COMPANION COMPBI023 User manual

Australia’s original Outdoor brand
OWNERS MANUAL
SOLAR MAT KIT 125W
Part No. COMPBI023

2
INTRODUCTION
The Companion 125W Solar Mat Kit includes the latest high performance monocrystalline cells with an outstanding
19.5% efficiency making it the ideal portable solar charging solution for charging all types of 12V DC batteries
(excluding lithium).
Ideally suited for camping, 4WDriving, caravanning, boating and other activities to power a range for 12V DC
accessories directly from your 12V DC battery, including; portable fridge, lighting, television, DVD player, bilge pump,
food warmer and even a water pump for a shower or hot water system. You can also connect a 240V AC inverter to your
battery to power a limited range of 240V AC appliances.
Companion Solar Mat Kits are designed for Australia’s tough conditions, using the latest high quality components
which provide dependable performance and reliability in an easy to use compact solar kit.
Utilising the abundance of free sunlight available, the monocrystalline cells convert this sunlight into usable DC
(direct current) electricity. Due to the cells high power output, the electricity produced or voltage output (measured
directly at the cell) is too high to be used effectively. To better control the voltage output we have included a ‘Smart’
5 Stage 12 Amp PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) weatherproof controller to automatically adjust the voltage output no
matter what type of battery is being charged from the four different types available.
Simply, select the correct ‘DIP’ switch setting on the rear of the controller to match the type of battery being charged.
Select from either; GEL, AGM, WET (conventional lead-acid) or Calcium, then connect the supplied battery clamps to
the corresponding battery terminals and the ‘Smart’ controller will automatically decide the amount and rate of charge
the battery needs.
PRODUCT FEATURES
• 27 x 19.5% highly efficient monocrystalline cells
• 6 panels
• 30A heavy duty Anderson style plugs on extension leads
• 5m extension lead – twin core 2.08mm2 ‘fig 8’ cable
• Fused 0.8m extension lead with battery clamps
• Support stand
WARNING: THE CONTROLLER SUPPLIED WITH THIS PRODUCT IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CHARGING ANY TYPE OF
LITHIUM BATTERY. ATTEMPTING TO CHARGE A LITHIUM BATTERY WITH THIS CONTROLLER COULD RESULT IN
FIRE OR EXPLOSION.

OWNERS MANUAL
3
GENERAL WARNINGS
• Do not connect the solar panel output wire directly to the battery being charged. A controller/regulator must
be used inline. Failure to do so, could cause permanent damage to the battery and or personal injury if the
battery ruptures
• Follow the assembly instructions within this manual carefully as to not cause harm to yourself or others, particularly
when ‘connecting’ and ‘disconnecting’ the DC clamps (Direct Current clamps) to or from the battery being charged
• Do not charge ‘dry’ cell rechargeable batteries with this product. To charge ‘dry’ cell rechargeable batteries,
connect an appropriate sized 240V inverter to the 12V DC battery being charged by the solar panel. Then connect
the 240V AC ‘dry’ cell charger which came with the batteries to the 240V inverter ensuring that the manufactures
guidelines are followed
• Do not charge ‘dry’ cell non-rechargeable batteries
• Do not charge a damaged battery
• Do not charge a frozen battery
• Do not use this solar mat kit if it is damaged in anyway, contact Customer Service for advice if necessary, details
are at the back of this booklet
• Do not disassemble the solar mat or controller
• Ensure that the battery being charged is in a well ventilated area as poisonous gasses are emitted during the
charging process
• Ensure that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn while in close proximity to the battery being
charged; safety glasses, gloves, protective clothing as a minimum
• Ensure that no metal objects or jewellery contacts the battery terminals. It is recommended to remove rings,
bracelets etc when working with 12V DC batteries. A 12V DC battery can produce a short-circuit current high
enough to melt metallic materials possibly causing severe burns
• Do not smoke or have the battery in the vicinity of sparks, open flame, fuel or solvents while the battery is being
charged. Gases emitted could be ‘ EXPLOSIVE’
• Battery acid is highly corrosive. Avoid ‘CHEMICAL BURNS’ wash effected area immediately with clean running
water if contact is made with your skin or eyes. Seek medical advice
• Disconnect power from the solar mat by separating at least one join between either extension lead before
connecting’ or ‘disconnecting’ the DC clamps to or from the battery
• Ensure correct DC clamp connection ‘sequence’ when ‘connecting’ and ‘disconnecting’ the DC clamps to or from
the battery being charged. A simple way to remember is; The negative ‘-’ DC clamp is ‘Last’ on and ‘First’ off (the
negative ‘-’ battery terminal). This will reduce the dangers of potential short-circuit and excessive sparking of the
battery terminals
IMPORTANT: THIS USER MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS. PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY TO FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH THE PRODUCT AND
ACCESSORIES BEFORE CONNECTING TO THE BATTERY BEING CHARGED. KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SAFE PLACE
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

