Victron energy SmartSolar MPPT 150/60 User manual

MPPT solar charger manual
SmartSolar MPPT 150/60 up to 250/70
Rev 05 - 09/2023
This manual is also available in HTML5.
ENGLISH

Table of Contents
1. Safety precautions ................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. General safety precautions ................................................................................................. 1
1.2. Wiring safety precautions ................................................................................................... 1
1.3. Symbols used on the enclosure ........................................................................................... 2
1.4. SmartSolar MPPT 150/35 FCC and Industry Canada Compliance .................................................... 2
1.5. FCC and Industry Canada Compliance ................................................................................... 3
2. Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 4
2.1. Battery voltage, PV voltage and current rating ........................................................................... 4
2.2. TR or MC4 model ............................................................................................................ 4
3. Features ................................................................................................................................ 5
3.1. Automatic battery voltage detection ....................................................................................... 5
3.2. Outstanding MPPT algorithm .............................................................................................. 5
3.3. Outstanding conversion efficiency ......................................................................................... 5
3.4. Extensive electronic protection ............................................................................................ 5
3.5. VictronConnect app ......................................................................................................... 5
3.6. Display ........................................................................................................................ 6
3.7. VE.Direct port ................................................................................................................ 7
3.8. Load output .................................................................................................................. 7
3.8.1. Virtual load output ................................................................................................. 7
3.8.2. BatteryLife .......................................................................................................... 7
3.9. Battery charging ............................................................................................................. 7
3.9.1. Adaptive 3-stage battery charging .............................................................................. 7
3.9.2. Flexible charge algorithm ......................................................................................... 8
3.9.3. Equalization charging ............................................................................................. 8
3.10. Temperature sensing ...................................................................................................... 8
3.10.1. Internal temperature sensor .................................................................................... 8
3.10.2. External temperature and voltage sensor ..................................................................... 8
3.11. Voltage sensing ............................................................................................................ 9
3.12. Remote on/off .............................................................................................................. 9
3.13. Programmable relay ....................................................................................................... 9
3.14. WireBox ................................................................................................................... 10
4. Installation ........................................................................................................................... 11
4.1. Mounting .................................................................................................................... 11
4.2. Battery ...................................................................................................................... 11
4.3. PV array .................................................................................................................... 11
4.4. Grounding .................................................................................................................. 13
4.5. Connection overview ...................................................................................................... 13
4.6. Electrical connections ..................................................................................................... 14
4.7. Install the optional SmartSolar Control display ......................................................................... 14
4.8. Connect the MPPT Control display ...................................................................................... 15
5. Configuration and settings ....................................................................................................... 16
5.1. How to change settings ................................................................................................... 16
5.1.1. Settings via the VictronConnect app .......................................................................... 16
5.1.2. Settings via the rotary switch .................................................................................. 17
5.1.3. Settings via the SmartSolar Control display .................................................................. 18
5.1.4. Settings via MPPT Control display ............................................................................ 18
5.2. All settings explained ...................................................................................................... 19
5.2.1. Battery settings .................................................................................................. 19
5.2.2. Load output settings ............................................................................................ 24
5.2.3. Programmable relay settings .................................................................................. 25
5.2.4. Streetlight settings .............................................................................................. 27
5.2.5. TX port settings .................................................................................................. 30
5.2.6. RX port settings ................................................................................................. 31
5.3. Updating firmware ......................................................................................................... 32
5.4. Disabling and enabling Bluetooth ........................................................................................ 32
5.5. VE.Smart Networking ..................................................................................................... 33
5.5.1. VE.Smart Networking setup .................................................................................... 34
MPPT solar charger manual

