Epever Tracer2206AN User manual

Tracer-AN Series
——MPPT Solar Charge Controller
User Manual
Models:
Tracer1206AN/Tracer2206AN
Tracer1210AN/Tracer2210AN
Tracer3210AN/Tracer4210AN

Important Safety Instructions
Please save this manual for future review.
This manual contains safety, installation and operation for Maximum Power Point
Tracking (MPPT) Tracer AN series controller ("the controller" as referred to in this
manual).
General Safety Information
Read carefully all the instructions and warnings in the manual before installation.
No user serviceable components inside the controller. DO NOT disassemble or
attempt to repair the controller.
Mount the controller indoors. Prevent exposure to the elements 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.
It is suggested to install appropriate external fuses/breakers.
Make sure to switch off all PV array connections and the battery fuse/breakers
before controller installation and adjustment.
Power connections must remain tight to avoid excessive heating from loose
connection.

CONTENTS
1. General Information........................................................................1
1.1 Overview.............................................. 1
1.2 Characteristics......................................... 2
1.3 Designations of Controller Models ........................ 3
1.4 Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology ............... 3
1.5 Battery Charging Stage ................................. 4
2. Installation Instructions .................................................................7
2.1 General Installation Notes ............................... 7
2.2 PV Array Requirements ................................. 7
2.3 Wire Size ............................................ 10
2.4 Mounting............................................. 11
3. Operation.......................................................................................14
3.1 Button ............................................... 14
3.2 Interface ............................................. 14
3.3 Setting............................................... 16
3.4 Accessories (optional) ................................. 21
4. Protections, Troubleshooting and Maintenance........................23
4.1 Protection............................................ 23
4.2 Troubleshooting....................................... 24
4.3 Maintenance ......................................... 24
5. Technical Specifications..............................................................26
Annex I Conversion Efficiency Curves...........................................28
Annex II Dimensions ........................................................................34

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1. General Information
1.1 Overview
The Tracer AN series. Based on common negative design and advanced MPPT
control algorithm, with LCD displaying running status, this product is artistic,
economical and practical. Improving the MPPT control algorithm further, Tracer AN
series can minimize the maximum power point loss rate and loss time, quickly track
the maximum power point of the PV array and obtain the maximum energy from solar
modules under any conditions; and can increase the ratio of energy utilization in the
solar system by 10%-30% compared with a PWM charging method. The limitation
function of the charging power and current and reducing charging power function
automatic improve the stability which works even connecting oversize PV modules
and in high temperature, and increase the professional protection chip for the
communication port, further improving the reliability and meeting the different
application requirements.
With the adaptive three-stage charging mode based on a digital control circuit, Tracer
AN series controllers can effectively prolong the life-cycle of batteries, significantly
improve the system performance and support all-around electronic protection
functions, including overcharging and over discharging protection to minimize
damages to components of the system caused by incorrect installation or system
failure at the utmost, and effectively ensure safer and more reliable operation of the
solar power supply system for a longer service time. This modular solar controller can
be widely used for different applications, e.g., Communication base stations,
household systems, and field monitoring, etc.
Features：
Advanced MPPT technology, with efficiency no less than 99.5%
Ultra-fast tracking speed and guaranteed tracking efficiency
Advanced MPPT control algorithm to minimize the maximum power point loss
rate and loss time
Wide MPP operating voltage range
High quality components, perfecting system performance, with maximum
conversion efficiency of 98%
Accurate recognition and tracking of multiple-peaks maximum power point
International famous brands of ST and IR's components of high quality and low
failure rate are used, which can ensure the product‟s service life
Charging power and current limitation function
Compatible with lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries
Battery temperature compensation function
Real-time energy statistics function
Overheating power reduction function
Multiple load work modes

