Epever Tracer1206AN User manual

MPPT Solar controller
User Manual
Model
Tracer1206AN/Tracer2206AN
Tracer1210AN/Tracer2210AN
Tracer3210AN/Tracer4210AN

Important Safety Instructions
Please reserve this manual for future review.
This manual contains safety, installation, and operation instructions for the Tracer-AN
series MPPT solar controller ("controller" referred to in this manual).
Read all the instructions and warnings carefully in the manual before installation.
No user-serviceable components inside the controller; please do not disassemble or
attempt to repair the controller.
Mount the controller indoors. Avoid exposure to the components and do not allow
water to enter the controller.
Install the controller in a well-ventilated place; the controller's heat sink may become
very hot during operation.
We suggest installing appropriate external fuses/breakers.
Ensure to switch off PV array connections and the battery fuse/breakers before
controller installation and adjustment.
Power connections must remain tight to avoid excessive heating from a loose
connection.

Contents
1 General Information........................................................................ 1
1.1 Overview........................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Characteristics ............................................................................................... 2
1.3 Naming rules.................................................................................................. 3
1.4 Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology................................................... 3
1.5 Battery charging stage.................................................................................... 4
2 Installation....................................................................................... 7
2.1 Attentions....................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Requirements for the PV array........................................................................ 7
2.3 Wire size........................................................................................................ 9
2.4 Mounting...................................................................................................... 11
3 Operation....................................................................................... 14
3.1 Buttons......................................................................................................... 14
3.2 Interface....................................................................................................... 14
3.3 Setting.......................................................................................................... 16
4 Others............................................................................................. 23
4.1 Protections................................................................................................... 23
4.2 Troubleshooting............................................................................................ 24
4.3 Maintenance................................................................................................. 26
5 Specifications................................................................................ 27
Annex I Conversion Efficiency Curves........................................... 29

1
1 General Information
1.1 Overview
Adopting the advanced MPPT control algorithm, Tracer-AN solar controller can minimize the maximum
power point loss rate and loss time. It makes this product tracks the PV array's maximum power point
and obtains maximum energy under any situation. Compared with the PWM charging method, MPPT
solar controllers can increase the energy utilization ratio by 10%-30%. Charging current limit, charging
power limit, and high temperature charging automatic power reduction; these functions fully ensure
system stability when access to excess PV modules and high temperature running. Increase a
professional protection chip for the RS485 port, which further improves the reliability and meets the
different application requirements.
Based on a digital control circuit, the Tracer-AN series controller owns a self-adaptive three-stage
charging mode. It can effectively prolong the battery lifespan and significantly improve the system's
performance. They are equipped with comprehensive electronic protections to ensure the solar system
more reliable and more durable. This controller can be widely used for RV, household systems, field
monitoring, and many other applications.
Features:
Advanced MPPT, with efficiency no less than 99.5%
Ultra-fast tracking speed and guaranteed tracking efficiency
Advanced MPPT control algorithm to minimize the MPPT loss rate and loss time
Accurate recognizing and tracking technology of multi-peaks maximum power point
Maximum DC/DC conversion efficiency of 98%
Automatic limitation of the charging current and charging power
Wider MPPT working voltage range
Support the lead-acid and lithium batteries; voltage parameters can be set on the controller
Programmable temperature compensation feature.
Real-time energy statistics function
High temperature charging automatic power reduction function
Multiple load work modes
High quality and low failure rate components of ST or IR to ensure the service life
100% charging and discharging in the environment temperature range

2
Standard Modbus communication protocol based on the RS485 communication bus, making the
communication distance longer
A power protection chip, which can provide 5VDC/200mA power and over-current, short-circuit
protections, is adopted by the communication interface
Support monitoring and setting the parameters via the APP or PC software
Comprehensive electronic protection
For the BCV, FCV, LVD, and LVR, users can modify them on the local controller when the
battery type is "USE."
1.2 Characteristics
Figure 1-1 Product Characteristics
❶
SELECT button
❻
RS485 port
❷
RTS interface
❼
Mounting Hole Φ5mm
❸
PV Terminals
❽
ENTER button
❹
Battery terminals
❾
LCD
❺
Load terminals
★Suppose the remote temperature sensor is not connected to the controller or damaged. In that
case, the controller will charge or discharge the battery at the default temperature setting of 25
ºC (no temperature compensation).

