changed - I haven't seen a situation
like you describe but I suspect its just an issue of the setting and probably
the small battery size used in this RV application. 

Christopher Freitas
OutBack Power




Christopher


----- Original Message -----
From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
<re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org>
To: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Sent: Fri Mar 27 16:44:59 2009
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Outback FM80 problems

Wrenches,

Last week I had an FM80 that would operate in bulk mode while reducing  
the current to a few amps on a 1200 watt RV system. The customer said  
he had to reset the controller several times through the day. After  
every reset, full amperage was delivered and the controller would  
eventually transition to absorb and float. I replaced the controller  
from stock and put it on the bench. It works just fine with no other  
equipment attached to the battery.

My question is about the auto restart mode. Default is 0. Should Mode  
0 continue to track the Vmp thru the day or must one use mode 1 and  
force restarts? The MX60 had a Sweep Interval that could be programmed  
for every few minutes. Has this been replaced by the Auto Restart Mode?

Larry
--- end of quote ---