Votronic MPP 170 CI User manual

Installation and Operating Manual
Solar Controller MPP 170 CI (12 V / 13 A / 170 Wp) No. 1712
Solar Controller MPP 260 CI (12 V / 18.5 A / 260 Wp) No. 1717
Solar Controller MPP 360 CI (12 V / 26 A / 360 Wp) No. 1722
Solar Controller MPP 440 CI (12 V / 32 A / 440 Wp) No. 1730
Please read this assembly and operating instructions completely, in particular, page 2
"Safety Regulations and Appropriate Application", before you begin the connection and start-up.
MPP Solar Controller for high-quality campers, caravans and boats.
VOTRONIC Solar Controllers of series "MPP" (Maximum-Power-Point) with characteristic line of charging "IU1oU2" are the
link between solar panel(s) and battery (batteries).
Controllers according to the MPP technology are continuously and automatically calculating the maximum power yield
(MPP) of the solar modules several times per minute. The voltage surplus of the solar module will be transformed to a
higher charging current for the battery (realised by high-frequency switching controller technology with high efficiency).
This surplus of charging current ensures short charging times and the best possible power yield of the solar system.
Working fully automatically and maintenance-free, the solar controllers MPP offer the following functions:
•Increased MPP charging current compared with conventional controllers, due to ultramodern controller technology
(microprocessor) by 10 % to 30 % (efficiency > 95 %). This enhanced capacity shows particularly in cooler times of the
year, such as in case of foggy weather conditions or gloomy diffuse light (winter break).
•Switchable characteristic lines of charging or optimum charging of lead- gel-/dryfit, AGM/fleece or acid/lead-acid
batteries, as well as LiFePO4 batteries (see table 1).
•The charging voltage being free from peaks is controlled in such a way, that any overcharging of the batteries is
excluded.
•Two Battery Charging Ports: Automatic charging of the main battery or leisure battery, as well as support charging
and trickle charging (max. 1 A) of the vehicle's starter battery with overcharge protection.
•Unattended Charging: Standard protection against overload, overheating, reverse battery and back discharge of the
battery (in case of insufficient solar power, such as at twilight, at night etc.).
•Parallel and Floating Operation: Observation of the characteristic lines of charging, even with simultaneous operation
of consumers.
•Overcharge protection: Reduction of the charging current of the battery in case of excessive solar power and full
battery. Immediate recharging in case of power consumption to ensure always the best possible charging state of the
battery.
•Characteristic Line of Charging "IU1oU2": A defined charging boost (U1) avoids harmful acid accumulation (lead) and
provides equalization charge to the individual battery cells (lead and lithium). After that, automatic trickle charging
(U2).
•Charging Cable Compensation: Automatic compensation of voltage losses on the charging cables.
•On-board Mains Suppression Filter: Unproblematic parallel operation with wind-driven and motor-driven generators,
mains supply chargers, dynamos etc.
•Measurement Output for EBL, electroblock possibly existing in the living area of the vehicle: Allows convenient
application of the (solar) current display being installed in the electroblock for supervision of the solar system.
•Terminal "AES" (only MPP 260 CI, MPP 360 CI and MPP 440 CI):
Automatic commutation of refrigerators with "AES"(Automatic Energy Selector, Electrolux/Dometic) from gas
operation to 12 V operation in case of excess solar power.
•Connection for Battery Temperature Sensor (Order No. 2001):
Lead batteries: In case of low outside temperatures, full charging of the weak battery is improved by automatic
adaptation of the charging voltage to the battery temperature, and in case of summery temperatures unnecessary
battery gassing and battery load will be avoided.
LiFePO4 Batteries: Battery protection in case of high temperatures and particularly in case of low temperatures.
Highly recommended, if the battery temperature might drop below 0 °C during operation.
•Ready for connection of the Votronic Solar Displays for optimum control of the system:
LCD Solar Computer S: The LCD display indicates the following values: Battery voltage, charging current,
charging capacity, stored capacity and energy (V, A, W, Ah, Wh), Order No.: 1250.

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Battery Lifetime and Efficiency:
•Keep the batteries cool, LiFePO4 preferably above 0 °C. Choose an appropriate location
for installation.
•Store only fully charged batteries and recharge them periodically!
•Open lead-acid batteries and batteries being "maintenance-free according to EN/DIN":
Check the acid level periodically!