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The communication port adopts professional protection chip, which can provide
5VDC power supply, and has over-current and short-circuit protection.
With RS-485 communication bus interface and Modbus communication protocol,
it is available to meet various communication requirements in different situations.
Monitor and set the parameters via mobile phoneAPP or PC software
Full-load operation without any drop in capacity within the range of working
environment temperature
Extensive electronic protection
1.2 Characteristics
❶
SELECT button
❻
RS485 communication interface
❷
RTS★Interface
❼
Mounting Hole Φ5mm
❸
PV Terminals
❽
ENTER button
❹
Battery Terminals
❾
LCD
❺
Load Terminals
★If the temperature sensor is short-circuited or damaged, the controller will
charge or discharge at the default temperature setting of 25 ºC.
Figure 1 Product Characteristics

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1.3 Designations of Controller Models
EXAMPLE:
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 solar array, there is a maximum energy output
point (Max Power Point) on its curve. Traditional controllers, with switch charging
technology and PWM charging technology, can‟t charge the battery at the maximum
power point, so can‟t harvest the maximum energy available from PV array, but the
solar charge controller with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Technology can
lock on the point to harvest the maximum energy and deliver it to the battery.
The MPPT algorithm of our company continuously compares and adjusts the
operating points to attempt to locate the maximum power point of the array. The
tracking process is fully automatic and does not need user adjustment.
As the Figure 1-2, the curve is also the characteristic curve of the array, the MPPT
technology will „boost‟ the battery charge current through tracking the MPP. Assuming
100% conversion efficiency of the solar system, in that way, 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 conservation of
energy, the IBat is always higher than IPV. The greater the discrepancy between VMpp
&VBat, the greater the discrepancy between IPV& IBat. The greater the discrepancy
between array and battery, the bigger reduction of the conversion efficiency of the
system, thus the controller‟s conversion efficiency is particularly important in the PV
system.
Figure 1-2 is the maximum power point curve, the shaded area is charging range of
traditional solar charge controller (PWM Charging Mode), it can obviously diagnose

4
that the MPPT mode can improve the usage of the solar energy resource. According
to our test, the MPPT controller can raise 20%-30% efficiency compared to the PWM
controller. (Value may be fluctuant due to the influence of the ambient circumstance
and energy loss.)
Figure 1-2 Maximum Power Point Curve
In actual application, as shading from cloud, tree and snow, the panel maybe appear
Multi-MPP, but in actually there is only one real Maximum Power Point. As the below
Figure 1-3 shows:
Figure 1-3 Mutil-MPP Curve
If the program works improperly after appearing Multi-MPP, the system will not work
on the real max power point, which may waste most solar energy resources and
seriously affect the normal operation of the system. The typical MPPT algorithm,
designed by our company, can track the real MPP quickly and accurately, improve the
utilization rate of the array and avoid the waste of resources.
1.5 Battery Charging Stage
The controller has a 3 stages battery charging algorithm (Bulk Charging, Constant
Charging and Float Charging) for rapid, efficient, and safe battery charging.

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A) Bulk Charging
In this stage, the battery voltage has not yet reached constant voltage (Equalize or
Boost Voltage), the controller operates in constant current mode, delivering its
maximum current to the batteries (MPPT Charging).
B) Constant Charging
When the battery voltage reaches the constant voltage setpoint, the controller will
start to operate in constant charging mode, this process is no longer MPPT charging,
and in the meantime the charging current will drop gradually, the process is not the
MPPT charging. The Constant Charging has 2 stages, equalize and boost. These two
stages are not carried out constantly in a full charge process to avoid too much gas
precipitation or overheating of battery.
Boost Charging
The Boost stage maintain 2 hours in default, user can adjust the constant time and
preset value of boost voltage according to demand.
The stage is used to prevent heating and excessive battery gassing.
Equalize Charging
WARNING: Explosive Risk!
Equalizing flooded battery would produce explosive gases, so well
ventilation of battery box is recommended.
CAUTION: Equipment damage!
Equalization may increase battery voltage to the level that damages
sensitive DC loads. Verify that all load allowable input voltages are 11%
greater than the equalizing charging set point voltage.
Figure 1-4 Battery changing stage Curve