6. Operation ............................................................................................................................ 37
6.1. Start up ..................................................................................................................... 37
6.2. Battery charging ........................................................................................................... 37
6.3. Automatic equalization .................................................................................................... 38
6.4. Lithium batteries ........................................................................................................... 38
6.5. Shutdown and restart procedure ........................................................................................ 38
6.6. Maintenance procedure ................................................................................................... 39
7. Monitoring ........................................................................................................................... 40
7.1. LED indications ............................................................................................................ 40
7.2. Error codes ................................................................................................................. 41
7.3. Monitoring via the VictronConnect app ................................................................................. 41
7.3.1. VictronConnect app status screen ............................................................................ 41
7.3.2. VictronConnect app history screen ............................................................................ 42
7.3.3. VictronConnect app error reporting ........................................................................... 43
7.4. Monitoring via a GX device and VRM ................................................................................... 43
8. Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................... 45
8.1. Solar charger is damaged ................................................................................................ 45
8.2. Solar charger is unresponsive ........................................................................................... 45
8.3. Solar charger is off ........................................................................................................ 46
8.3.1. PV voltage too low .............................................................................................. 46
8.3.2. Settings being edited on an external display ................................................................. 47
8.3.3. Disabled in the settings ......................................................................................... 48
8.3.4. Disabled by remote or BMS .................................................................................... 48
8.3.5. Low lithium battery temperature ............................................................................... 48
8.4. Solar charger is externally controlled ................................................................................... 48
8.5. Batteries are not charged ................................................................................................. 49
8.5.1. Battery is full ..................................................................................................... 49
8.5.2. Battery not connected .......................................................................................... 50
8.5.3. Reverse battery polarity ........................................................................................ 51
8.5.4. Battery settings too low ......................................................................................... 51
8.5.5. PV voltage too high ............................................................................................. 52
8.5.6. Reverse PV polarity ............................................................................................. 52
8.6. Batteries are undercharged .............................................................................................. 53
8.6.1. Insufficient solar supply ......................................................................................... 53
8.6.2. DC load too high ................................................................................................ 54
8.6.3. Battery cable voltage drop ..................................................................................... 54
8.6.4. Temperature compensation setting incorrect ................................................................ 55
8.6.5. Temperature difference between solar charger and battery ................................................ 55
8.7. Batteries are overcharged ................................................................................................ 56
8.7.1. Battery voltage setting too high ................................................................................ 56
8.7.2. Battery charge voltage settings too high ...................................................................... 56
8.7.3. Battery unable to deal with equalisation ...................................................................... 56
8.7.4. Battery old, faulty or undersized ............................................................................... 56
8.8. Solar charger not achieving full output .................................................................................. 57
8.8.1. PV yield lower than expected .................................................................................. 57
8.8.2. Maximum output power relates to battery voltage ........................................................... 58
8.8.3. Temperature above 40°C ....................................................................................... 59
8.8.4. PV connections burned or melted ............................................................................. 59
8.9. Communication Issues .................................................................................................... 59
8.9.1. Bluetooth ......................................................................................................... 59
8.9.2. VE.Direct port .................................................................................................... 60
8.9.3. VE.Smart Networking ........................................................................................... 60
8.10. Miscellaneous issues .................................................................................................... 61
8.10.1. Unable to operate as a DC-DC charger or power supply ................................................. 61
8.10.2. Interrupted firmware update .................................................................................. 61
8.10.3. Ground current ................................................................................................. 61
8.10.4. Programmable relay issues ................................................................................... 61
8.11. Error code overview ...................................................................................................... 62
8.11.1. Error 1 - Battery temperature too high ....................................................................... 62
8.11.2. Error 2 - Battery voltage too high ............................................................................. 62
8.11.3. Error 17 - Solar charger overheated despite reduced output current .................................... 62
8.11.4. Error 18 - Solar charger over-current ........................................................................ 62
8.11.5. Error 20 - Maximum bulk time exceeded .................................................................... 62
8.11.6. Error 21 - Current sensor issue .............................................................................. 62
8.11.7. Error 26 - Terminal overheated ............................................................................... 62
8.11.8. Error 28 - Power stage issue ................................................................................. 63
MPPT solar charger manual

8.11.9. Error 33 - PV over voltage .................................................................................... 63
8.11.10. Error 38, 39 - PV Input shutdown ........................................................................... 63
8.11.11. Error 80 to 88 - PV Input shutdown ......................................................................... 63
8.11.12. Error 116 - Calibration data lost ............................................................................. 63
8.11.13. Error 117 - Incompatible firmware .......................................................................... 64
8.11.14. Error 119 - Settings data lost ................................................................................ 64
9. Technical specifications .......................................................................................................... 65
9.1. Specifications 150/60 and 150/70 ....................................................................................... 65
9.2. Specifications 250/60 and 250/70 ....................................................................................... 67
9.3. Dimension drawings ....................................................................................................... 68
9.3.1. Dimensions 60A-MC4 and 70A-MC4 SmartSolar ........................................................... 68
9.3.2. Dimensions 60A-Tr and 70A-Tr SmartSolar .................................................................. 69
MPPT solar charger manual