•Recharge totally discharged lead batteries immediately!
•LiFePO4: Only use complete batteries with BMS and safety circuit.
Total discharge is absolutely to be avoided!
Safety Regulations and Appropriate Application:
The solar controller has been designed according to the valid safety regulations.
Appropriate application is restricted to:
1. Charging of lead-gel, lead-AGM, lead-acid or LiFePO4-complete-batteries (with integrated BMS,
equalization charging of the cells/balancing and approval!) of the indicated nominal voltage and
simultaneous supply of the consumers being connected to these batteries in fixed installed systems.
2. With solar panels up to the maximum power rating (Wp) of the used solar controller.
3. With solar panels below the max. admissible voltage (Voc).
4. The indicated cable cross-sections at the charging ports and at the panel input.
5. With fuses of the indicated capacity near the battery to protect the cabling between battery and
charging ports.
6. Technically faultless condition.
7. Installation in a well-ventilated room, protected from rain, humidity, dust, aggressive battery gases,
as well as in an environment being free from condensation water.
8. The device must not be operated on the input terminals "+/-solar panels" with wind, water, fuel or
motor generators, power supplies, batteries or other power sources!
•Never use the unit in locations where the risk of gas or dust explosion exists!
•Cables are always to be laid in such a way that damage is excluded. Observe to fasten them tightly.
•Always lead the connection cables from below to the solar controller to ensure that penetrating humidity
cannot reach the controller in case of failure, which might result in damage of the controller.
•Never lay 12 V (24 V) cables and 230 V mains supply cables into the same cable conduit (empty conduit).
•Check live cables or leads periodically for insulation faults, points of break or loosened connections.
Occurring defects must be remedied immediately.
•The unit is to be disconnected from any connection prior to execution of electrically welding or work on the
electric system.
•If the non-commercial end-user is not able to recognize the characteristic values being valid for a unit or the
regulations to be observed, a specialist is always to be consulted.
•The user/buyer is obliged to observe any construction and safety regulations.
•Except for the fuse, the unit is not equipped with parts, which can be replaced by the user.
Always use replacement car fuses of the indicated capacity!
•Keep children away from the solar controller and the batteries.
•Observe the safety regulations of the battery manufacturer.
•Deaerate the battery room. Protect the unit from aggressive battery gases.
•Ensure sufficient ventilation of unit and panel!
•Strictly observe the instructions of the manufacturer for installation of the solar panel.
•Non-observance may result in injury or material damage.
•The warranty period is 36 months from the purchase date (against presentation of the sales slip or invoice).
•The guarantee will be void in case of any inappropriate utilisation of the unit, if it is used beyond the
technical specification, in case of improper operation, intrusion of water or external intervention. We do
not assume any liability for any damage resulting hereof. The liability exclusion is extended to any service
being executed by third, which has not been ordered by us in writing. Service is to be effected exclusively by
VOTRONIC, Lauterbach.

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Connection
Plan:
Note:
The connection plan shows the maximum terminal assignment for operation of all existing functions of the solar
controller. The minimum terminal assignment consists of the solar panel inputs ("+" and "-") and the connections to
the main battery.
Always connect the fuses as close as possible to the batteries (cable protection!).
Cut-off Relay:
The cut-off relay, which exists in most of the vehicles, can, of course, still be used. (For charging by the
dynamo, the cut-off relay connects the board battery to the starter battery during running motor of the
vehicle. The cut-off relay is not included in the connection plan).
Required Cable Cross-Sections, Notes MPP 170 CI MPP 260 CI MPP 360 CI MPP 440 CI
+/- Panel cables, length as required:
2.5-4 mm2
4-6 mm2
6-10 mm2
6-10 mm2
+/-Battery cables, length max. 2 m:
2.5-4 mm2
4-6 mm2
6-10 mm2
6-10 mm2
Fuse close to main battery:
15 A
20 A
30 A
40 A

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Mounting:
Screw-down the solar controller on an even and hard mounting surface at locations being protected from humidity and
near the main/leisure battery to ensure that the length of the battery connection cable is as short as possible.
Vertical installation of the controller is highly recommendable (the terminals for solar panel and batteries point down).
This mode of installation improves cooling of the unit and avoids that water runs along the connection cables of the solar
panel into the solar controller, even in case of damaged seals.
