Page 1
Eclipse Solar Suitcase
Renogy 100W | 200W
2775 E. Philadelphia St., Ontario, CA 91761
1-800-330-8678
Version 1.0
Page 2
1
Important Safety Instructions
Please save these instructions.
This manual contains important safety, installation, and operating instructions for the charge
controller. The following symbols are used throughout the manual to indicate potentially
dangerous conditions or important safety information.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially dangerous condition. Use extreme caution when
performing this task.
CAUTION: Indicates a critical procedure for safe and proper operation of the controller
NOTE: Indicates a procedure or function that is important to the safe and proper operation
of the controller.
General Safety Information
Read all of the instructions and cautions
in the manual before beginning the
installation.
There are no serviceable parts for this
controller. Do NOT disassemble or
attempt to repair the controller.
Do NOT allow water to enter the
controller.
Make sure all connections going into and
from the controller are tight.
Battery Safety
Use only sealed lead-acid, flooded, or gel
batteries which must be deep cycle.
Explosive battery gases may be present
while charging. Be certain there is
enough ventilation to release the gases.
Be careful when working with large lead
acid batteries. Wear eye protection and
have fresh water available in case there
is contact with the battery acid.
Carefully read battery manuals before
operation.
Do NOT let the positive (+) and negative
(-) terminals of the battery touch each
other.
Recycle battery when it is replaced.
Over-charging and excessive gas
precipitation may damage the battery
plates and activate material shedding on
them. Too high of an equalizing charge
or too long of one may cause damage.
Please carefully review the specific
requirements of the battery used in the
system.
Equalization is carried out only for non-
sealed / vented/ flooded / wet cell lead
acid batteries.
Do NOT equalize sealed / VRLA type
AGM / Gel cell batteries UNLESS
permitted by battery manufacturer.
Page 3
2
Table of Contents
General Information ......................................................................................................................................... 3
Included Components .................................................................................................................................... 5
Identification of Parts ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Installation ............................................................................................................................................................. 8
Operation ............................................................................................................................................................ 10
Programmable Parameters .................................................................................................................. 11
1. Generated Energy Interface ........................................................................................................... 11
2. Battery Voltage Interface ................................................................................................................. 11
3. Battery Temperature Interface ..................................................................................................... 11
System Status Icons .................................................................................................................................... 12
System Status Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................... 12
Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................................... 13
Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................................................. 13
Technical Specifications ........................................................................................................................... 14
Solar Panel Parameters ............................................................................................................................ 14
Charge Controller Parameters ............................................................................................................... 14
Battery Charging Parameters................................................................................................................. 15
Charging Parameters Glossary ............................................................................................................. 15
Dimensions ........................................................................................................................................................ 17
Page 4
3
General Information
The Renogy Eclipse Solar Suitcase combine highly efficient monocrystalline solar panels with
a 30A Adventurer charge controller to create an easy-to-use, ‘plug and play’ system.
This system is specifically designed for mobile off-grid applications, where space and weight
limitations are abundant. The Solar Suitcase models support 12V deep cycle battery varieties
such as sealed-lead acid, gel, and flooded. With built-in tilting stands, these panels can be
adjusted at different angles to maximize the power output throughout the seasons.
The alligator clips included in this package make it easy to connect the panel to a battery in
seconds. If one ever needs to connect a battery with a different type of end terminal, the alligator
clips are attached via MC4 Connectors.
Key Features
Easy to read LCD displaying solar charge information
Sealed, Gel, and Flooded battery option.
4 Stage charging: Bulk, Boost. Float, and Equalization
Temperature compensation and correcting the charging and discharging parameters
automatically, improving battery lifetime.
Protection against: overcharging, over-discharging, overload, short-circuit, and reverse
polarity.
Negative ground controller.
Tilting stand for maximum solar generating potential.
Convenient storage case for easy transportation.
PWM Technology
The Adventurer utilizes Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology for battery charging. Battery
charging is a current based process so controlling the current will control the battery voltage. For
the most accurate return of capacity, and for the prevention of excessive gassing pressure, the
battery is required to be controlled by specified voltage regulation set points for Absorption, Float,
and Equalization charging stages. The charge controller uses automatic duty cycle conversion,
creating pulses of current to charge the battery. The duty cycle is proportional to the difference
between the sensed battery voltage and the specified voltage regulation set point. Once the
battery reached the specified voltage range, pulse current charging mode allows the battery to
react and allows for an acceptable rate of charge for the battery level.