1. Safety precautions
1.1. General safety precautions
• Read this manual carefully. It contains important instructions that need to be followed during installation,
operation and maintenance.
• Save these instructions for future reference on operation and maintenance.
• Danger of battery explosion from sparking.
• Danger of electric shock.
• Install the product in a heatproof environment. Ensure therefore that there are no chemicals, plastic parts,
curtains or other textiles, etc. in the immediate vicinity of the equipment.
• The product is not allowed to be mounted in a user accessible area.
• Ensure that the equipment is used under the correct operating conditions. Never operate it in a wet
environment.
• Never use the product at sites where gas or dust explosions could occur.
• Ensure that there is always sufficient free space around the product for ventilation.
• Refer to the specifications provided by the manufacturer of the battery to ensure that the battery is suitable
for use with this product. The battery manufacturer's safety instructions should always be observed.
• Protect the solar modules from incident light during installation, e.g. cover them.
• Never touch uninsulated cable ends.
• Use only insulated tools.
• This product is designed and tested in accordance with international standards. The equipment should be
used for the designated application only.
• Connections must always be made in the sequence described in the Installation [11] chapter of this
manual.
• The installer of the product must provide a means for cable strain relief to prevent the transmission of stress
to the connections.
• In addition to this manual, the system operation or service manual must include a battery maintenance
manual applicable to the type of batteries used.
1.2. Wiring safety precautions
• Use flexible multi-stranded copper cable for the battery and PV connections.
• The diameter of the individual strand of the cable used should not exceed 0.4mm (0.016 inch) or have a
surface area exceeding 0.125mm² (AWG26).
• The maximum operating temperature is 90°C (194°F).
• For MC4 models only: The maximum current rating of a MC4 connector is 30A.
• A 25mm² cable, for example, should have at least 196 strands (class 5 or higher stranding according to
VDE 0295, IEC 60228 and BS6360). An AWG2 gauge cable should have at least 259/26 stranding (259
strands of AWG26). Example of suitable cable: class 5 “Tri-rated” cable (it has three approvals: American
(UL), Canadian (CSA) and British (BS)).
• In case of thicker strands the contact area will be too small and the resulting high contact resistance will
cause severe overheating, eventually resulting in fire. See below figure for examples of what cable to use
and not to use.
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Page 1 Safety precautions

1.3. Symbols used on the enclosure
The following symbols are used on the solar charger enclosure:
Symbol Name Meaning
Danger of electric shock
warning Do not touch the electric connections, there is danger of electrical shock.
Hot surface warning Do not touch the surface of the appliance, while it is running, it will get hot.
Read the manual
instruction Read the product manual before installation and use.
Ingress protection value
IP43 - The electronic components are protected from tools and small wires
greater than 1 millimetre and protected from water spray less than 60 degrees
from vertical.
Ground symbol Indicates the position of the chassis ground connection
1.4. SmartSolar MPPT 150/35 FCC and Industry Canada Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and to RSS of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation
est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit
accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may cause radio
interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de Classe A est conforme à la norme Canadienne ICES-003.
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Page 2 Safety precautions

This device contains a transmitter with FCC ID: SH6MDBT42Q.
This device contains a transmitter with IC: 8017A-MDBT42Q.
To comply with FCC and Industry Canada RF radiation exposure limits for general population, the antenna(s) used for this
transmitter must be installed such that a minimum separation distance of 20cm is maintained between the radiator (antenna) and
all persons at all times and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
1.5. FCC and Industry Canada Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device contains a transmitter with FCC ID: SH6MDBT42Q.
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Page 3 Safety precautions