3
1.3 Naming rules
Tracer 1 2 10 AN
Product Series
Charge & discharge current10A
System Voltage12/24VDC
Max. PV open circuit voltage 100V
Common Negative System
1.4 Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology
Due to the nonlinear characteristics of the solar array, there is a maximum energy output point (Max
Power Point) on its curve. Traditional controllers, equipped with switch charging technology and PWM
charging technology, can't charge the battery at the maximum power point and cannot obtain the
maximum energy available from the PV array. In contrast, the solar charge controller with Maximum
Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Technology can lock the point to obtain the maximum energy and deliver it
to the battery.
Our company's MPPT algorithm continuously compares and adjusts the operating points to locate the
array's maximum power point. The tracking process is fully automatic and does not need the user's
adjustment.
As Figure 1-2, the curve is also the array's characteristic curve; the MPPT technology will 'boost' the
battery charge current through tracking the MPP. Assuming 100% conversion efficiency exist in the solar
system, the following formula is established:
Input power (PPV)= Output power (PBat)
Input voltage (VMpp) *input current (IPV) =Battery voltage (VBat) *battery current (IBat)
Normally, the VMpp is always higher than VBat. Due to the principle of energy conservation, the IBat is
always higher than IPV. The greater the difference between VMpp &VBat, the greater the difference between
IPV& IBat. The greater the difference between the array and the battery will also decrease the system
conversion efficiency. Therefore, the controller's conversion efficiency is particularly important in the PV
system.
Figure 1-2 is the maximum power point curve, whose shaded area is the traditional solar charge
controller (PWM Charging Mode). It is known that the MPPT mode can improve solar PV usage.

4
According to the test, the MPPT controller can raise 20%-30% efficiency compared to the PWM
controller. (Specified value may be fluctuant due to the influence of the circumstance and energy loss.)
Figure 1-2 Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology
In actual application, as shading from cloud, tree, and snow, the panel may appear Multi-MPP. However,
in actuality, there is only one real Maximum Power Point. As the below Figure 1-3 shows:
Figure 1-3 Mutil-MPP Curve
Suppose the program works improperly after appearing Multi-MPP. In that case, the system will not work
on the real max power point, which may waste most solar energy resources and seriously affect the
system's normal operation. The typical MPPT algorithm, designed by our company, can track the real
MPP quickly and accurately. It can improve the PV array's utilization rate and avoid resource waste.
1.5 Battery charging stage
The controller has a three-stage battery charging algorithm, including Bulk Charging, Constant Charging,
and Float Charging. Through the three-stage charging method, the system can extend the battery's
lifespan.

5
Figure 1-4 Battery charging stage curve
A) Bulk Charging
The battery voltage has not yet reached constant voltage (Equalize or Boost Charging Voltage). The
controller operates in constant current mode, delivering its maximum current to the batteries (MPPT
Charging). When the battery voltage reaches the constant voltage set point, the controller will start to
operate in constant charging mode.
B) Constant Charging
When the battery voltage reaches the constant voltage set point, the controller will start to operate in
constant charging mode. The MPPT charging stops during this process, and the charging current will
drop gradually at the same time. Constant charging has two stages, namely, equalize charging and
boost charging. These two charging processes are not repeated. Among them, equalize charging starts
on the 28th of each month.
Boost Charging
The default duration of the boost charging stage is generally 2 hours. Customers can also adjust the
constant time and preset value according to actual needs. When the duration is equal to the set value,
the system will switch to the float charging stage.
Equalize Charging
WARNING
Explosive Risk! Equalizing flooded batteries would produce explosive gases, so well
ventilation of the battery box is recommended.