4
• Ensure correct DC clamp connection ‘polarity’ when ‘connecting’ to the battery being charged. Connect the ‘Red’
coloured DC clamp to the positive ‘+’ battery terminal. Then connect the ‘Black’ coloured DC clamp to the negative
‘-’ battery terminal
• Immediately cease charging if the battery being charged is found to be excessively hot, leaks or appears to be
taking a long time to charge
• This product must not be used by children or by an adult who has reduced physical or mental capabilities. Also,
this product is not to be used by an adult who has a lack of knowledge or experience with this type of product,
unless they are being supervised by a person who is competent in the safe use of this type of product
• Caution should be taken when charging an accessory battery when connected to a ‘Dual Battery Monitor’ or a
‘Volt Sensitive Relay’ (VSR). It is important that the battery circuit is ‘open’
• Note: This product is designed for portable short term use. It is NOT suitable for long term permanent installation
CAUTION
Care must be taken when handling this product and while in use:
• Do not stand on the Solar Mat panels
• Do not bend the Solar Mat panels
• Do not throw or drop the Solar Mat onto the ground
• Ensure that the Solar Mat is unfolded carefully, while at the same time supporting each panel
• Ensure that the Solar Mat is placed onto a cleared and flat as possible area while in use
• Pick up and fold the Solar Mat by supporting the whole panel, not by the panel corner or edge
• Ensure that the Solar Mat is packed within the vehicle as to not cause damage by crushing or bending
• Any damage to the Solar Mat, Panels or Cells caused by inappropriate handling may void the warranty

OWNERS MANUAL
5
UNDERSTANDING YOUR SOLAR CHARGER AND SOLAR MAT
Solar Mat Kit includes:
1 – 125W solar mat (folded)
2 – Heavy duty 900D polyester material
3 – Carry handle with rubber grip insert
4 – Retaining straps with quick release buckles
5 – Front and rear storage pockets
6 – Output lead with 30A Anderson style plug
7 – 5m Extension lead with 30A Anderson style plugs
8 – 0.8m Fused battery clamp extension lead
9 – 12A PWM weatherproof controller
10 – Instruction manual
11 – 125W solar mat (unfolded)
12 – Support stand
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Australia’s original Outdoor brand
OWNERS MANUAL
SOLAR MAT KIT 125W
Part No. COMPBI023
10
12

6
CONTROLLER/REGULATOR SPECIFICATION AND OPERATION
Features:
• Advanced Micro Control Unit (MCU) uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology for high efficient operation
• Able to charge four types of 12V DC batteries; GEL, AGM, WET (conventional lead-acid) and Calcium ONLY
• 5 stage charging with built-in regulator prevents your battery from being over or undercharged. Overcharging
occurs when the charge voltage is unregulated and can result in premature battery failure. Undercharging is
common with some conventional lead-acid and calcium batteries causing the battery not to perform to capacity
• Automatic equalisation feature to revive deeply drained lead-acid and calcium batteries
• Can be connected to the battery permanently to keep the battery fully charged by using a process called ‘float
charge’. This means the controller will stop charging when the battery is full and will automatically start charging
the battery as required. This process will also reduce water loss and help prevent the battery from ‘drying out’
• Coloured LED’s to easily indicate the operational status, battery condition and fault codes
• Built-in protection to prevent your battery from discharge in low or no light conditions
• Multiple protection against reverse polarity, short circuit, over temperature and over voltage
• Surface mountable
• Weatherproof design
OPERATION – DIP SWITCH
Please check your battery manufacture’s specifications to select the correct battery type to be charged. There are four
battery types to select from, including; GEL, AGM, WET (conventional lead-acid) and Calcium.
The ‘DIP’ switch is located on the rear of the solar controller. Use the ‘DIP’ switch to select the corresponding settings
to match the battery type that you are charging from the diagram below. The default setting from the factory is AGM
type battery.
IMPORTANT: ONCE THE ‘DIP’ SWITCH SETTING HAS BEEN SELECTED AND THE CHARGING PROCESS HAS
BEGUN, DO NOT CHANGE THE ‘DIP’ SWITCH SETTING AT THIS POINT AS DAMAGING TO THE BATTERY MAY
OCCUR. DISCONNECT THE BATTERY BEFORE CHANGING THE ‘DIP’ SWITCH SETTING.
Battery
DIP Switch
Battery Type
Selection
ON
1 2
Solar Cells
Battery
Type
Dip Switch Position
Side 1 Side 2
AGM Down Down
GEL Up Down
WET Down Up
CALC Up Up