If used, the cable to the starter battery (START) can be longer.
Despite the solar controller's high efficiency, heat is produced. Ensure sufficient ventilation in the environment of the unit,
so that the heat can be carried-off.
The unit might heat-up. Consequently, the vent holes of the casing should never be covered to ensure full charging capacity
(minimum distance all around: 10 cm).
Connection (See Connection Plan):
•Observe the cable cross-sections and cable lengths indicated in the connection plan and the tables!
•The correct polarities ( + and - ) of solar panel and batteries are absolutely to be observed!
•Cable protection: Insert the fuses near the batteries into the + cables (protection against cable fire)!
1.) Main/Leisure Battery (must be connected):
Connect the battery connections of the controller - (minus) and +(plus) to the 12 V main battery, observing the correct
polarity and the cross-section of the cables (refer to connection plan).
Never operate the controller without the main/leisure battery.If the battery is not connected, the unit will not deliver a
defined output voltage.
In case of wrong polarity of the battery, the internal safety fuse will be released. The replacement fuse should have the
same capacity, and it should be of the same type (car fuse)!
Parallel charging of two or several batteries of the same voltage (12 V) is admissible. The batteries are to be "paralleled",
i.e. the "+"connections of the batteries have to be coupled and should be connected to the "+"connection of the solar
controller. The minus (-) connections have to be coupled in the same way.
According to the battery manufacturers, permanent parallel operation in cross connection is admissible in case of two or
several batteries of the same voltage, same type, same capacity, as well as of the same age (history).
2.) "Solar Panels" (must be connected):
Shade the panels to minimize sparking during connection and to avoid damages due to eventual reverse battery (hall).
Observe the cable cross-sections (refer to connection plan)!
If several small solar panels are used, they are connected in parallel. Partial shading of the panels or of parts of the panels
(leaves, branches, dirt etc.) results in average higher solar power (see connection plan).
The (-) minus connection of the solar panel must exclusively be connected to the (-) minus terminal of the
solar controller!
Any further connection (possibly from the connection of a former solar controller, damaged insulation at the
roof cable duct etc.) to the battery minus (-) or to the vehicle (-) chassis might falsify the internal current
metering of the unit and is not admissible.
3.) Starter Battery "START" (Option, can be connected):
Connect the second charging port to the vehicle's starter battery using the red connection cable (wire cross-section 1.5-2.5
mm². This cable may be longer. In case of non-utilization, this terminal is left free.
If used, the output for the vehicle's starter battery will be working with reduced voltage and charging current rates. Thus,
the valuable solar power will be supplied to board/leisure battery being more suitable.
However, the vehicle's starter battery will be kept in a condition, that starting will always be possible, even in case of longer
stop periods (such as in winter).
Usually, the minus poles of the starter battery and of the main/leisure battery had already been connected by
the customer. If not, this connection must be made for charging of the starter battery.

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4.) Plug-type Connection "Solar Display"(Option, can be connected):
6-pole tip jack for connection of the plug-and-go Votronic Solar Displays for optimum control of the solar system:
LCD Solar Computer S: The LCD display indicates the following values: Battery voltage, charging current, charging
capacity, stored capacity and energy (V, A, W, Ah, Wh). Order No.: 1250.
5.) "CI-Bus" connection (option, can be connected):
Connection to a CI-BUS on-board management system for displaying all relevant data on a central vehicle display.
The solar controller must be integrated into the CI-BUS on-board management system by the vehicle manufacturer,
expansion partner or a system integrator!
6.) "EBL" Connection for Electroblock with Display Panel DT… / LT... (Option, can be connected):
A cable set for connection of the solar controller to the EBL is required. Order No.: 2007 (It is not included in the standard
delivery scope of the controller).
The solar controller supplies a signal at the terminal "EBL" for display of the solar charging current, which is suitable for
electroblock EBL… with DT…/LT… display panel.
The signal cable being required for that, as well as a connection cable for connection of the solar controller to the EBL are
included in the set of EBL connection cables. Cable Length: 1 m, each:
7.) "AES" (Automatic Energy Selector) only MPP 260 CI, MPP 360 CI, MPP 440 CI
(Option, can be connected):
The delivery scope of Dometic / Electrolux and of other companies includes "AES" refrigerators with all-automatic energy
selection (230 V AC, 12 V DC or gas).