6
CAUTION: Equipment damage!
Over-charging and excessive gas precipitation may damage the battery
plates and activate material shedding on them. Too high an equalizing
charge or for too long may cause damage.
Please carefully review the specific requirements of the battery used in the system.
Some types of batteries benefit from equalizing charge on a regular basis, which is
able to stir electrolyte, balance battery voltage and accomplish chemical reaction.
Equalizing charge increases battery voltage, higher than the standard complement
voltage, which gasifies the battery electrolyte.
The controller will equalize the battery on 28th each month. The constant equalization
period is 0~180 minutes. If the equalization isn‟t accomplished in one-time, the
equalization recharge time will be accumulated until the set time is finished. Equalize
charge and boost charge are not carried out constantly in a full charge process to
avoid too much gas precipitation or overheating of battery.
NOTE:
1) Due to the influence of ambient circumstance or load working, the battery
voltage can’t be steady in constant voltage, controller will accumulate and
calculate the time of constant voltage working. When the accumulated time
reach to 3 hours, the charging mode will turn to Float Charging.
2) If the controller time is not adjusted, the controller will equalize charge
battery once every month following the inner time.
C) Float Charging
After the Constant voltage stage, the controller will reduce charging current to Float
Voltage setpoint. This stage will have no more chemical reactions and all the charge
current transforms into heat and gas at this time. Then the controller reduces the
voltage to the floating stage, charging with a smaller voltage and current. It will reduce
the temperature of the battery and prevent the gassing and charging the battery
slightly at the same time. The purpose of Float stage is to offset the power
consumption caused by self consumption and small loads in the whole system, while
maintaining full battery storage capacity.
In Float charging stage, loads are able to obtain almost all power from solar panel. If
loads exceed the power, the controller will no longer be able to maintain battery
voltage in Float charging stage. If the battery voltage remains below the Recharge
Voltage, the system will leave Float charging stage and return to Bulk charging stage.

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2. Installation Instructions
2.1 General Installation Notes
Please read the entire installation instructions to get familiar with the installation
steps before installation.
Be very careful when installing the batteries, especially flooded lead-acid battery.
Please wear eye protection, and have fresh water available to wash and clean any
contact with battery acid.
Keep the battery away from any metal objects, which may cause short circuit of the
battery.
Explosive battery gases may come out from the battery during charging, so make
sure ventilation condition is good.
Ventilation is highly recommended if mounted in an enclosure. Never install the
controller in a sealed enclosure with flooded batteries! Battery fumes from vented
batteries will corrode and destroy the controller circuits.
Loose power connections and corroded wires may result in high heat that can melt
wire insulation, burn surrounding materials, or even cause fire. Ensure tight
connections and use cable clamps to secure cables and prevent them from swaying
in mobile applications.
Lead-acid battery and lithium battery are recommended, other kinds please refer to
the battery manufacturer.
Battery connection may be wired to one battery or a bank of batteries. The following
instructions refer to a singular battery, but it is implied that the battery connection
can be made to either one battery or a group of batteries in a battery bank.
Multiple same models of controllers can be installed in parallel on the same battery
bank to achieve higher charging current. Each controller must have its own solar
module(s).
Select the system cables according to 5A/mm2or less current density in accordance
with Article 690 of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70.
2.2 PV Array Requirements
(1) Serial connection (string) of PV modules
As the core component of PV system, controller could be suitable for various types of
PV modules and maximize converting solar energy into electrical energy. According to
the open circuit voltage (Voc) and the maximum power point voltage (VMpp) of the
MPPT controller, the series number of different types PV modules can be calculated.
The below table is for reference only.