OWNERS MANUAL
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OPERATION – CHARGING
Level 1. Soft Charge: When a battery has been over-discharged, the controller will softly ramp up the battery
voltage to 10V
Level 2. Bulk Charge: Maximum current charging until the battery rises to absorption level
Level 3. Absorption Charge: Constant voltage charging until the battery is over 85%
Level 4. Equalization Charge: Only for WET or Calcium battery types and when the battery is deeply drained below
11.5V. It will automatically run this stage to bring the internal cells to an equal state in an attempt to
restore lost capacity. (GEL and AGM type batteries do not run this equalization charge)
Level 5. Float Charge: Battery is fully charged and maintained at a safe level.
OPERATION – LED INDICATION AND FAULT CODES
Level 4
Level 5
Level 3
Level 2
Level 1
Three LED’s indicate the
charging status & fault
connection
FAULT CHARGE FULL
Red Blue Green
Solar power present -
no battery connected
ON SLOW Flash SLOW Flash
Battery reversed ON FAST Flash FAST Flash
Solar panel reversed OFF OFF OFF
Soft start charging OFF SLOW Flash OFF
Bulk, Absorption,
Equalization charging
OFF ON OFF
Float charging OFF OFF ON
Solar panel weak SLOW Flash OFF OFF
At night, no charge OFF OFF OFF

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OPERATION – SET UP
Step 1:
Remove the solar mat and accessory leads from the original packaging. Check the solar mat, leads and connectors for
any damage before use.
Select a suitably cleared area to unfold the solar mat. The position should allow the solar mat to have a clear view of
the sun and facing in the direction of ‘North’ as close as possible. if required, assemble the three wire support stands
and adjust the buckle straps to achieve the optimal angle towards the sun
Step 2:
Refer to the specification label on your battery or consult the battery manufacture to establish the type of battery being
charged. Set the ‘DIP’ switch on the rear of the controller to the matching battery type being charged.
Step 3:
FIRST , connect the DC clamp on the 0.8m extension lead to the correct polarity terminals on the battery being charged.
Example; A‘RED’ DC clamp to the Positive ‘+’ terminal and the B‘BLACK’ DC clamp to the negative ‘ –’ terminal.
CConnect other end of the 0.8m extension lead (30A plug) to the controller output (30A plug)
DConnect the controller input lead (30A plug) to either end of the 5m extension lead (30A plug) then finally, join the
remaining end of the 5m extension lead to the solar mat output lead E
Ensure the all connections are firm and that the extension lead is positioned not to cause a tripping danger to people
walking by. And that’s it, your battery will now be charging.
Also ensure that the solar panels are kept in direct sunlight for optimum efficiency. The solar panels may have to be
moved periodically throughout the day to track the sun’s path.
NOTE: IF DAMAGE IS FOUND ON ANY PART, IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THAT THEY ARE REPLACED WITH
GENUINE PARTS AVAILABLE FROM COMPANION BRANDS. PLEASE CONTACT COMPANION BRANDS CUSTOMER
SERVICE (DETAILS ARE AT THE BACK OF THIS BOOKLET) IF SPARE PARTS ARE REQUIRED.
WARNING: CELLS (PANELS) WILL START PRODUCING ELECTRICITY AS SOON AS THEY ARE EXPOSED TO THE
SUN. CARE MUST BE TAKEN WHEN CONNECTING THE DC CLAMPS TO THE BATTERY AND JOINING THE EXTENSION
LEADS. TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF AN ELECTRIC SHOCK OR SHORT-CIRCUIT, IT IS RECOMMENDED
TO PLACE A BLANKET OR TARP OVER THE PANELS TO BLOCK OUT ANY SUNLIGHT TEMPORALLY WHILE ALL
CONNECTIONS ARE MADE.
NOTE: IT IS RECOMMENDED TO ESTABLISH CONNECTIONS (DC CLAMPS) AT THE BATTERY BEING CHARGED
FIRST. THEN, JOIN THE CONNECTORS IN SEQUENCE WORKING BACK TOWARDS THE SOLAR MAT. THIS WILL
ELIMINATE THE DANGER OF HAVING ‘LIVE’ BATTERY CLAMPS INADVERTENTLY BEING SORT-CIRCUITED
CAUSING SPARKS AND POSSIBLY FIRE.