2. Introduction
The Victron Energy SmartSolar charge controller is an ultra fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charger with an
outstanding conversion efficiency and is suitable for a wide range of battery and PV voltages.
2.1. Battery voltage, PV voltage and current rating
The solar charger can charge a lower nominal-voltage battery from a higher nominal voltage PV array. The controller will
automatically adjust to the battery voltage and will charge the battery with a current up to its rated current.
The product name of the solar charger incorporates the maximum PV voltage and the maximum battery charge current.
For example: A 150/70 model has a maximum PV voltage of 150V and can charge the battery with a maximum of 70A.
The table below indicates the maximum PV voltage and maximum battery charge current of the solar chargers that are covered
by this manual:
Solar charger model Maximum PV voltage Maximum battery charge current Suitable battery voltages
MPPT 150/60 150V 60A 12, 24, 36 and 48V
MPPT 150/70 150V 70A 12, 24, 36 and 48V
MPPT 250/60 250V 60A 12, 24, 36 and 48V
MPPT 250/70 250V 70A 12, 24, 36 and 48V
2.2. TR or MC4 model
The solar charger is available in two different models, namely:
• The TR version - The PV terminals are screw terminals
• The MC4 version - The PV terminals are MC4 terminals
The 60A MC4 model has 2 MC4 male and female connector pairs.
The 70A MC4 model has 2 MC4 male and female connector pairs.
From left to right: Example of solar chargers with screw terminals and MC4 PV connections
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Page 4 Introduction

3. Features
3.1. Automatic battery voltage detection
The solar charger automatically detects supported (e.g 12V, or 24V, or 48V) system voltage (battery voltage) on first power up. If
a different system voltage is required at a later stage, or if the solar charger is connected to a 36V system, this can be manually
configured in the solar charger settings.
3.2. Outstanding MPPT algorithm
Ultra fast MPP tracking
The solar charger contains an ultra fast MPPT controller. This is especially beneficial when the solar light intensity is constantly
changing, as is the case during cloudy weather. Because of the ultra fast MPPT controller, 30% more energy is harvested
compared to solar chargers with a PWM controller and up to 10% more compared to slower MPPT controllers.
Optimal solar yield
The solar charger has an innovative tracking algorithm. It will always maximize energy harvest by locking to the optimum MPP
(Maximum Power Point). If partial shading occurs, two or more maximum power points may be present on the power-voltage
curve. Conventional MPPTs tend to lock to a local MPP, which may not be the optimum MPP.
3.3. Outstanding conversion efficiency
The solar charger has an outstanding conversion efficiency. The maximum efficiency exceeds 98%. One of the benefits of the
high efficiency is that the solar charger does not have a cooling fan and the maximum output current is guaranteed up to an
ambient temperature of 40°C (104°F).
3.4. Extensive electronic protection
The solar charger is protected against over-temperature. The output is fully rated up to an ambient temperature of 40°C (104°F).
Should the temperature further increase, the output current will be derated.
The solar charger is equipped with PV reverse polarity protection and PV reverse current protection.
3.5. VictronConnect app
The VictronConnect app can be used to:
• Monitor the solar charger and view real-time solar and battery data.
• Operate solar charger features.
• Access up to 30 days of historical data and error history.
• Configure solar charger settings.
• Update firmware.
Screenshot of the VictronConnect app, showing real-time data and historical data.
The VictronConnect app can be downloaded from app stores or from the Victron Energy downloads page.
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Page 5 Features

The app is available for the following platforms:
• Android.
• Apple iOS, note that USB is not supported, it is only possible to connect via Bluetooth.
• MacOs.
• Windows, note that Bluetooth is not supported, it is only possible to connect via USB.
The app can connect to the solar charger in the following ways:
• Directly via its built-in Bluetooth.
• Via Bluetooth, using an optional VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle.
• Via USB, using an optional VE.Direct USB interface.
• Via internet or LAN, through the VRM portal, using an optional GX device or GlobalLink 520.
Connection via Bluetooth. Connection via USB.
Connection via Internet or LAN.
3.6. Display
There are a number of display options:
• The VictronConnect app.
• A GX device.
• The VRM Portal, note that a GX device or a GlobalLink 520 is needed.
• The MPPT Control - an (optional) external display that connects to the VE.Direct port. Note that the required VE.Direct cable is
not included with the MPPT Control.
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Page 6 Features