8
Tracer1206/2206AN:
System
voltage
36 cell
Voc＜23V
48 cell
Voc＜31V
54 cell
Voc＜34V
60 cell
Voc＜38V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
24V
2
2
-
-
-
-
-
-
System
voltage
72 cell Voc＜46V
96 cell Voc＜62V
Thin-Film
Module
Voc＞80V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
1
1
-
-
-
24V
1
1
-
-
-
NOTE: The above parameter values are calculated under standard test conditions
(STC (Standard Test Condition)：Irradiance 1000W/m2，Module Temperature 25℃，
Air Mass1.5.)
Tracer1210/2210/3210/4210AN:
System
voltage
36 cell
Voc＜23V
48 cell
Voc＜31V
54 cell
Voc＜34V
60 cell
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
72 cell Voc＜46V
96 cell Voc＜62V
Thin-Film
Module
Voc＞80V
Max.
Best
Max.
Best
12V
2
1
1
1
1
24V
2
1
1
1
1
NOTE: The above parameter values are calculated under standard test conditions
(STC (Standard Test Condition)：Irradiance 1000W/m2，Module Temperature 25℃，
Air Mass1.5.)
(2) Maximum PV array power
The MPPT controller has the function of current/power-limiting, that is, during the
charging process, when the charging current or power exceeds the rated charging
current or power, the controller will automatically limit the charging current or power to
the rated charging current or power, which can effectively protect the charging parts of
controller, and prevent damages to the controller due to the connection of some
over-specification PV modules. The actual operation of PV array is as follows:
Condition 1:
Actual charging power of PV array ≤Rated charging power of controller
Condition 2:
Actual charging current of PV array ≤Rated charging current of controller

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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 PV array.
WARNING: When the power of PV is not greater than the rated charging
power, but the maximum open-circuit voltage of PV array is more than
50(Tracer**06AN)/96V(Tracer**10AN) (at the lowest environmental
temperature), the controller may be damaged.
Condition 3:
Actual charging power of PV array＞Rated charging power of controller
Condition 4:
Actual charging current of PV array＞Rated charging current of controller
When the controller operates under “Condition 3”or“Condition 4”，it will carry out the
charging as per the rated current or power.
WARNING: When the power of PV module is greater than the rated
charging power, and the maximum open-circuit voltage of PV array is more
than 50(Tracer**06AN)/96V(Tracer**10AN)(at the lowest environmental
temperature), the controller may be damaged.
According to “Peak Sun Hours diagram”, if the power of PV array exceeds the rated
charging power of controller, then the charging time as per the rated power will be
prolonged, so that more energy can be obtained for charging the battery. However, in
the practical application, the maximum power of PV array shall be not greater than 1.5
x the rated charging power of controller. If the maximum power of PV array exceeds
the rated charging power of controller too much, it will not only cause the waste of PV
modules, but also increase the open-circuit voltage of PV array due to the influence of
environmental temperature, which may make the probability of damage to the
controller rise. Therefore, it is very important to configure the system reasonably. For
the recommended maximum power of PV array for this controller, please refer to the
table below:
Model
Rated Charge
Current
Rated Charge
Power
Max. PV Array
Power
Max. PV open
circuit voltage
Tracer1206AN
10A
130W/12V
260W/24V
195W/12V
390W/24V
46V①
60V②
Tracer2206AN
20A
260W/12V
520W/24V
390W/12V
780W/24V
Tracer1210AN
10A
130W/12V
260W/24V
195W/12V
390W/24V
92V①
100V②
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
①At 25℃environment temperature

10
②At minimum operating environment temperature
2.3 Wire Size
The wiring and installation methods must conform to all national and local electrical
code requirements.
PV Wire Size
Since PV array output can vary due to the PV module size, connection method or
sunlight angle, the minimum wire size can be calculated by the Isc＊of PV array.
Please refer to the value of Isc in the PV module specification. When PV modules
connect in series, the Isc is equal to a PV modules Isc. When PV modules connect in
parallel, the Isc is equal to the sum of the PV module’s Isc. The Isc of the PV array
must not exceed the controller’s maximum PV input current. Please refer to the table
as below:
NOTE: All PV modules in a given array are assumed to be identical.
＊Isc=short circuit current(amps) Voc=open circuit voltage.
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
＊These are the maximum wire sizes that will fit the controller terminals.
CAUTION: When the PV modules connect in series, the open circuit
voltage of the PV array must not exceed 46V (Tracer**06AN), 92V
(Tracer**10AN) at 25℃environment temperature.
Battery and Load Wire Size
The battery and load wire size must 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