OWNERS MANUAL
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Place the solar panel
facing to the sun
Collect power
from the sun
From solar
input lead
To battery
output lead
Solar Mat output lead
5m Extension
Lead
0.8m Extension
Lead
Red
clamp
E
D
B
A
C
Black
clamp
Winter angle
setting
Summer angle
setting

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How does the solar mat work?
A: The solar mat converts sunlight energy into DC (direct current) electric power to charge rechargeable batteries.
The batteries are then used to run your lights, fridge or power an inverter.
Q: What type of batteries can be charged with this solar mat kit?
A: The controller is factory set for AGM batteries, however the controller can also be set to charge GEL, WET and
Calcium by selecting the corresponding ‘DIP’ switch setting on the rear of the controller. Do not charge ‘dry’ cell
rechargeable batteries or ‘dry’ cell non-rechargeable batteries.
Q: Can I bypass the controller to charge my battery?
A: No, the voltage output directly from the solar mat exceeds the optimum voltage recommended to charge the battery.
The controller automatically regulates the voltage output to suit the particular battery size and type being charged.
Q: Will the solar mat overcharge my battery?
A: The controller (regulator) ensures that a steady charge is supplied and will not over charge the battery.
The controller has up to five levels of charging and will automatically evaluate the battery’s condition to establish
whether to; Soft Charge, Bulk Charge, Absorption Charge, Equalization Charge (only for WET or Calcium batteries)
or Float Charge.
Q: Why is it when it is a clear or slightly overcast day and the solar controller amperage output is a lot less than
the rated specification?
A: The solar controller is smart enough to know what the battery actually needs in regard to amperage input. If the battery
is almost fully discharged the solar controller will allow maximum amperage to flow through to the battery. If the battery
is almost or fully charged the solar controller will automatically reduce the amperage input to the required level.
Amperage output from the solar controller is also affected by shade or intermittent cloud cover.
Q; How many Amps do I get out of my 125W Solar Mat and what can I run?
A: A 125W kit can supply between 5 and 6 Amps in optimal conditions on a sunny day or for most of the sunlight hours
of the day. There are many variables, but let’s assume that we can achieve 6 to 7 sunlight hours in a day, anymore
sunlight hours would be considered a bonus.
Provided it is not too cloudy, the solar mat is moved every now and again to best track the sun’s path and the solar
mat is kept out of the shade, it is safe to assume that the solar mat can supply between 5 and 6 Amps per
charging hour.
So, putting this into perspective, let’s assume that the 125W solar mat is charging a 100Ah battery. You wish to run a 40L
Fridge which draws on average 1.5A over a 24hr period, and 2 x LED camp lights which draw 1.0A each when running.
You want to have the fridge running (cycling) 24 hours a day, and the camp lights on for 3 hours each night.
Fridge: 1.5A x 24h = 36Ah
Lights: 1.0A x 3h = 3Ah x 2 lights = 6Ah
Total: 42Ah per day.
Your solar mat can supply:
5.5A x 6h = 33Ah each day.

OWNERS MANUAL
11
Therefore the battery is being discharged by:
42Ah – 33Ah = 9Ah each day.
Although you have a 100Ah battery, it is recommended when calculating run times is to allow yourself a buffer and
calculate using only 50% of the battery specification. So, in this case using 50Ah you could run your fridge and lights for:
50Ah / 9Ah = 5.5 days or just under a week without any other form of charge.
MAINTENANCE
Periodically, clean the panels with warm water and a soft sponge or cloth to remove any built up dust or foreign
deposits. Keeping your solar panels clean will ensure optimum performance.
TROUBLESHOOTING
The solar mat and controller are both sealed units and cannot be repaired. If a problem does occur, double checking
all connections, including correct polarity of the DC battery clamps and or disconnect the DC battery clamps from
the battery and wait 30 seconds (this will reset the controller). If after reconnecting the DC battery clamps and the
problem persists, please contact Companion Brands customer service (details are at the back of this booklet).
NOTE: THE ABOVE CALCULATIONS ARE INTENDED FOR REFERENCE & INFORMATION ONLY AND ARE BASED
ON THE CELL “PEAK POWER” OF THE SOLAR MAT. IT DOES NOT TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION ANY EXPECTED
POWER LOSSES DUE TO THE PWM CONTROLLER, LEADS OR ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS.