Particularly in summer, a lot of excess energy might be produced due to strong solar radiation, full batteries and low energy
consumption, which is left unused. The solar controller recognizes this condition and uses the "AES" output to give a signal
to the refrigerator, which will switch from gas operation to 12 V operation to benefit from the excess energy (gas saving).
Connection:
Lead a single-pole cable (0.5-1.5 mm²) from the solar controller's terminal "AES" to the refrigerator's terminal "T10" or
"S+".
Function:
The solar controller recognizes the excess capacity (LED "AES" is lighting). Then, the refrigerator switches from gas
operation to 12 V operation. This mode will be kept for at least half an hour to avoid that the refrigerator will be "swinging"
between 12 V operation and gas operation.
Should the solar power be still sufficient, the 12 V operation of the refrigerator will be kept.
Should the solar power be insufficient, "AES" will be switched-off by the solar controller, the refrigerator will be switched to
gas operation, it will keep this mode for at least half an hour, and the solar power will be used for recharge of the (possibly
slightly discharged) battery. This mode of operation can only be taken into account in case of sufficient efficiency of the
solar panel and under favourable conditions, such as 110 Wp, better from 150 Wp or more.
Optionally:
Optionally, small 12 V consumers can be operated at the AES output, such as 12 V fans, car relays or refrigerators with
control input D+ (Thetford etc.).
For these applications, it must be observed, that the output must be active for at least half an hour.
The output current of the terminal "AES" is 12 V, max. 0.2 A. In case of larger consumers, the output is limited
and can again be loaded after a cooling down phase.
Supply of larger consumers requires interconnection of a load relay.
8.) Input Battery Temperature Sensor (Option, can be connected):
Connection for the external Votronic Temperature Sensor 825, order No. 2001 (is not included in the standard delivery
scope).
•Measurement of the battery temperature of the main/leisure battery for battery protection and battery control.
•Connect the sensor to the terminals "TS - TS" (any polarity).
•Ensure that the installation place of the sensor is not influenced by any source of heat (engine block, exhaust, heater
etc.)!
Lead-Acid, Gel, AGM Batteries:
Installation: The thermal contact of sensor and battery inside temperature should be well. Thus, it should be screwed
down to the negative pole or positive pole of the battery. It is also possible to fasten it at the sidewall centre of the battery
casing.

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Effect: The temperature-dependent charging voltage of the battery will be adapted automatically to the battery
temperature (automatic temperature equalization). The temperature sensor measures the battery temperature. In case of
low temperatures (winter operation), the charging voltage will be increased, in order to improve and accelerate full
charging of the weak battery. Sensitive consumers are protected by a limitation of the voltage in case of very low outside
temperatures.
In case of summery temperatures, the charging voltage is reduced to minimize the load (gassing) of the battery and to
extend the lifetime of gas-tight batteries.
Battery Protection: In case of excessive battery temperatures (from +50 °C), the charging voltage will be reduced strongly
to safety charging voltage, approx. 12.80 V, for battery protection and the maximum charging current rate will be halved
and safety mode, LED "MPP" is flashing ("Charge" at MPP 170 CI). Any charging data being recorded hitherto will be kept
in memory.
Battery charging is then interrupted, but the supply of consumers being possibly connected will be continued by the solar
controller, and the battery is allowed to cool down. After that, automatic charging will be resumed. Also refer to "Charging
Voltage Rates and Temperature Equalization, as well as Protection of Main Battery" on page 10.
LiFePO4 Batteries:
Installation: The thermal contact of sensor and inside temperature of the battery should be well. Thus, it should be
screwed down to the negative pole of the battery, because in case of LiFePO4 batteries, in most of the cases, this is the
cooler side (the positive pole is often falsified with the exhaust heat of internal fuses, electronic systems for cell
equalization etc.)
Effect: In case of abnormal battery temperatures, such as <-20 °C, >50 °C, the charging voltage will be reduced strongly to
safety charging voltage, approx. 12.80 V, for battery protection, and the maximum charging current rate will be halved.
Safety mode, LED "MPP" is flashing ("Charge" at MPP 170 CI). Any charging data being recorded hitherto will be kept in
memory.
Battery charging is then interrupted, but the supply of consumers being possibly connected will be continued by the solar
controller until the battery temperature is in the admissible range. After that, automatic charging will be resumed.