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CAUTION: The wire size is only for reference. If there is a long distance
between the PV array and the controller or between the controller and the
battery, larger wires can be used to reduce the voltage drop and improve
performance.
CAUTION: For the battery, the recommended wire will be selected
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 in a confined area where
battery gas can accumulate.
WARNING: Risk of electric shock! When wiring the solarmodules, the PV
array can produce open circuit voltages in excess of 100V when in
sunlight.
CAUTION：The controller requires at least 150mm of clearance above and
below for proper air flow. Ventilation is highly recommended if mounted in
an enclosure.
Installation Procedure:
Step 1: Determination of Installation Location and Heat-dissipation Space
Determination of installation location: The controller shall be installed in a place with
sufficient air flow through the radiators of the controller and a minimum clearance of
Figure 2-1 Mounting

12
150 mm from the upper and lower edges of the controller to ensure natural thermal
convection. Please see Figure 2-1: Mounting
CAUTION: If the controller is to be installed in an enclosed box, it is
important to ensure reliable heat dissipation through the box.
Step 2：Connect the system in the order of ❶battery ❷load❸PV array in
accordance with Figure 2-2,”Schematic Wiring Diagram”and disconnect the system in
the reverse order❸❷❶.
CAUTION: While wiring the controller do not close the circuit breaker or
fuse and make sure that the leads of "+" and "-" poles are connected
correctly.
CAUTION: A fuse which current is 1.25 to 2 times the rated current of the
controller, must be installed on the battery side with a distance from the
battery not greater than 150 mm.
CAUTION: If the controller is to be used in an area with frequent lightning
strikes or unattended area, it must be installed an external surge arrester.
CAUTION: 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 is a common-negative controller, where all the negative terminals of
PV array, battery and load can be grounded simultaneously or any one of them will be
grounded. However, according to the practical application, all the negative terminals
Figure 2-2 Schematic of wiring diagram

13
of PV array, battery and load can also be ungrounded, but the grounding terminal on
its shell must be grounded, which may effectively shield the electromagnetic
interference from the outside, and prevent some electric shock to human body due to
the electrification of the shell.
CAUTION: For common-negative system, such as motorhome, it is
recommended to use a common-negative controller; but if in the
common-negative system, some common-positive equipment are used,
and the positive electrode is grounded, the controller may be damaged.
Step 4：Connect accessories
Connect the remote temperature sensor cable (model: RTS300R47K3.81A)
（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: If the remote temperature sensor is not connected to the
controller,, the default setting for battery charging or discharging
temperature is 25 °C without temperature compensation.
Connect the accessories for RS485 communication
Refer to chaper3.3 “Setting”
CAUTION: If the remote temperature sensor is not connected to the
controller,, the default setting for battery charging or discharging
temperature is 25 °C without temperature compensation.
Step 5：Powered on the controller
Closing the battery fuse will switch on the controller. Then check the status of the
battery indicator (the controller is operating normally when the indicator is lit in 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
on the controller shows an abnormality, please refer to 4.2
“Troubleshooting”.
Temperature Sensor
Remote Temperature Sensor
Cable (Optional)

14
3. Operation
3.1 Button
Mode
Note
Load ON/OFF
In load manual mode, it can turn the load On/Off of the load via
the “ENTER” button.
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
exit the setting mode automatically after 10s.
3.2 Interface
1）Icon
Item
Icon
Status
PV array
Day

15
Night
No charging
Charging
PV Voltage, Current, Power
Battery
Battery capacity, In Charging
Battery Voltage, Current, Temperature
Battery Type
Load
Load ON
Load OFF
Load Voltage, Current, Load mode
2）Fault Indication
Status
Icon
Description
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 over
temperature
Battery level shows current value, battery frame
blink, fault icon blink
Load failure
Load overload①,Load short circuit
①When 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 nominal value, controller will automatically turn off loads in
50s, 30s,10s and 2s respectively.

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3）Browse interface
3.3 Setting
1) Clear the generated energy
Operation:
Step 1: Press the “ENTER” button and hold 5s under the PV power interface and
the value is flashing.
Step 2: Press the “ENTER” button to clear the generated energy..
2) Switch the battery temperature unit
Press the “ENTER” button and hold 5s under the battery temperature interface.
3) Battery type
①Battery type