SPECIALTY CONCEPTS Mark III/ 15
SC3
(
Photovoltaic Battery Charge Controller
Installation & Operation Manual
/
15
)
SPECIALTY CONCEPTS, INC.
8954 Mason Ave.
Chatsworth, Ca 91311 USA
Copyright 9 / 1997 Specialty Concepts, Inc.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Specialty Concepts Mark III/15 (SC3/15) is a battery charge controller and system monitoring
unit designed for use in mobile or stationary photovoltaic (PV) energy systems. This controller is
designed to be used with standard lead acid batteries that are normally supplied for use in stand
alone or mobile applications.
The SC3/15 uses a solid state pulse-type charge controller to safely reach and maintain a full
state of charge for the battery. A blocking diode is provided to eliminate losses through the solar
panels (array) at night. This unit includes a battery voltage meter, a solar charge current meter
and a fuse to provide over-current and reverse polarity protection. A "CHARGING” light indicates
battery status. This model is available for 12 volt systems with charging currents up to 15 amps.
The SC3/15 can be mounted flush or an additional knockout box (4x7 BOX) can be purchased for
wall mounting.
SPECIFICATIONS
SC3/ 15 FEATURES
CHARGE REGULATION
•15 amp charge current, 12 volt
•Switching shunt, pulse charging
•Adjustable charging set-points
•Temperature compensation (option)
LOW VOLTAGE LOAD DISCONNECT
(LVD) (option)
•10 amp LVD Relay
MONITORING
•Battery voltage meter with colored
scale
•Solar panel current meter
•“CHARGING” light
DESIGN FEATURES
•100% solid state charge control
•Designed for rugged mobile use
•Over-current protection - Battery fuse
•Reverse leakage protection -
Blocking diode
•Reverse polarity protection
•Lightning protection
•Input noise suppression
•Low power consumption
MOUNTING OPTIONS
•Flush mount
•Knock-out box available for wall
mounting (4x7 BOX accessory)
RELATED SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
The SC3/15 is an integral part of a solar electric power system that includes a PV solar
array, a battery and a load. These items should be installed in accordance with the
National Electrical Code, and with the instructions provided by the equipment supplier.
SOLAR ARRAY PANELS: The SC3/15 is compatible with all makes and models of PV
panels, provided the open circuit voltage (Voc) does not exceed 26 volts (the sum of
the Voc of all modules in series) and the short circuit current (Isc) of the array does not
exceed 15 amps (the sum of the short circuit currents (Isc) of all the modules in parallel).
BATTERIES: The SC3/15 provides the proper charging of standard lead-acid batteries
that are normally used in recreational vehicles, boats, and remote stand alone
systems. These include wet cell batteries (with filler caps) and the sealed,
maintenance-free batteries. A battery disconnect switch should be installed on the
Battery (+) run to the controller. This will allow a safe way to disconnect the battery
during installation.
TWO-BATTERY SYSTEMS & SYSTEMS WITH BATTERY ISOLATORS : If solar
charging of two separate batteries is desired, a switch can be installed to allow
manual selection of one battery or the other. In installations that use a diode battery
isolator with two batteries, the SC3/15 can be connected to one of the outputs from
the isolator, or at one of the batteries itself to charge that battery only. Do not
connect the SC3/15 to the input of the isolator, the SC3/15 will not operate properly
when charging batteries through a diode.
LOADS: System loads such as lights, radios and DC/AC inverters must be 12 volts DC
(unless an inverter is being used). The loads should be fused as recommended and
connected directly to the battery or to a load center/circuit breaker box. See the
diagrams in the "INSTALLATION" section. See “OPTIONS” section for information
on the Low-voltage Load Disconnect option.
OTHER CHARGING SOURCES: The SC3/15 can be used only as a photovoltaic
(solar) charge controller. DO NOT use the SC3/15 to regulate other power sources ,
such as a hydro or wind generator/alternator or an AC battery charger. This could
result in damage to the SC3/15 and/or the generating equipment
The SC3/15 CAN remain connected to a battery that is also being charged by an
another source (alternator, battery charger, etc.) without damage to the SC3/15 or to
the solar panels. Connect all other charging sources, with their own charge regulation
devices, directly to the battery. No isolation diode or transfer switch is required.
NOTE: Some battery chargers or converters powered by 110 volt sources are not
properly regulated and can overcharge batteries if left unattended.
INSTALLATION
WARNINGS / CAUTIONS
WARNING: Electricity, even low voltage electricity, can be dangerous. Installation
should be performed by a licensed electrical contractor or other qualified
personnel only. The requirements of the U.S. National Electrical Code should be
followed.
WARNING: Follow all safety precautions of the battery manufacturer. Proper
ventilation must be provided for the batteries. Most batteries produce hydrogen
gas when charging, which is extremely explosive. Provide adequate battery
ventilation. DO NOT expose the battery to open flame, matches, cigarettes or
sparks.
WARNING: Install properly DC rated, high interrupt, current limiting, over-current
protection and disconnect equipment between the SC3/15 and the battery.
Suitable fused disconnect switches are low cost and provide protection from fire
and damage due to over-current. Refer to the current National Electrical Code or
your local alternative energy vendor for recommendations.