6
CAUTION
Equipment damage!
Equalization may increase battery voltage to the level that damages sensitive
DC loads. Verify that the load's allowable input voltages are greater than the
equalizing charging setpoint voltage.
Over-charging and excessive gas precipitation may damage the battery plates
and activate material shedding on them. Too high an equalize charging or for too
long may cause damage. Please carefully review the specific requirements of
the battery used in the system.
Some battery types benefit from equalizing charging, stirring electrolytes, balancing battery voltage, and
accomplishing chemical reactions. Equalize charging increases the battery voltage to make it higher than
the standard complement voltage, gasifying the battery electrolyte.
If the controller automatically controls the next charge for equalizing charging, the equalizing charging
time is 120 minutes. Equalize charge and boost charge are not carried out constantly in a full charge
process to avoid too much gas precipitation or overheating of the battery.
CAUTION:
Due to the installation environment or load work, the system may not stabilize
the battery voltage at a constant voltage. The controller will accumulate the time
when the battery voltage is equal to the set value. When the accumulative time
is equal to 3 hours, the system will automatically switch to float charging.
If the controller time is not adjusted, the controller will equalize charging
following the inner time.
C) Float Charging
After the constant charging stage, the controller will reduce the battery voltage to the float charging
preset voltage by reducing the charging current. During the floating charge stage, the battery is charged
weakly to ensure that the battery is maintained in a fully charged state. In the float charging stage, loads
can obtain almost all power from the solar panel. Suppose loads' power exceeds the solar array's power.
In that case, the controller will no longer maintain the battery voltage in the float charging stage. When
the battery voltage goes lower than the set value of the boost recharge voltage, the system will exit the
float charging stage and enter the bulk charging stage again.

7
2 Installation
2.1 Attentions
Be careful when installing the batteries. Please wear eye protection when installing the open-type
lead-acid battery and rinse with clean water in time for battery acid contact.
Keep the battery away from any metal objects, which may cause a short circuit of the battery.
Acid gas may be generated when the battery is charged. Confirm that the surrounding environment
is well ventilated.
Avoid direct sunlight and rain infiltration when installing it outdoor.
Loose power connectors and corroded wires may result in high heat that can melt wire insulation,
burn surrounding materials, or even cause a fire. Ensure tight connections and secure cables with
cable clamps to prevent them from swaying in moving applications.
Only charge the lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries within the control range of this controller.
The battery connector may be wired to another battery or a bank of batteries. The following
instructions refer to a singular battery. Still, it is implied that the battery connection can be made to
either one battery or a group of batteries in a battery bank.
Select the system cables according to 5A/mm2or less current density.
2.2 Requirements for the PV array
(1) Serial connection (string) of PV modules
As the core component of the solar system, the controller needs to suit various types of PV modules and
maximize solar energy conversion into electricity. According to the open-circuit voltage (VOC) and the
maximum power point voltage (VMPP) of the MPPT controller, the serial connection of PV modules
suitable for different controllers can be calculated. The below table is for reference only.
Tracer1206/2206AN:
System voltage
36cell
Voc＜23V
48cell
Voc＜31V
54cell Voc＜
34V
60cell
Voc＜38V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
24V
2
2
-
-
-
-
-
-
System voltage
72cell
Voc＜46V
96cell
Voc＜62V
Thin-Film
module
Voc＞80V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
1
1
-
-
-

8
24V
1
1
-
-
-
CAUTION
The above parameters are calculated under the STC (Standard Test
Condition)--module temperature 25℃, air mass1.5, irradiance 1000W/m2.)
Tracer1210/2210/3210/4210AN:
System voltage
36cell
Voc＜23V
48cell
Voc＜31V
54cell
Voc＜34V
60cell
Voc＜38V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
4
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
24V
4
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
System voltage
72cell Voc＜46V
96cell Voc＜62V
Thin-Film
module
Voc＞80V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
2
1
1
1
1
24V
2
1
1
1
1
CAUTION
The above parameters are calculated under the STC (Standard Test
Condition)--module temperature 25℃, air mass1.5, irradiance 1000W/m2.)
(2) Max. PV Array Power
The MPPT controller has the function of current/power-limiting. Namely, when the charging current or
power exceeds the rated value, the controller will automatically reduce the actual charging current or
power to the rated value. The function can effectively protect the charging parts of the controller and
prevent damages to the controller due to the connection of some over-specification PV modules. The
actual PV array running status shows as below:
Condition 1: Actual charging power of the PV array ≤ Rated charging power of the controller
Condition 2: Actual charging current of the PV array ≤ Rated charging current of the controller
When the controller operates under "Condition 1" or "Condition 2", it will carry out the charging as per the
actual current or power; at this time, the controller can work at the maximum power point of the PV array.
CAUTION
The controller may be damaged when:
1. The PV module's power is not greater than the rated charging power.
2. The PV array's maximum open-circuit voltage is more than
60(Tracer**06AN)/100V(Tracer**10AN)(at the lowest environmental temperature).
Condition 3: Actual charging power of the PV array＞Rated charging power of the controller