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TECHNICAL DETAILS – CONTROLLER
Electrical
Rated solar panel amps 12A (max.)
Normal input solar cell array voltage 15-22V DC
Solar cell array voltage (no load) 25V DC (max.)
Lowest operating voltage 9V DC (min)
Standby current consumption at night 2mA (max.)
Voltage drop – solar cell to battery 0.25V DC (max.)
Charging
Battery start voltage 3V DC (min)
Soft start charging voltage 3-10V DC +/- 0.2
Soft start charging current (50% PWM duty) up to 4A
Bulk charge voltage 10-14V DC +/- 0.2
Absorption charging voltage at 25°C
• GEL battery type 14.1V DC +/- 0.2
• AGM battery type (default setting) 14.4V DC +/- 0.2
• WET battery type 14.7V DC +/- 0.2
• Calcium battery type 14.9V DC +/- 0.2
Absorption transit to Equalization or Float condition
• Charging current drops to 0.8A +/- 0.1
• Absorption charging timer timed out 4 hours
Equalization charging active (only for WET or Calcium battery)
• Battery voltage discharge to less than 11.5V DC +/- 0.2
• Equalization charging voltage at 25°C 15.5V DC +/- 0.2
• Equalization charging timer timed out 2 hours
Float charging voltage at 25°C
• GEL, AGM, WET and Calcium battery 13.6V DC +/- 0.2
Voltage control accuracy +/- 1%
Battery temperature compensation coefficient -24 mV/°C
Temperature compensation range -20 to +50°C

OWNERS MANUAL
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Protection
Against reverse polarity or short circuit at the solar cell side Yes
Against reverse polarity or short circuit at the battery side Yes
No reverse current from the battery to the solar cell at night Yes
Over temperature protection during charging 65°C
Electrical connections
Input and output connection 30A Anderson style
DIP switch Yes
Physical
Controller material Plastic, ABS
Weatherproof Yes
Environment
Operating temperature -25 to +50°C
Storage temperature -40 to +85°C
Operating humidity range 100% no condensation

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TECHNICAL DETAILS – PANELS
Cell type Monocrystalline
Cell efficiency 19.5%
Maximum power (Pm) 125W*
Current at max. power (Imp) 6.82A
Voltage at max. power (Vmp) 17.6V
Output connection 30A Anderson style
Cell encapsulation PET lamination
Bag material Polyester 900D
Dimensions (folded) 368L x 395W x 80Hmm
Dimensions (unfolded) 2140L x 395Wmm
Weight 5.3kg – Including accessories
CUSTOMER SERVICE
For more information call 1300 555 197
Email: [email protected]
* Maximum power as per manufacturers specications

OWNERS MANUAL
15
WARRANTY STATEMENT
Warranty
The product is guaranteed to be free from defects in workmanship and parts for a period of 12 months from the date
of purchase. Defects that occur within this warranty period, under normal use and care, will be repaired, replaced
or refunded at our discretion. The benefits conferred by this warranty are in addition to all rights and remedies in
respect of the product that the consumer has under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and similar state
and territory laws.
Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a
replacement or refund for a major failure and for compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage.
You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure
does not amount to a major failure.
Proof of Purchase
This warranty is valid for the original purchase and is not transferable. Please keep your purchase docket, tax invoice
or receipt as the best proof of purchase, and as proof of date on which the purchase was made.
Extent of Warranty
This warranty is limited to defects in workmanship or parts. All defective products or parts will be repaired or replaced.
This warranty does not cover batteries or any other consumable items.
Normal Wear and Tear
This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear to the products or parts.
Exclusions
This warranty does not cover:
.Any defects caused by an accident, misuse, abuse, improper installation or operation, lack of reasonable care,
unauthorised modification, loss of parts, tampering or attempted repair by a person not authorised by the
distributor.
.Any product that has not been installed, operated or maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s
operating instructions provided with the product.
.Any product that has been used for purposes other than domestic use.
.Any damage caused by improper power input or improper cable connection.
To Make a Claim
This warranty against defects is provided by Companion Brands,
If a defect in the goods appears within 12 months you are entitled to claim a warranty, please contact or send all
warranty claims to:
COMPANION BRANDS
PO Box 2186, Bundoora Victoria 3083
Help Desk 1300 555 197
(Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 08:30AM to 05:30PM EST)
email: [email protected]

BUN007
Distributed by
Companion Brands
Bundoora VIC 3083
www.companionbrands.com.au