Below 0 °C, the charging current will be reduced very strongly for battery protection, and longer charging times can be
expected.
The solar controller recognizes automatically a missing sensor, cable break or short-circuit of the sensor lines, as
well as unreasonable measuring values. In that case, it will switch automatically to the usual charging voltage
rates of 20 °C / 25 °C being recommended by the battery manufacturers.
Pilot Lamps:
"Float":
•Is lighting: Trickle charging U2. Voltage control, charging voltage is gradually reduced to the U2
voltage.
•Is flashing:Temperature sensor is not connected for LiFePO4 characteristic. No charging possible!
"Absorb":
•Is lighting: U1 phase (full charge). Voltage control, current consumption of the battery decreases
continuously.
•Is flashing: Battery over- or undertemperature. Check battery and temperature sensor if necessary!
"Bulk":
•Is lighting: I-phase (main charge). Current control, battery is charged with the maximum available
solar power. The MPP algorithm always searches for the optimal power point of the
solar module.
•Is flashing: Battery and/or solar module overvoltage. Check battery and solar module!
"Batt. Low":
•Is lighting: Battery undervoltage (PB < 10 V, LiFePO4 < 11 V). If possible, do not load the battery and
recharge it as soon as possible.
•Is flashing: Lithium battery below 0°C or solar regulator is internally too warm (reduced charge
current).
•Short flashing every 2 sec.: Solar controller (MPP260 CI-MPP440 CI) is in standby mode (night or solar power too
low).
"AES" (except MPP 170 CI):
•Is lighting: Sufficient excess solar power is available, the output "AES" for automatic energy
selection of the refrigerator or of a relay control is activated.
•Off: Output "AES" is switched-off.

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"Standby" (only MPP 170 CI):
•Short flashing every 2 sec.: Display of readiness for service in case of missing solar power (at night).
All light-emitting diodes are flashing simultaneously:
The positions of the selector switches for the main/leisure battery are incorrect. For reasons of safety, the solar
controller is switched-off. Adjust the desired battery type according to table 1.
Operating Instructions:
•Lifetime of the battery:
•Recharge totally discharged batteries immediately:
Incipient Sulphation of the lead battery plates due to total discharge is to be prevented by soon charging,
particularly in case of high ambient temperatures. If the grade of sulphation is not too intensive, the battery can
recover part of the battery capacity after several charging/discharging cycles.
Total discharge of LiFePO4 batteries is absolutely to be avoided!
•Partially discharged batteries:
In contrast to other battery types, batteries on lead and LiFePO4 basis do not have any harmful memory effect.
Consequently: In case of doubt, partially discharged batteries have to be charged fully as soon as possible.
Always store only fully charged lead batteries. Recharge them periodically, particularly in case of used (older)
batteries and higher temperatures.
•Keep the batteries cool and dry, LiFePO4 batteries preferably above 0 °C. Choose an appropriate location for
installation.
•In case of insufficient solar power and/or high current consumption, the lead battery should be subject to
occasional full charging by means of a mains supply charger.
•Overvoltage Protection:
The 12 V solar controllers protect themselves against connection of excessive battery voltage rates or will be
switched-off in case of defective additional charging systems (chargers, generators or similar systems), switching
threshold 15.0-16.0 V, depending on the battery type.
•Overvoltage Limitation:
Sensitive consumers are protected by means of a limitation of the charging voltage to max. 15.0 V during all modes
of charging.
•Overload/Overheating Protection Solar Controller:
The solar controller is equipped with a double electronic protection against overload and with an automatic
protection against adverse installation conditions (e.g. insufficient ventilation, excessive ambient temperatures) by
gradual reduction of the charging capacity.
•Voltage Measurement: The voltage rates at the solar controller might by falsified by losses at the charging cables.
Never use the controller without battery.
•Operation with switched off LiFePO4 main battery:
•In case the battery is disconnected from the solar charging controller by the (prescribed) BMS, the latter will,
as long as the solar power is adequate, provide the set voltage at its output terminals according to the
characteristic line of charging. Consumer units continue to be supplied by the solar charging controller as long
as they have not been separately disconnected from the BMS and the solar power is adequate.
•Whether a battery disconnected by the BMS will switch back on by itself and can therefore continue to be
automatically charged by the solar charging controller depends on the type of battery and its BMS.
•The charge of the starter battery continues to be retained if there is sufficient solar power.