Page 5
4
Four Charging Stages
The Adventurer charge controller has a 4stage battery charging algorithm for a rapid,
efficient, and safe battery charging. They
include: Bulk Charge, Boost Charge, Float
Charge, and Equalization.
Bulk Charge: This algorithm is used for
day to day charging. It uses 100% of
available solar power to recharge the battery
and is equivalent to constant current.
Boost Charge: When the battery has
charged to the Boost voltage set-point, it
undergoes an absorption stage which is
equivalent to constant voltage regulation to
prevent heating and excessive gassing in the
battery. The default time for this is 120
minutes for the Adventurer
Float Charge: After Boost Charge, the
controller will reduce the battery voltage to a
float voltage set point. Once the battery is
fully charged, there will be no more chemical
reactions and all the charge current would
turn into heat or gas. Because of this, the
charge controller will reduce the voltage
charge to smaller quantity, while lightly
charging the battery. The purpose for this is
to offset the power consumption while
maintaining a full battery storage capacity. In
the event that a load drawn from the battery
exceeds the charge current, the controller
will no longer be able to maintain the battery
to a Float set point and the controller will end
the float charge stage and refer back to bulk
charging.
Equalization: Is carried out every 28 days
of the month. It is intentional overcharging of
the battery for a controlled period of time.
Certain types of batteries benefit from
periodic equalizing charge, which can stir the
electrolyte, balance battery voltage and
complete chemical reaction. Equalizing
charge increases the battery voltage, higher
than the standard complement voltage,
which gasifies the battery electrolyte.
WARNING: Once equalization is active in the battery charging, it will not exit this stage unless
there is adequate charging current from the solar panel. There should be NO load on the batteries
when in equalization charging stage.
WARNING: Over-charging and excessive gas precipitation may damage the battery plates and
activate material shedding on them. Too high of equalizing charge or for too long may cause
damage. Please carefully review the specific requirements of the battery used in the system.
WARNING: Equalization may increase battery voltage to a level damaging to sensitive DC loads.
Ensure that all load allowable input voltages are greater than the equalizing charging set point volta
Page 6
5
Included Components
Remote Temperature Sensor
Measures the temperature at the battery and uses this data for very
accurate temperature compensation. The sensor is supplied with a
6.6ft cable length that connects to the charge controller.
Battery Voltage Sensor
Measures battery voltage accurately. The voltage detected at the
battery terminals on the controller may differ from the real battery
voltage due to the connection and cable resistance. Therefore, this
sensor, though not required, is recommended for best performance
MC4 to Alligator Clips w/ Fuse
Used for connecting charge controller to battery
Page 7
6
Identification of Parts
Key Parts
1. 30A Adventurer Charge Controller
2. Junction Box
3. MC4 Connectors
4. Tilt Stands
5. Battery Alligator Clips
6. In-line fuse
7. Latch
8. Handle
9. Case (Not pictured)
4 1 2 3 5 8 7
6
Page 8
7
Key Parts
1. Select Button
2. Enter Button
3. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
4. PV terminals
5. Battery Terminals
6. Remote Temperature Sensor Terminal (optional accessory)
7. Remote Battery Voltage Sensor Terminal (optional accessory)
76 4
5 3 2
1
Page 9
8
Installation
1. Unlatch and unfold unit then connect MC4 Connectors
2. Connect Battery Alligator Clips to 12V Battery
Page 10
9
3. Unscrew butterfly nut tilt to desired angle and lock butterfly nut
To maximize the output, adjust the angle of the suitcase regularly to track the sun’s movement
throughout the season
Summer
𝜃 = 𝐿𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑑𝑒 – 15°
Fall and Spring
𝜃 = 𝑎𝑡 𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑑𝑒
Winter
𝜃 = 𝐿𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑑𝑒 + 15°
𝜃
Page 11
10
Operation
After connecting the battery to the charge controller, the controller will turn on automatically.
Assuming normal operation, the charge controller will cycle through different display. They are as
follows:
Parameter
Display
PV Array Voltage
PV 0.0
V
Charging Current
PV 0.0
A
Generated Energy
PV 0.0
kWh
Battery Voltage
BATT 0.0
V
Battery SOC%
BATT 0.0
%
Temperature
BATT 0.0
F°
Page 12
11
Use the following buttons to cycle through the menu and change parameters
Programmable Parameters
Simply hold the “ENTER” button for approximately 5 seconds until the display flashes.
Once flashing, then press “SELECT” until the desired parameter is reached and press
“ENTER” one more time to lock in the parameter.
