[RE-wrenches] Paralleling CC

[Ray]

This is a classic off grid conundrum we've dealt with for decades.  
Generally it take more money than the client wants to spend.  12 v is a 
serious limitation, not just for the PV array, but the inverter and 
battery layout as well.  What inverter do they have?  How old is it?  
What battery are they running?  How old is the battery?  What are their 
expansion needs?  How far is grid away?

I look at all these things when working with the owner of one of these 
legacy 12 v systems.  Generally it costs serious money to rewire to 
higher voltage, but it usually solves multiple problems that they needed 
to solve anyway.

On the other hand, if you want to stick with 12 v, you CAN use the FM 
100, and just use the MATE 3 to program the controller, then pull it.  
We have numerous FM 100s, and we have only one MATE 3 that lives in the 
shop.  It brings the cost to the customer down significantly and 
prevents unnecessary tampering with settings. $600 for the MATE 3 is 
just stupid.  You can buy a decent laptop for that.

Ray Walters
Remote Solar
303 505-8760

On 4/24/20 10:39 AM, Jay wrote:
> Hi All,
>
> Are there any CC out there that can parallel on the input side?
>
> Situation is a older 12v system, 300’ wire run using a MX 60.
>
> Client wants more PV, but CC is maxed out. Upgrading to say FM-100 is way expensive and needs new mate etc.
> Yes could totally redo the system to 24 or 48v and use iota for 12v loads. Buts that’s  expensive.
>
> Installing new wire would be complicated and expensive. But wire is large enough to handle more power.
>
> Are there are any cc that can parallel on the input side, which would be the easy solution if it exists
>
> Thx
>
> Jay
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