In case of unattended operation, the battery might be totally discharged due to too many consumers and lack
of solar power. We recommend an (undervoltage) protection for the battery by means of the following
appliances:
Votronic Battery Protector 40 (Power rating 12 V / 40 A) Order No. 3075 or
Votronic Battery Protector 100 (Power rating 12 V / 100 A) Order No. 3078

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Table 1: For Main Battery I: How to set the correct charging program for the battery
type (design, lead or lithium-iron phosphate technology)
Prior to start-up, imperatively set the correct characteristic line of charging being suitable for the
battery to avoid battery damages!
Set the slide switch ("BOARD Battery") to the desired position for battery I (board battery) using a small
screwdriver. Either select Lead Battery or Lithium LiFePO4 Battery using switch "1".
After that, select the desired characteristic line of charging using the switches "2", "3" and "4", as indicated in the tables:
Charging programs for lead-batteries:
If not being specified divergently by the battery manufacturer, the suitable charging program for the battery
type (design, technology) can be determined by means of the following description and the technical data
(voltage rates U1 and U2, nominal temperature and dwell times U1).
Note: The possible parallel/floating operation with consumers being connected to the battery is also
automatically considered by all charging programs.
a) "Lead Acid/AGM1": Charging program for acid/lead-acid batteries as well as AGM 14.4 V:
For charging and trickle charge of supply (board) batteries. Ensures short charging times, high
charging factor and acid mixing for open standard batteries and closed, low-maintenance,
maintenance-free "non-solid electrolyte", "lead-acid", drive, lighting, solar and heavy duty batteries.
Also suitable for recently developed batteries (low-antimonous, batteries with silver-alloy,
calcium/calcium or similar) and batteries with low and very low water consumption, as well as
AGM batteries with the indication 14.4 V.
Characteristic line of charging IU1oU2 Acid/AGM:
U1 Main/Full Charging: 14.40 V +20 °C 1.5-5 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.50 V +20 °C Continuous
Safety mode at excess temperature of the battery: 12.80 V > +50 °C
b) "AGM2": Charging program for AGM/Fleece batteries 14.7 V:
Adapted to closed, gas-tight AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries and batteries in lead-fleece
technology, Lead Crystal, VRLA, requiring a particularly high level U1 for full charging.
ATTENTION: It is highly recommended to check the specification sheet of the battery concerning the
high charging voltage U1 14.7 V.
Unsuitable batteries might age prematurely due to loss of electrolyte!
Some manufacturers of AGM/fleece batteries are also prescribing a 14.4 V charging program for
charging! In these cases, please set "Lead Acid/AGM1" (14.4 V / 13.45 V).
Characteristic Line AGM/Fleece IU1oU2:
U1 Main/Full Charging: 14.70 V (!) +20 °C 1.5-5 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.50 V +20 °C Continuous
Safety mode at excess temperature of the battery: 12.80 V > +50 °C
c) "Gel": Charging program for gel/dryfit batteries:
Adapted to closed, gas-tight Gel batteries with determined electrolytes, which are generally requiring
a higher charging voltage level and longer dwell times U1 to achieve short charging times with
particularly high capacity storage and to avoid total discharge, e. g. EXIDE, Sonnenschein dryfit- Start,
Dryfit-Sport-Line, DETA Gel Battery Funline, Bosch AS Gel Batteries Va/Z, AS Gel Drive Batteries, AS Gel
lighting batteries.
If not being specified divergently by the battery manufacturer, also recommended for
batteries in round cell technology.
EXIDE, DETA, VARTA Characteristic Line Gel IU1oU2:
U1 Main/Full Charging: 14.40 V +20 °C 6-12 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.80 V +20 °C Continuous
Safety mode at excess temperature of the battery: 12.80 V > +50 °C

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Charging Programs for LiFePO4-Batteries:
•The charging regulations of the battery manufacturer
are absolutely to be observed!
•An operation of the unit at a LiFePO4 battery without BMS Battery Management System and without
equalization charging of the cells (balancing) as well as safety circuit is not admissible!
•A battery temperature sensor must be installed at the battery (screw to the negative pole) and
connected at the unit. It serves as protection for the battery!
•If possible, the battery temperature must be kept above 0 °C.