1. Generated Energy Interface
The user is able to reset the current power generation (kWh) back to 0 kWh.
2. Battery Voltage Interface
In this interface, the user is able to select which type of battery is connected to the charge
controller. Choose from Sealed, Gel, or Flooded batteries.
3. Battery Temperature Interface
The user can select between displaying battery temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit.
SELECT
Cycles forwards through the different display screens.
ENTER
Cycles backwards through the different select screens
&
Customize some parameters on the charge controller
Page 13
12
System Status Icons
Icon
Behavior
Constant: System is normal, but it is not charging
Charging: The bars will be sequencing indicating the system is
charging.
Constant: The battery is at full charge.
Flashing: The battery is overvoltage.
Flashing: The battery is under voltage.
System Status Troubleshooting
Indicator
Description
Troubleshoot
Flashing
Battery over
voltage
Use a multi-meter to check the voltage of the battery. Make
sure the battery voltage is not exceeding the rated
specification of the charge controller. Disconnect battery.
Flashing
Battery under
voltage
Use a multi-meter to verify the rated battery voltage.
Disconnect any loads connected to the battery to allow it to
charge.
Other Considerations
Charge controller does not
charge during daytime when
the sun is shining on the
solar panels.
Confirm that there is a tight and correct connection from the
battery bank to the charge controller and the solar panels to
the charge controller. Use a multi-meter to check if the polarity
of the solar modules have been reversed on the charge
controller’s solar terminals.
Everything is connected
correctly, but the LCD on the
controller does not turn on
Check the rated battery voltage. The LCD will not display on
the charge controller unless there is at least 9V coming from
the battery bank.
Page 14
13
Maintenance
For best controller performance, it is recommended that these tasks be performed from time to
time.
1. Check that controller is mounted in a clean, dry, and ventilated area.
2. Check wiring going into the charge controller and make sure there is no wire damage or
wear.
3. Tighten all terminals and inspect any loose, broken, or burnt up connections
4. Make sure readings in the LCD and LED are consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can the kit charge two or more 12V batteries connected in parallel?
A. Yes, it’s possible if the batteries have the same type and capacity and are wired in parallel as
a single 12V battery bank.
Q. Is there any risk that the solar kit will over charge my battery?
A. One of the functions of the solar charge controller is to ensure that your battery is not over
charged; therefore there is no risk of overcharge.
Q. Can I extend the battery leads?
A. Yes, it’s possible – please choose the same size of cable for extension. However, there longer
the extension, the greater the line loss. Bigger gauge will be required for longer runs.
Q. Do I need to clean the solar panels?
A. Yes, it is recommended for better performance. Dust and dirt should first be swept off the
panel surface using a soft brush. When the sweeping is complete, use a wet cloth to wipe the
panel surface to remove remaining dirt and grime.
Q. Can rain damage the solar kit?
A. The solar panels are fully waterproof (IP66 class), the controller is not. We recommend
protecting the kit from rain, since water into controller may damage the internal circuitry.
Page 15
14
Technical Specifications
Solar Panel Parameters
Description
100 W Parameters
200 W Parameters
Maximum Power
100 W
200 W
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc)
21.6 V
21.2 V
Short Circuit Current (Isc)
6.10 A
11.72 A
Maximum Power Voltage (Vmp)
17.6 V
17.7 V
Maximum Power Current (Imp)
5.68 A
10.35 A
Cell Type
Monocrystalline
Monocrystalline
Operating Temperature
−40°F to +185°F
−40°F to +185°F
Folded Size
21.1 X 21.5 X 3.1 in
41.3 X 21.1 X 3.1 in
Net Weight
19.40 lbs.
33.60 lbs.
Charge Controller Parameters
Description
Parameter
Nominal Voltage
12 VDC
Rated Charge Current
30A
Max. PV Input Voltage
25 VDC
Equalization Voltage
Sealed: 14.6 V; Gel: None; Flooded: 14.8 V
Boost Voltage
Sealed: 14.4 V; Gel: 14.2 V; Flooded: 14.6 V
Float Voltage
13.8 V
Under Voltage
12 V
Self-consumption
≤13mA
Temperature Compensation
Coefficient
-3mV/℃/2V
Operating Temperature
-25℃ to +55℃ | -13oF to 131oF
Storage Temperature
-35℃ to +80℃ | -31oF to 176oF
Enclosure
IP20
Terminals
Up to #4 AWG
Weight
0.6 lbs.