3.7. VE.Direct port
The VE.Direct port is used to communicate with the solar charger. It can be used for several purposes:
• To connect to a monitoring device, such as a GX device or the GlobalLink.
• To connect with the VictronConnect app.
• For external control.
Special cables or interfaces are needed to connect to this port:
•VE.Direct cable - used to connect to a GX device or the GlobalLink.
•VE.Direct to USB interface - used to connect via USB to the VictronConnect app.
•VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle - used to connect via Bluetooth to the VictronConnect app.
•VE.Direct TX digital output cable - used for streetlight control or to create a virtual load output.
•VE.Direct non inverting remote on/off cable - used to remotely switch the solar charger on or off.
3.8. Load output
The solar charger is equipped with a virtual load output.
3.8.1. Virtual load output
A virtual load output can be established to compensate for the absence of a physical load output in the solar charger.
To create a virtual load output:
• Use the programmable relay and enable it to act as a virtual load output via the VictronConnect App Relay function. Refer to
the Programmable relay settings [25] chapter.
• Use the VE.Direct TX cable and enable it to act as a virtual load output via the VictronConnect App RX port function. Refer to
the RX port settings [31] chapter.
The virtual load output can be set up within the VictronConnect app and controlled using battery voltages or the BatteryLife
algorithm. For details on the configuration process, please consult the Load output settings [24] chapter.
3.8.2. BatteryLife
This chapter only applies if the virtual load output is used.
When the solar charger is not able to recharge the battery to its full capacity within one day, the result is often that the battery will
continually be cycled between a ‘partially charged’ state and the ‘end of discharge’ state. This mode of operation (no regular full
recharge) will destroy a lead-acid battery within weeks or months.
The BatteryLife algorithm will monitor the state of charge of the battery and, if needed, day by day slightly increase the load
disconnect level (i.e. disconnect the load earlier) until the harvested solar energy is sufficient to recharge the battery to nearly the
full 100%. From that point onward, the load disconnect level will be modulated so that a nearly 100% recharge is achieved about
once every week.
3.9. Battery charging
3.9.1. Adaptive 3-stage battery charging
The solar charger is a 3-stage charger. The charge stages are: Bulk – Absorption – Float.
Bulk
During the bulk stage, the solar charger delivers the maximum charge current, to rapidly charge the batteries. During this stage,
the battery voltage will slowly increase. Once the battery voltage has reached the set absorption voltage, the bulk stage stops and
the absorption stage commences.
Absorption
During the absorption stage, the solar charger has switched to constant voltage mode. The current flowing to the battery will
gradually decrease. Once the current has dropped below 2A (tail current), the absorption stage stops and the float stage will
commence.
When only shallow discharges occur the absorption time is kept short. This is to prevent overcharging of the battery. But if the
battery was deeply discharged, the absorption time is automatically increased, to make sure that the battery is fully recharged.
MPPT solar charger manual
Page 7 Features

Float
During the float stage, the voltage is reduced, and the battery's fully charged state is maintained.
A storage stage is not needed for solar chargers, unlike for AC chargers, since at night there is no solar
power, so battery charging will stop.
3.9.2. Flexible charge algorithm
The VictronConnect app allows selection of 8 pre-set charge algorithms, or alternatively the charge algorithm is fully
programmable. The charge voltages, stage duration and the charge current can be customized.
In addition to this, 8 pre-programmed algorithms can be set with a rotary switch.
3.9.3. Equalization charging
Some lead-acid battery types need a periodic equalization charge. During equalization the charge voltage will be increased above
the regular charge voltages to achieve cell balancing.
If an equalization charge is required it can be enabled using the VictronConnect app.
3.10. Temperature sensing
Temperature sensing allows for temperature compensated charging. The absorption and float charge voltages are adjusted based
on either the battery temperature (accessory needed) or otherwise on the solar charger internal temperature.
Temperature compensated battery charging is needed when charging lead-acid batteries in hot or cold environments.
The temperature compensation can be enabled or disabled in the solar charger settings and the amount of compensation, the
compensation coefficient (mV/°C), is adjustable.
3.10.1. Internal temperature sensor
The solar charger has a built-in internal temperature sensor.
The internal temperature is used to set the temperature compensated charge voltages. For this, the internal temperature when
the solar charger is "cold" is used. The solar charger is "cold" when there is only little current flowing into the battery. Be aware
that this is only an estimation of the ambient and the battery temperature. Should a more accurate battery temperate be needed,
consider using an external battery temperature sensor, see chapter External temperature and voltage sensor [8].
The temperature compensation range is 6°C to 40°C (39°F to 104°F).
The internal temperature sensor is also used to determine if the solar charger is overheated.
3.10.2. External temperature and voltage sensor
The (optional) Smart Battery Sense is a wireless battery voltage and temperature sensor and can be used with the solar charger.
It measures the battery temperature and the battery voltage and sends this via Bluetooth to the solar charger.
The solar charger uses the Smart Battery Sense measurements for:
• Temperature compensated charging using the actual battery temperature, rather than the solar charger's internal temperature.
An accurate battery temperature measurement will improve charging efficiency and prolong the life of lead-acid batteries.
• Voltage compensation. The charge voltage is increased to compensate in case there is a voltage drop over the battery cables
during high current charging.
The solar charger communicates with the Smart Battery Sense via Bluetooth using a VE.Smart Network. For more detail on the
VE.Smart network see the VE.Smart Networking manual.
Alternatively, a VE.Smart Network that measures battery temperature and battery voltage, can also be set up between a solar
charger and a BMV-712 Smart or SmartShunt battery monitor that has been equipped with a Temperature sensor for BMV,
without the need for a Smart Battery Sense.
Note that a VE.Smart Network can only be set up if the solar charger is capable of Bluetooth communication,
has Bluetooth enabled or is equipped with a VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle.
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Page 8 Features