9
Condition 4: Actual charging current of the PV array＞Rated charging current of the controller
When the controller operates under "Condition 3" or "Condition 4," ，it will carry out the charging as per
the rated current or power.
CAUTION
The controller may be damaged when:
1. The PV module's power is greater than the rated charging power.
2. The PV array's maximum open-circuit voltage is more than
60(Tracer**06AN)/100V(Tracer**10AN)(at the lowest environmental temperature).
According to the "Peak Sun Hours diagram," if the PV array's power exceeds the controller's rated
charging power, the charging time as per the rated power is prolonged. The controller can obtain more
energy. However, in the practical application, the maximum power of the PV array shall be not higher
than 1.5 times the rated charging power of the controller. Suppose the maximum power of the PV array
exceeds the rated charging power of the controller too much. In that case, it causes the waste of the PV
array, and increases the PV array's open-circuit voltage, which may increase the probability of damage
to the controller. For the recommended maximum power of the PV array, please refer to the table below:
Model
Rated
charge
current
Rated
charge
power
PV array
Max. PV power
Max. PV open circuit
voltage
Tracer1206AN
10A
130W/12V
260W/24V
195W/12V
390W/24V
46V(At 25℃operating
environment)
60V(lowest environmental
temperature)
Tracer2206AN
20A
260W/12V
520W/24V
390W/12V
780W/24V
Tracer1210AN
10A
130W/12V
260W/24V
195W/12V
390W/24V
92V(At 25℃operating
environment)
100V(lowest
environmental
temperature)
Tracer2210AN
20A
260W/12V
520W/24V
390W/12V
780W/24V
Tracer3210AN
30A
390W/12V
780W/24V
580W/12V
1170W/24V
Tracer4210AN
40A
520W/12V
1040W/24V
780W/12V
1560W/24V
2.3 Wire size
The wiring and installation methods conform to the national and local electrical code requirements.

10
PV wire size
The PV array's output current varies with its size, connection method, and sunlight angle. The minimum
wire size can be calculated by its ISC (short circuit current). Please refer to the ISC value in the PV
module's specifications. When the PV modules are connected in series, the total ISC equals any PV
module's ISC. When the PV modules are connected in parallel, the total ISC equals the sum of the PV
module's ISC. The PV array's ISC must not exceed the controller's maximum PV input current. For max.
PV input current and max. PV wire size, please refer to the table as below:
Model
Max. PV input current
Max. PV wire size
Tracer1206AN
Tracer1210AN
10A
4mm2/12AWG
Tracer2206AN
Tracer2210AN
20A
6mm2/10AWG
Tracer3210AN
30A
10mm2/8AWG
Tracer4210AN
40A
16mm2/6AWG
CAUTION
When the PV modules are connected in series, the total voltage must not exceed the
max. PV open circuit voltage 46V(Tracer**06AN) or 92V(Tracer**10AN) at 25℃
environment temperature.
Battery and Load Wire Size
The battery and load wire size conform to the rated current, the reference size as below:
Model
Rated
charge
current
Rated
discharge
current
Battery wire size
Load wire size
Tracer1206AN
Tracer1210AN
10A
10A
4mm2/12AWG
4mm2/12AWG
Tracer2206AN
Tracer2210AN
20A
20A
6mm2/10AWG
6mm2/10AWG
Tracer3210AN
30A
30A
10mm2/8AWG
10mm2/8AWG
Tracer4210AN
40A
40A
16mm2/6AWG
16mm2/6AWG
CAUTION
The wire size is only for reference. Suppose there is a long distance between the
PV array and the controller or between the controller and the battery. In that
case, larger wires can be used to reduce the voltage drop and improve

11
performance.
The recommended wire is selected for the battery according to the conditions
that its terminals are not connected to any additional inverter.
2.4 Mounting
WARNING
Risk of explosion! Never install the controller in a sealed enclose with flooded
batteries! Do not install the controller in a confined area where battery gas
can accumulate.
Risk of electric shock! When wiring the PV modules, the PV array may
generate a high open-circuit voltage. Turn off the breaker or fuse firstly, and
be careful when wiring.
CAUTION
The controller requires at least 150mm of clearance above and below for proper
airflow. Ventilation is highly recommended if mounted in an enclosure.
Installation procedures:
Step 1: Determine the installation location and heat-dissipation space
Figure2-1 Mounting
Step 2：Connect the system in the order of battery -- load --PV array following Figure 2-2,"
Schematic Wiring Diagram," and disconnect the system in the reverse order.