Page 16
15
Battery Charging Parameters
Battery
GEL
SEALED
FLOODED
High Voltage
Disconnect
16 V
16 V
16 V
Charging Limit Voltage
15.5 V
15.5 V
15.5 V
Over Voltage
Reconnect
15 V
15 V
15 V
Equalization Voltage
-----
14.6 V
14.8 V
Boost Voltage
14.2 V
14.4 V
14.6 V
Float Voltage
13.8 V
13.8 V
13.2 V
Boost Return Voltage
13.2 V
13.2 V
13.2 V
Low Voltage Reconnect
12.6 V
12.6 V
12.6 V
Under Voltage Recover
12.2 V
12.2 V
12.2 V
Under Voltage Warning
12 V
12 V
12 V
Low Voltage Disconnect
11.1 V
11.1 V
11.1 V
Discharging Limit
Voltage
10.8 V
10.8 V
10.8 V
Equalization Duration
-----
2 hours
2 hours
Boost Duration
2 hours
2 hours
2 hours
Charging Parameters Glossary
High Volt Disconnect—users can use the default parameters or assign a rated voltage value
that the charge controller will operate. When and if the charge controller experiences a voltage
higher than what is assigned, it will disconnect itself from the circuit; ceasing charge.
Charging Limit Voltage—depending on the batteries used, there might be a battery charging
limit voltage that is recommended for the battery. This parameter ensures that the charge
controller does not exceed the default or assigned rated charging limit voltage. This is usually
put into play to optimize and extend the life of the battery. Relatively speaking, the higher the
charging voltage then there is a correlation for reduced battery efficiency. (Likewise the lower
the discharge voltage affects battery efficiency.
Over-voltage Reconnect—In the event a charge controller experiences an over-voltage
condition set by the previous two parameters, then this reconnecting parameter is put into play
to direct the controller when it can connect and safely charge again. Typically over-voltage
reconnection is achieved when time has passed (ex. The sun setting), or when the over-voltage
condition is remedied ultimately reducing the voltage to a user defined charging voltage.
Equalization Voltage—equalization voltage is a corrective over-charge of the battery. The user
should consult their battery manufacturer regarding specific battery equalization capacity. This
parameter sets the equalization voltage to set the battery at when it reaches the equalization
state.
Page 17
16
Boost Voltage—users should check with their battery manufacturer for proper charging
parameters. In this stage, users set the boost voltage where the battery will reach a voltage
level and remain there until the battery undergoes an absorption stage
Float Voltage—once the charge controller recognizes the set float voltage, it will commence
floating. The battery is supposed to be fully charged in his state, and the charge current is
reduced to maintain battery stability levels.
Boost Return Voltage—if at any point, the battery voltage levels registers to be below the
boost return voltage for an extended period amount of time, then the charge controller will
commence the boost stage once again.
Low Voltage Reconnect—this parameter allows loads connected to the system will be able to
operate (not fully) again.
Under-voltage Recover—deals with the loads connected to the system. When batteries are
determined to be low due to them approaching low voltage disconnect, then the loads will be
shut off to give the batteries time to recover. This parameter sets the controller to shut off the
loads until it can reach the low voltage reconnect stage.
Under-voltage Warning—this parameter deals with the batteries themselves approaching the
under-voltage recovery state. The user should minimize loads before the charge controller
approaches a level where it will do this automatically to protect the battery from discharging
Low-voltage disconnect—prevents over-discharge of the batteries by automatically
disconnecting any loads. This extends battery life and is the precedent to being in an under
voltage state, recovering from the under voltage state, and finally reconnecting to normal
operational state.
Discharging limit Voltage—the user can set the “discharge” limit of a battery if they choose to
better protect the battery and expand its life. The following chart serves as an example of
voltages and their state of charges. Note that the higher the charging limit and lower the
discharge limit correlates with overall low battery life.
State of Charge
12 V Battery
Volts per Cell
100%
12.7
2.12
90%
12.5
2.08
80%
12.42
2.07
70%
12.32
2.05
60%
12.20
2.03
50%
12.06
2.01
40%
11.9
1.98
30%
11.75
1.96
20%
11.58
1.93
10%
11.31
1.89
0
10.5
1.75
Page 18
17
Dimensions
Adventurer
100W Eclipse Suitcase
Page 19
18
200W Eclipse Suitcase
Renogy reserves the right to change the contents of this manual without notice.
Revision: 12/6/2016
Loading...