Note: The possible parallel/floating operation with consumers being connected to the battery is also
automatically considered by all charging programs.
d) "LiFePO4 13.9 V": Charging program IU1oU2
U1 Main/Full Charging: 13.90 V 0.5-1 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.90 V Continuous
e) "LiFePO4 14.2 V": Charging program IU1oU2
U1 Main/Full Charging: 14.20 V 0.5-1 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.60 V Continuous
f) "LiFePO4 14.4 V": Charging program IU1oU2
U1 Main/Full Charging: 14.40 V 0.3-1 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.80 V Continuous
g) "LiFePO4 14.6 V": Charging program IU1oU2
U1 Main/Full Charging: 14.60 V 0.3-1 h
U2 Full/Trickle/Storage Charging: 13.60 V Continuous
h) "LiFePO4 13.2 V": Hibernation characteristic matched to all common LiFePO4 batteries.
Battery is kept at approx. 50 - 80%.
Holding voltage: 13.20 V Continuous
4. Slide Switches (CI-Bus adress switching):
The fourth slide switch is required for parallel operation of several CI-BUS solar controllers
on one CI-BUS line. The setting is made by the system integrator and has no significance
for operation without CI-BUS connection.
4. slide switch leave standard on "OFF" (bottom, see figure on the left)!
Further actions at the unit are not required during normal automatic mode.
Declaration of Conformity:
In accordance with the provisions of the statutory requirements and the relevant directives, Electrical
Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016, The Restriction of
the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012 this
product complies with the following standards or normative documents:
BS EN55014-1; BS EN61000-6-1; BS EN61000-4-2; BS EN61000-4-3; BS EN61000-4-4; BS EN62368-1;
BS EN50498, BS EN IEC 63000.

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Charging Voltage Rates and Temperature Compensation of Main/Leisure Battery:
TS = With Temperature Sensor (Terminals „TS TS“). Mandatory for LiFePO4 batteries!
a) Lead "Lead Acid/AGM1", IU1oU2
b) Lead "AGM2", IU1oU2
c)
Lead "GEL", IU1oU2
d) LiFePO4 13,9 V:
e)
LiFePO4 14,2 V:
f)
LiFePO4 14,4 V:
g)
LiFePO4 14,6 V:
h)
LiFePO4 13,2 V: especially for trickle charge or winter
storage of LiFePO4 batteries!

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Functions at the Main/Leisure Battery "12 V":
If solar power is missing (at night), the readiness for service of the controller will be indicated by short flashing of the LED
(light-emitting diode) "Batt. Low".
As soon as sufficient solar power is available, a lighting LED "Bulk"indicates proper control functions of the solar controller.
This always ensures the most favorable operating point for the interaction between solar panels, wiring and the battery.
1. Gentle pre-charge of deep discharged batteries up to 10 V (11 V for LiFePO4) (with max. 50% solar regulator power).
2. Maximum charging current (Bulk/I-Phase) in the lower and middle voltage range of the battery until the beginning of
the U1 phase (Absorb). MPP control active.
3. The solar controller monitors the charging time and charging current and then automatically switches to the following
U1 phase (Absorb).
4. During the following U1 phase (Absorb), the battery voltage is kept constant at a high level, the battery determines the
charging current itself based on its state of charge and the high battery capacity is charged, the "Bulk" and "Absorb"
LEDs light up. An already full battery is briefly held in the U1 phase, a (partially) discharged battery for full and cell
equalization charging (maintenance) correspondingly longer.
5. During the U2 phase (Float), the battery is kept at its charge level. Only the compensating recharging current
determined by the battery flows to keep it fully charged. This phase is not limited in time, the LEDs "Bulk", "Absorb"
and "Absorb"light up. In contrast to conventional controllers, the MPP control ensures lower panel loads and
temperatures, especially here. Additional consumers can be better supplied and the solar power is now almost
completely available to the consumers.
A switch back to the bulk phase or absorb phase takes place if the battery has been loaded for a longer period of time or if
the solar controller switches back to standby mode after sunset.
When using a temperature sensor for the lead-acid battery, the voltage values for temperature compensation
automatically shift slightly up for cold or down for warm.
For LiFePO4 batteries, this results in valuable battery protection, especially below 0°C.