Example of a VE.Smart Network of a Smart Battery Sense and a solar charger.
3.11. Voltage sensing
An optional Smart Battery Sense or battery monitor measures the battery terminal voltage and sends this via Bluetooth using the
VE.Smart [33] network to the solar charger. If the battery voltage is less than the solar charge voltage, the solar charger will
increase its charge voltage to compensate for voltage losses.
3.12. Remote on/off
The solar charger is equipped with a remote on/off terminal. The solar charger can be turned on or off remotely by connecting a
switch to this terminal or by presenting a high signal to the H terminal or a low signal to the L terminal. Alternatively this terminal
can be connected to an external control device, for example a lithium battery management system (BMS).
There are several ways to turn the solar charger on using the remote terminal(s):
• The L and H terminals are interconnected connected via a switch or relay.
• When the voltage on the H terminal is more than 2.9V (up to the battery voltage) via a switch, relay or other external device,
like a battery BMS.
• When the voltage on the L terminal is pulled to battery minus. (<3.5V) via a switch, relay or other external device, like a battery
BMS.
A virtual remote on/off terminal can be created by using the (optional) VE.Direct non inverting remote on/off cable.
The functionality can be programmed using the VictronConnect App RX port function settings.
3.13. Programmable relay
The solar charger is equipped with a programmable relay. This relay can be programmed to engage when a certain situation
occurs, such as:
• High PV voltage
• Low or high battery voltage
• High or low temperature
• Float or Equalization active
• Solar charger in an Error state
• Day detection
• Load output
MPPT solar charger manual
Page 9 Features

3.14. WireBox
The optional MPPT WireBox is a plastic cover that can be attached to the bottom of the solar charger. It covers the battery and
solar terminals, preventing accidental or inquisitive contact with the battery and PV terminals. It provides an extra level of safety,
and is particularly useful if the solar charger is installed in a general access area.
For more information and to find the right MPPT WireBox for your solar charger see the MPPT WireBox product page:
•MPPT WireBox-MC4
•MPPT WireBox-Tr
Example of a solar charger with MPPT WireBox
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Page 10 Features