CAUTION: DO NOT exceed the maximum array open circuit voltage (Voc) of 26 volts.
This is the sum of the Voc of all modules in series.
CAUTION: DO NOT exceed the maximum current rating of the SC3/15 of 15 amps. This
is the sum of the short circuit currents (Isc) of all the modules in parallel.
CAUTION: DO NOT reverse battery "PLUS" and "MINUS" connections to the
SC3/15. Reverse polarity or accidental contact to the battery in reverse polarity
will cause the fuse to blow, and may damage the unit.
CAUTION: DO NOT connect the array directly to the battery when the array is
connected to the SC3/15 at the same time. This will cause damage to the SC3/15
when the battery reaches full charge voltage.
CAUTION: DO NOT wire the SC3/15 in such a way that it can be connected to an
alternator (or other charging source) while the battery is disconnected, even if
momentarily. Other charging sources should have independent connections to the
battery.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS:
1. MOUNTING CONSIDERATIONS: - The SC3/15 is designed to be mounted flush
against a wall. It can be mounted onto a wall by adding the optional knockout box
(4x7 BOX). Flush mounting or wall mounting require different installation and
mounting considerations.
FLUSH MOUNT: The flush mounted unit requires a rectangular cut-out in the
mounting surface with sufficient space (2-3 inches) immediately behind to
accommodate the controller. Electrical connection is made to the back of the
controller via wires.
WALL MOUNT: The wall mounted unit (SC3/15 with the 4x7 BOX) is installed onto a
wall surface via four mounting screws. Electrical connections are made through
knockouts in the box to the wires on the back of the controller.
2. ACQUIRE TOOLS AND MATERIALS
TOOLS AND MATERIALS NEEDED:
FLUSH MOUNT:
Slotted screwdriver
Wire cutter/strippers
Drill with 3/32" and 3/8" bits
Keyhole saw or saber saw
Pencil, scratch awl or other marker
Soldering iron and solder (if available)
Electrical tape
Wire of sufficient gauge to run from the panels, to the SC3/15, and to the
battery (See INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS: SELECT WIRE \ WIRE
SIZE)
Mounting fasteners of appropriate type for wall material (3/4 - #6 screws
provided)
Included are wire nuts, four 3/4 - #6 screws and washers and a spare fuse (15
amp AGC).
WALL MOUNT (SC3/15 with 4X7 BOX):
Slotted screwdriver
Wire cutter/strippers
Pencil, scratch awl or other marker
Soldering iron, solder (if available)
Electrical tape
Wire of sufficient gauge to run from the panels, to the SC3/15, and to the
battery (See INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS: SELECT WIRE \ WIRE
SIZE)
Mounting fasteners of appropriate type to mount the box to the wall
1/2 inch Romex strain relief clamps
Included are wire nuts, four 3/4 - #6 screws and washers and a spare fuse (15
amp AGC).
3. LOCATION: - The SC3/15 should be mounted where it can be easily seen and reached
to take the best advantage of the metering. Carefully consider how the wires are to be
run from the solar panel to the controller, and from the controller to the battery. The
SC3/15 should be mounted as close to the battery as possible, and should be mounted
on a vertical surface to aid in cooling.
FLUSH MOUNT: The SC3/15 is designed to be recessed into the side of a cabinet or
wall where the wiring can be accessed from the back. Allow 2 - 3 inches behind the
unit.
WALL MOUNT: The SC3/15 with 4x7 BOX is designed to be mounted on the surface of
a cabinet or wall. Wiring can be run down the wall or through a hole in the wall
directly below the controller.
4. PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS: - The unit should be mounted indoors, out of the
weather, unless a weatherproof enclosure is used. Avoid mounting in direct sunlight or in
a hot environment. Basically, do not mount anywhere you would not put a TV or stereo.
5. PREPARE THE LOCATION PRIOR TO WIRING:
FLUSH MOUNT: Use the template provided to position and mark the cut-out and the
four mounting holes. Make the cut-out using a key hole or jig saw. Start by drilling
holes in the corners, then saw between the holes.
WALL MOUNT: Mount the knock-out box to the wall using suitable fasteners.
6. COMPLETE THE INSTALLATION OF PANEL, BATTERIES AND LOAD: - Follow the
manufacturer's instructions for mounting and wiring the solar panel, batteries and the
load. Install with the correct series-parallel configuration to insure proper system voltage
and current.
7. SELECT WIRE:
WIRE TYPE: - It is recommended that stranded wire rather than solid wire be used
whenever possible, because stranded wire does not fatigue and cause loose
connections over time as easily as solid wire does.
WIRE SIZE: - Wire should be sized of sufficient gauge to safely handle the rated
current of the system and to limit voltage drop. The wiring used within the
controller is of sufficient gauge to handle the currents carried, and these wires are
short enough that voltage drops are not a concern, but larger gauge may be
appropriate for runs to the array or battery.
Approximate Wire Size: (for 10 foot total length: panels to batteries)
# Solar Panels (50 watt) Minimum Wire Gauge
1 # 14
2 # 12
3 - 6 # 10
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