Charging Process (Characteristic Line of Charging IU1oU2) at the Main/Leisure Battery "12 V":

- 12 -
Technical Data:
MPP 170 CI
MPP 260 CI
MPP 360 CI
MPP 440 CI
Capacity Solar Module (recommended min. to max.): 40 - 170 Wp 50 - 260 Wp 50 - 360 Wp 50 - 440 Wp
Current Solar Module, 0 to maximum: 0 - 10 A 0 - 15.0 A 0 - 21.0 A 0 - 26.0 A
Voltage Solar Module, max. Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): max. 60 V max. 60 V max. 60 V max. 60 V
Protection against Back Discharge (Night Operation): Yes Yes Yes Yes
Main Port Main/Leisure Battery (12 V):
Charging/Floating/Load Current: 0 - 13 A 0 - 18.5 A 0 - 26 A 0 - 32 A
Max. Prelim. Charg. Current (Totally Discharged Battery): 6.5 A (<10 V) 9.7 A (<10 V) 13 A (<10 V) 16 A (<10 V)
Nominal Voltage Battery Lead-Acid, Gel, AGM:12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V
Recom. min. Battery Capacity (max. acc. to application): > 40 Ah > 60 Ah > 80 Ah > 100 Ah
Nominal Voltage Battery LiFePO4:12.0 - 13.3 V 12.0 - 13.3 V 12.0 - 13.3 V 12.0 - 13.3 V
Recom. min. Battery Capacity (max. acc. to application): > 30 Ah > 45 Ah > 70 Ah > 90 Ah
Charging Programs for Gel/AGM/Acid/LiFePO4 Batteries: 8888
Charging Voltage Limitation (max.): 15.0 V 15.0 V 15.0 V 15.0 V
Installed, Limitation of Charging Current /Overload Protection: Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes
Installed, Overtemperature/Short-circuit Protection: Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes
Installed, Cooling Fan with Temp. Control: -- Yes Yes Yes
Current Consumption Stand-by 4 mA 4 mA 4 mA 4 mA
Unit Fuse (Type FKS): 15 A 20 A 30 A 40 A
Input for Battery I Temperature Sensor: Yes Yes Yes Yes
Plug-and-go Connect. For Displays, such as LCD Solar Comput. S: Yes Yes Yes Yes
Signal Output for "EBL" Display "Solar Charging Current":Yes Yes Yes Yes
Control Output "AES" Refrigerator, max. Rating: -- 12 V / 0.2 A 12 V / 0.2 A 12 V / 0.2 A
Auxiliary Port Vehicle Starter (Lead) Battery (Start):
Nominal Voltage/Charging Current: 12V / 0 - 1.0 A 12V / 0 - 1.0 A 12V / 0 - 1.0 A 12V / 0 - 1.0 A
Installed, Limitation of Charging Current / Overload Protection: Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes
Installed, Overtemperature / Short-circuit Protection: Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes
Dimensions, incl. Mounting Flanges (mm): 131 x 77 x 40 131 x 77 x 40 131 x 77 x 40 131 x 77 x 40
Weight: 225 g 235 g 285 g 285 g
Ambient Temperature Range, Humidity of Air: -20 to +45°C, max. 95 % r. H., no condensation
Declaration of Conformity:
In accordance with the provisions of Directives 2014/35/EU, 2014/30/EU, 2009/19/EC, this
product complies with the following standards or normative documents:
EN55014-1; EN55022 B; EN61000-6-1; EN61000-4-2; EN61000-4-3; EN61000-4-4;
EN62368-1; EN50498.
The product
must not be
disposed of in
the household
waste.
The product is RoHS compliant.
It complies with the directive
2015/863/EU for Reduction of
Hazardous Substances in electrical
and electronic equipment.
Recycling:
At the end of its useful life, you can send us this device for professional disposal:
You can find more information about this on our website at www.votronic.de/recycling
Delivery Scope: Available Accessories:
•MPP Solar Controller
•Operating Manual
-Temperature Sensor 825
-LCD Solar Computer S
-Cable set for connection of the solar controller
to EBL
Order No. 2001
Order No. 1250
Order No. 2007
Subject to misprints, errors and technical modification without notice.
All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or part without the
express written consent of the manufacturer. Copyright VOTRONIC 02/2023.
Made in Germany by VOTRONIC Elektronik-Systeme GmbH, Johann-Friedrich-Diehm-Str. 2, 36341 Lauterbach/GERMANY
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] E-Mail: [e-mail] Internet: www.votronic.de