4. Installation
The DC (PV) input is not isolated from the battery circuit. Therefore the PV, battery and control circuit are
considered hazardous and should not be user accessible.
For proper temperature compensated battery charging the ambient temperature of the solar charger and the
battery must be within 5°C (9°F).
The battery and PV connections must be guarded against inadvertent contact. Install the solar charger in an
enclosure or install the optional WireBox [10].
4.1. Mounting
Mount the solar charger vertically on a non-flammable substrate, with the electrical terminals facing downwards.
The Dimension drawings [68] chapter of this manual contains the dimension drawing of the solar charger, this drawing also
indicates the mounting holes.
Observe a minimum clearance of 10cm under and above the solar charger for optimal cooling.
Mount the solar charger close to the battery, but never directly above the battery. This is to prevent damage due to gassing of the
battery.
Avoid ambient temperature differences of more than 5°C between the solar charger and the battery. These
temperature differences can lead to incorrect temperature compensated charging, which can reduce the
battery lifetime.
If large temperature differences or extreme ambient temperature conditions are expected, use a direct battery
temperature sense source like the Smart Battery Sense or a BMV or SmartShunt equipped with a temperature
sensor.
If the optional MPPT WireBox is used:
• For solar chargers with screw PV terminal use the MPPT WireBox TR.
• For solar chargers with MC4 PV terminals use the MPPT WireBox MC4.
• Affix the steel WireBox base to the solar charger before the solar charger is mounted into its final position.
• For full mounting instructions, see the MPPT WireBox TR or MPPT WireBox MC4 quick installation guide.
4.2. Battery
The battery supply must be protected by a fuse as per the below table.
Solar charger type Minimum battery fuse rating Maximum battery fuse rating
MPPT 150/60 and 250/60 70A 80A
MPPT 150/70 and 250/70 80A 100A
For Canada the battery fuse must comply with the C22.2 standards.
The battery installation must be done in accordance with the local storage battery rules. For Canada this is the
Canadian Electrical Code, Part I.
Use flexible multi stranded copper cable for the battery connections Also see chapter Wiring safety
precautions [1].
4.3. PV array
The solar charger can be used with a PV configuration that satisfies both these two conditions:
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• The maximum open circuit PV voltage can not exceed 150 or 250V, depending on the solar charger model.
• The nominal PV voltage should be at least 5V higher than the battery voltage.
The PV array can consist of mono- or poly-crystalline panels.
The solar panels are connected in series, in parallel or in series/parallel. See below figure for examples of these configurations.
120 W
12 V
120 W
12 V
240 W
24 V
10 A
120 W
12 V
120 W
12 V
240 W
12 V
20 A
480 W
24 V
20 A
120 W
12 V
120 W
12 V
120 W
12 V
120 W
12 V
Examples of series, parallel and series/parallel solar arrays.
To help calculate the size of the PV array configuration use the MPPT sizing calculator. Alternatively, use one of these PV array
configurations:
PV array example 24V battery with 150V solar charger:
• Minimum number of cells in series: 72 (2x 12V panel in series or 1x 24V panel).
• Recommended number of cells for highest controller efficiency: 144 cells (4x 12V panel or 2x 24V panel in series).
• Maximum: 216 cells (6x 12V or 3x 24V panel in series).
PV array example 48V battery with 150V solar charger:
• Minimum number of cells in series: 144 (4x 12V panel or 2x 24V panel in series).
• Maximum: 216 cells (6x 12V or 3x 24V panel in series).
PV array example 48V battery with 250V solar charger:
• Minimum number of cells in series: 144 (4x 12V panel or 2x 24V panel in series).
• Maximum: 360 cells (10x 12V or 5x 24 panel in series).
• Provide a means to disconnect all current-carrying conductors of a photo-voltaic power source from all other
conductors in a building or other structure.
• Careful: when calculating the number of panels that can be used in series, make sure to take both its Open
circuit voltage (Voc) and its Temperature coefficient into account. At ambient temperatures below 25°C, the
Voc will be higher.
• A switch, circuit breaker, or other device, either AC or DC, shall not be installed in a grounded conductor if
operation of that switch, circuit breaker, or other device leaves the grounded conductor in an un-grounded
state while the system remains energized.
• Do not use solar panels with optimizers. In worst case, the use of optimizers will cause irreparable damage
to the solar charger.
• Use flexible multi stranded copper cable for the screw connections (Tr model). See chapter Wiring safety
precautions [1].
• For MC4 models: several of the solar charger's MC4 pairs may be needed to parallel solar panel strings. Be
aware that the maximum current through a MC4 connection cannot exceed 30A.
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4.4. Grounding
Battery grounding
The solar charger can be installed in a positive or in a negative grounded system.
Apply a single ground connection, preferably close to the battery, to prevent system issues or ground loops.
PV array grounding
The positive and negative of the PV array should not be grounded.
Ground the frame of the PV panels to reduce the impact of lightning.
Do not connect the solar charger to a grounded PV array. Only one ground connection is allowed, and this should be near the
battery.
Ground fault detection
The solar charger does not have internal ground fault protection.
The USA National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the use of an external ground fault protection device (GFPD).
The system electrical negative should be bonded through a GFPD to earth ground at one (and only one) location.
When a ground fault is indicated, battery terminals and connected circuits may be un-grounded and
hazardous.
4.5. Connection overview
TR Model.
MC4 model.
ID Description
A Ground screw.
B Rotary switch.
C LEDs.
D VE.Direct socket.
E Battery screw terminals.
F PV screw terminals.
G Relay screw terminals.
H Remote on/off terminals.
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4.6. Electrical connections
WARNING: Check the polarity before connecting the battery and PV voltage.
WARNING: Follow the correct installation procedure described in this chapter.
IMPORTANT: Torque the battery and PV connections at 2.4Nm.
Connection order electrical connections:
1. Connect the battery: allow the solar charger to automatically recognise the system voltage (wait 10 seconds).
2. It is recommended to verify system voltage: use VictronConnect or an external control display.
3. Connect the PV.
4. Connect the applicable other connections: such as the remote on/off connector, the programmable relay connectoror the
VE.Direct port.
The correct connection order is necessary to allow the automatic system voltage detection to setup properly. It is only allowed to
connect PV first when the system voltage is manually set before connecting the battery. Not following the correct procedures can
disable or damage the charger and/or the installation.
See the below figure on how the basic electrical connections are made:
ID Description
A Solar charger, on the left the Tr model and on the right the MC4 model.
B Battery or battery bank, lead acid or lithium.
C Solar panel or solar panel array.
D DC loads.
DC fuse.
4.7. Install the optional SmartSolar Control display
To install the optional SmartSolar Control display follow these steps:
1. Remove the two screws of the plastic cover. Keep the screws, they are needed again when securing the display.
2. Remove the plastic cover. The display terminal is now exposed.
3. Remove the two plastic plugs on either side of the display plug.
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4. Remove the paper backing of the double sided tape on the back of the display.
5. Insert the display into the plug and make sure it has been inserted all the way in.
6. Screw the display down by using the two screws that were used for the plastic cover.
How and where to connect the SmartSolar Control display
For more information, see the SmartSolar Control display manual
The display is hot-swappable, this means that the display can be plugged in or removed while the solar
charger is operating.
4.8. Connect the MPPT Control display
Connect the (optional) MPPT Control display to the VE.Direct port of the solar charger using a VE.Direct cable.
The VE.Direct cable is available in a variety of lengths and is not included with the MPPT control display. Note that it is not
possible to extend the VE.Direct cable, the maximum length can not exceed 10 meters.
For more information, see the MPPT Control manual.
Connect the display to the solar charger via a VE.Direct cable
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5. Configuration and settings
The solar charger settings can be configured so it can be taylored specifically for the system it is used in.
Do not change solar charger settings unless you know what they are and what the effect of changing these
settings is going to be.
Incorrect settings may cause system problems including damage to batteries. When in doubt, seek advice
from an experienced Victron Energy installer, dealer or distributor.
5.1. How to change settings
There are several methods that can be used to change these settings. Some of these allow all settings to be configured, but
others might have limitations:
• The VictronConnect app - All settings can be changed and the firmware can be updated.
• The rotary switch - The charge algorithm for a number of pre-set battery types can be selected.
• The MPPT Control display (optional) - Most settings can be changed.
• The SmartSolar display (optional) - All settings can be changed
Do not change solar charger settings unless you know what they are and what the effect of changing these
settings can be. Incorrect settings may cause system problems including damage to batteries. When in doubt,
seek advice from an experienced Victron Energy installer, dealer or distributor.
5.1.1. Settings via the VictronConnect app
The VictronConnect app can be used to change all solar charger settings and can be used to update the firmware.
See the VictronConnect app [5] chapter for an overview of the different ways the VictronConnect app can connect to the solar
charger.
This manual only covers the VictronConnect app solar charger-specific items. For more general information on the
VictronConnect app, like how to use it or how to connect, see the VictronConnect manual.
To access the solar charger settings, navigate to the settings page. Do this by clicking on the cog icon at the top right of the
home screen.
The settings page provides access to view and/or to change the solar charger settings.
For information about each setting and how to update firmware see the Updating firmware [32] chapter.
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