12
Figure 2-2 Wiring Diagram
CAUTION
Please do not close the circuit breaker or fuse during the wiring and ensure
that the leads of "+" and "-" poles are polarity correctly.
A fuse whose current is 1.25 to 2 times the controller's rated current must be
installed on the battery side with a distance from the battery no longer than
150 mm.
If an inverter is to be connected to the system, connect the inverter directly to
the battery, not to the load side of the controller.
Step 3：Grounding
Tracer-AN series are common-negative controllers. Negative terminals of the PV array, the battery, and
the load can be grounded simultaneously, or any negative terminal is grounded. However, according to
the practical application, the negative terminals of the PV array, battery, and load can also be
ungrounded. However, the grounding terminal on its shell must be grounded. It shields electromagnetic
interference and avoids electric shock to the human body.
CAUTION
For common-negative systems, such as the RV system, it is recommended to use a
common-negative controller. If a common-positive controller is used and the
positive electrode is grounded in the common-negative system, the controller may
be damaged.
Step 4：Connect accessories
Connect the temperature sensor

13
(Model: RT-MF58R47K3.81A) (Model: RTS300R47K3.81A)
Connect one end of the remote temperature sensor cable to the interface ③and place the other end
close to the battery.
CAUTION
Suppose the remote temperature sensor is not connected to the controller or
damaged. In that case, the controller will charge or discharge the battery at the
default 25 ºC (no temperature compensation).
Connect the accessories for RS485 communication
Refer to 3.3 "Setting."
CAUTION
The internal circuit of the RS485 port has no isolation design. It is recommended to
connect an RS485 communication isolator to the port before communicating.
Step 5：Power on the controller
Closing the battery fuse will power on the controller. Check the battery indicator status (the controller is
operating normally when the indicator is lit green). Close the fuse and circuit breaker of the load and PV
array. Then the system will be operating in the preprogrammed mode.
CAUTION
If the controller is not operating properly or the battery indicator shows an
abnormality, please refer to 4.2 "Troubleshooting."
Included Accessory:
External temperature sensor
Optional Accessory:
Remote Temperature Sensor

14
3 Operation
3.1 Buttons
Mode
Note
Load ON/OFF
It can turn the load On/Off via the ENTER button in manual load mode.
Clear fault
Press the ENTER button.
Browsing mode
Press the SELECT button.
Setting mode
Press the ENTER button and hold on 5s to enter the setting mode. Press the
SELECT button to set the parameters. Press the ENTER button to confirm
the setting parameters or no operation for 10s. It will exit the setting interface
automatically.
3.2 Interface
1）Status Description
Name
Icon
Status
PV array
Day
Night
No charge
Charging
PV array's voltage, current, and generate
energy
Battery
Battery capacity, In charging

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Battery Voltage, Current, Temperature
Battery type
Load
Load ON
Load OFF
Current/Consumed energy/Load mode
2）Error codes
Status
Icon
Instruction
Battery
over-discharged
Battery level shows empty, battery frame
blink, fault icon blink
Battery over voltage
Battery level shows full, battery frame
blink, fault icon blink
Battery overheating
Battery level shows current value, battery
frame blink, fault icon blink
Load failure
Overload①, Load short circuit
①When the load current reaches1.02-1.05 times, 1.05-1.25 times, 1.25-1.35 times, and 1.35-1.5 times
more than the rated value, the controller will automatically turn off the loads in 50 seconds, 30
seconds,10 seconds, and 2 seconds respectively.
3）Browse interface
Press the SELECT button to cycle display the following interfaces.

16
3.3 Setting
1) Clear the generated energy
Step 1: Press the ENTER button and hold 5s under the PV-generated energy interface, and the value
will be flashing.
Step 2: Press the ENTER button to clear the generated energy.
2) Switch the battery temperature unit
Press the button and hold 5s under the battery temperature interface.
3) Battery type
①Support battery types
1
Battery
Sealed(default)
Gel
Flooded
2
Lithium
battery
LiFePO4(4S/ 8S)
Li(NiCoMn)O2 (3S/6S/7S)
3
User
②Set the battery type via the LCD
Operation:
Step1: Press the SELECT button to browse the battery voltage interface.
Step2: Press and hold the ENTER button until the battery-type interface flashes.
Step3: Press the SELECT button to change the battery type, shown as below: