WINDY NATION CHC-LCD-30FM User manual

P30LF User Manual
Revision 1.0
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windynation
01/10/2018
30A Flush Mount LCD PWM Solar Charge Controller
CHC-LCD-30FM
User’s Manual

P30LF User Manual
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Table of Contents
1Introduction...................................................................................................................................................3
1.1 Features..............................................................................................................................................3
1.2 Safety Information...............................................................................................................................3
1.3 Specifications......................................................................................................................................3
1.3.1 Electrical Specifications..................................................................................................................3
1.3.2 Physical Specifications ...................................................................................................................4
2Installation ....................................................................................................................................................4
2.1 Electrostatic (ESD) Precautions .........................................................................................................4
2.2 Mounting.............................................................................................................................................4
2.3 Connections........................................................................................................................................5
2.4 Parallel Connections...........................................................................................................................7
3Operation......................................................................................................................................................7
3.1 Button Definitions................................................................................................................................8
3.2 LCD Display........................................................................................................................................8
3.3 LCD Menu Interface Cycle..................................................................................................................9
3.4 Menu Interface Definitions..................................................................................................................9
3.4.1 Battery Type Setting .......................................................................................................................9
3.4.2 Boost Charge Setting......................................................................................................................9
3.4.3 Equalization Charge Setting ...........................................................................................................9
3.4.4 Float Charge Setting.....................................................................................................................10
3.4.5 Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) Setting.........................................................................................10
3.4.6 Low Voltage Reconnect (LVR) Setting.........................................................................................10
3.4.7 Load Timed Control Setting..........................................................................................................10
3.4.8 RESET Default Setting .................................................................................................................11
3.5 Protection Features ..........................................................................................................................11
3.5.1 Electronic Short Circuit Safety......................................................................................................12
3.5.2 Internal Safety Fuses....................................................................................................................12
3.5.3 Safety Per Terminal......................................................................................................................12
3.5.4 Low Voltage Protection.................................................................................................................12
3.5.5 Overload Protection......................................................................................................................12
3.6 Error Conditions................................................................................................................................12
4Application..................................................................................................................................................13
4.1 Wire Gauge Reference.....................................................................................................................13
4.1.1 Wire Thickness .............................................................................................................................13
5Troubleshooting And Support.....................................................................................................................13
5.1 Maintenance & Care.........................................................................................................................13
5.2 Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................13
5.3 Support .............................................................................................................................................14
5.4 Warranty ...........................................................................................................................................14
5.4.1 Restrictions...................................................................................................................................14
5.4.2 Warranty Claims & Return Procedures.........................................................................................14
5.4.3 Disclaimer .....................................................................................................................................15
5.4.4 Limitation of Liability......................................................................................................................15
6Mounting Template.....................................................................................................................................16

P30LF User Manual
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1 INTRODUCTION
The WindyNation 30FM Flush Mount Solar Charge Controller provides an intelligent multifunctional charging
and power management solution for the solar charging of 12 and 24 volt battery systems. Operation is
conveniently presented and parameters are controlled via a customized LCD display screen interface.
The controller features an automatic 12V or 24V DC auto-detect function that will identify the battery voltage
upon initial battery connection and uses Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) allowing for a highly efficient and
battery-friendly charge control. An external temperature sensor provides software controlled charge
compensation that accurately adjusts the over-discharge and over-charge voltages to maximize your
batteries’ life.
Built in protection includes overload, short circuit, reverse polarity, lightning/surge, PV panel reverse current,
over charging, and discharging protection. In the event of a short circuit or overload event, the system will be
protected and remain undamaged.
The enclosure is designed to be flush mounted into a cut-out of the wall of an RV, boat, or any indoor
structure leaving the wires out of sight and providing an aesthetically appealing look. The front panel will
remain accessible with visual LCD graphic symbols to provide status indications of charge, battery status,
and system faults.
Read this manual carefully before installing or using the controller and keep it for future reference.
1.1 FEATURES
✓Visual LCD display
✓Intelligent 4-Stage PWM Charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization)
✓Automatic battery charging temperature compensation
✓User settable charging parameters offering full control to user
✓User settable working mode of load connection
✓User selectable battery type
✓Accumulative function of charging & discharging AH
✓Protection for battery bank discharging
✓Protection for battery low voltage
✓Battery reverse polarity protection
✓Delayed auto restart after overloading protection
✓Negative Ground
✓Rear mounted screw terminals for clean wiring
✓Built-in overload and short circuit protection
✓Wide operating temperature range -10˚C to +60˚C (14˚F to +140˚F)
1.2 SAFETY INFORMATION
Please read the installation and operating instructions carefully prior to use. Pay special attention to the
IMPORTANT and WARNING statements in the manual.
WARNING:
Solar panels produce power when exposed to light. Shade solar panels whenever solar panel wires are
exposed.
Do not use with equipment that exceeds the rated power for this device.
1.3 SPECIFICATIONS
1.3.1 Electrical Specifications
Parameter
P30LF
Rated Charge Current
30 Amps
Rated Load Current
30 Amps
Typical Idle Consumption
At idle < 5mA
Maximum Solar Input Voltage
55V DC
Rated Working Voltage
12V DC or 24V DC (auto-detect)

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Boost Charging Voltage
(adjustable)
14.0V-15.0V DC / 28.0V-30.0V DC
Default: 14.5V
Float Charging Voltage
(adjustable)
13.0V-13.8V DC / 26.0V-27.6V DC
Default: 13.7V
Equalization Charging Voltage
(adjustable)
14.0V-15.5V DC / 28.0V-31.0V DC
Default: 15.0V
Low Voltage Protection
(adjustable)
11.0V-12.5V DC / 22.0V-25.0V DC
Default: 11.1V
Low Voltage Recovery
(adjustable)
11.8V-13.3V DC / 23.6V-26.6V DC
Default: 12.6V
No Load Loss
<15mA
Loop Voltage Drop
<170mV
Temperature Compensation
-3.33 mV/Cell/C (Float); -4.17 mV/Cell/C (Boost, Equal)
1.3.2 Physical Specifications
Parameter
Value
Dimension (H x W x D)
4.56” (116mm) x 6.63” (168mm) x 1.33” (34mm)
Unit Weight
9.5 oz. (270g)
Operating Temperature
14oF to 140oF (-10oC to 60oC)
Operating Humidity
<90% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Wire Size
Up to 25mm2(6AWG)
Case Protection Rating
IP32
2 INSTALLATION
➢Insure all terminating connections are clean and tight to prevent arcing and overheating.
➢The controller must be installed in an area that satisfies all of the following conditions:
1. Dry: Avoid any location where water can contact the controller
2. Cool: Ambient air temperature between 30°F and 105°F (0°C and 40°C)
3. Ventilated: Allow at least 4 in (10 cm) of clearance above and below and at least 1 in (25 mm) on
each side for proper air flow.
2.1 ELECTROSTATIC (ESD) PRECAUTIONS
All electronic circuits may be damaged by static electricity. To minimize the likelihood of electrostatic
damage, discharge yourself by touching an electrical ground (e.g.: copper pipe) prior to handling the unit and
avoid touching components on the circuit boards. The risk of electrostatic damage is highest when relative
humidity is below 40%.
2.2 MOUNTING
The P30LF is designed to be flush mounted in the required cut-out of a flat surface (eg wall), where the wire
connections will be made from the back side of the controller and out of visible sight. If the back side of the
controller is not accessible when mounted, it is important to make all the connections prior to securing the
controller to the wall
1. Select Mounting Location
•Dry, well ventilated, and away from any heat sources.
•Suitable to run the necessary wire connections
oFrom solar panel(s)
oTo battery
oTo any loads that will be connected through the controller.
•No more than 1.25” thick and able to be cut out
•At least 3” clearance from the front of the surface for wire connections
2. Cut rectangular hole for controller using template locations in Section 6
3. Drill four pilot holes using the template from Section 6
•The drill hole size will depend on the fastener being used
IMPORTANT: If the wires are not accessible from the rear of the mounting surface, you will need to make
the connections in Section 2.3 prior to mounting the controller.
4. Place the controller into the cut-out made in step 2

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5. Install four user-supplied fasteners through the four mounting holes in the controller and into the
mounting surface.
6. Tighten all the fasteners to ensure the controller cannot slide in any direction.
IMPORTANT: For best results, mount the charge controller and batteries as close to the panels as practical.
2.3 CONNECTIONS
WARNING: Loose connectors result in excessive voltage drop and may over heat wires, which can cause
the wire insulation to melt. This can cause electrical fires. Verify all connections are secure and have no
voltage drop.
IMPORTANT: The NEC requires that the wires carrying the system current never exceed 80% of the
conductor’s current rating (sizing recommendations are located in Section 4).
IMPORTANT: The screw-down terminals on the charge controller accept 6~26AWG wire.
IMPORTANT: Strip the wire ends approximately 0.3” (7.6mm) before connecting to the charge controller.
Use caution when handling the stripped wires to avoid electric shock.
1) Connect the Battery
Connect the charge controller to the battery BEFORE connecting the solar panels to the charge controller.
Insert the battery wiring into the BATTERY terminals on the back of the charge controller and tighten the
terminals from the top of the terminal block using a screwdriver to ensure a good connection is made. Be
sure to note the polarity of each terminal; the charge controller self-protection feature will prevent damage
from reverse polarity connections, but the charge controller will not function until the battery is connected
properly.
A 30-amp fuse is recommended in the positive wire connecting the charge controller to the battery; See
Section 3.5 for a complete fusing diagram.
2) Connect the Solar Panel (PV) Array
Insert the solar panel wiring to the SOLAR terminals on the back of the charge controller and tighten the
terminals from the top of the terminal block using a screwdriver to ensure a good connection is made. Be
sure to note the polarity of each terminal; the charge controller self-protection feature will prevent damage
from reverse polarity connections, but the charge controller will not function until the PV Array is connected
properly.

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A 30 amp MC4 in-line fuse is recommended in the positive wire connecting the charge controller to the solar
panel(s); See Section 3.5 for a complete fusing diagram.
WARNING: High voltages may be present on the solar panel output wiring. Solar panels produce electricity
when exposed to light. Make sure the solar panels are placed in the shade and are NOT in direct sunlight.
Use caution and avoid touching any conductors in the system circuit to avoid electric shock.
3) Connect the Load (Optional)
This step is optional and only required if you want to power a small (less than 30A) DC load through the
charge controller. Connect the wires from the appliance to the LOAD terminals on the back of the charge
controller and tighten the terminals from the top of the terminal block using a screwdriver to ensure a good
connection is made. Be sure to note the polarity of each terminal; the charge controller self-protection feature
will prevent damage from reverse polarity connections, but the load will not function until the load is
connected properly.
A 30-amp fuse needs to be placed in the positive wire connecting the charge controller to the load; See
Section 3.5 for a complete fusing diagram.
4) Connect the Battery Temperature Sensor –BTS (Optional)
The charge voltage required by batteries changes with battery temperature. Temperature compensation of
the charge voltage enhances battery performance and life, and decreases battery maintenance. Automatic
temperature compensation can be provided through use of the optional battery temperature sensor
(included). The Temperature compensation is -3.33 mV/Cell/oC.
1) Plug the provided BTS cable into the socket labeled “BTS” located on the back of the controller as
shown below.
2) Secure the ring terminal on the BTS directly to any side of the battery to be monitored, below the
electrolyte level as shown below. When multiple batteries are used, it is best to place the sensor
between batteries and place the batteries in an insulated box to reduce the influence of the ambient
temperature outside the battery enclosure.

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CAUTION: High power electrical systems pose dangers and it is the user's responsibility to be familiar with
these dangers and take any necessary action to ensure safe use. Shorting a battery or connecting your
controller to a battery can supply huge currents and have serious consequences including explosions,
causing fire damage to equipment, and personal injury including death.
2.4 PARALLEL CONNECTIONS
Multiple controllers can be installed in parallel on the same battery bank to achieve higher charging current.
For example, connecting two units in parallel can allow for 60 amps of charging current, and connecting
three units in parallel can allow for up to 90 amps of charging current.
Additional parallel controllers can also be added in the future, however, each Controller must have its own
PV array as shown below.
3 OPERATION
Once the controller is properly connected, the main display interface will appear in the LCD and the current
battery State of Charge (SOC), the battery voltage, and the current generated and consumed will be
displayed.
Press the MENU button to cycle through the eight different configurable interfaces available on the P30LF
controller. The cycle pattern of the interfaces is presented in Section 3.3 and the definition of each interface
is presented in Section 3.4.

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3.1 BUTTON DEFINITIONS
Button
Name
Description
MENU
Toggles the active LCD interface to enter the edit
menu as defined in Sec 3.3
ENTER
Accept or confirmation of parameter selections.
UP / DOWN
UP: Positive (+) parameter adjustments
DOWN: Negative (-) parameter adjustments.
3.2 LCD DISPLAY
The controller features a two-line display to provide a snap shot of the system. This information is
only displayed while the controller is in normal operating mode
Top Display Line
Measured Values for Labeled Parameters
Parameter
Description
SOC
State of Charge: Battery Capacity presented as a percentage*
*NOTE: Display will never show 100% due to character limitations
BAT
Battery: Actual Battery Voltage
IN
Input current to the battery from the controller*; i.e.: the current being
generated by the solar panels (displayed in Amp Hours).
*NOTE: Amount of current sent to battery depends on battery State of Charge (SOC)
OUT
Output current from the controller to the load; i.e.: the current being
consumed by the load (displayed in Amp Hours)
NOTE: IN / OUT Range is 0 –999kAh and can be reset to “0” by removing battery power
Second Display Line
Cycles between charging stage / status and BTS temperature readings
Parameter
Description

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Bulk Charging
Controller will provide the battery as much of constant current as it will
accept (up to 30 amps) as voltage increases.
Boost Charging
Also referred to as Absorption stage, the controller will hold the
voltage at the Boost set point, decreasing the current until the battery
is fully charged.
Float Charging
Voltage is reduced to controller set point and held constant, while the
current is reduced to less than 1% of battery capacity. This mode can
be used to maintain a fully charged battery indefinitely
Equal Charging
Controlled over charge where the voltage is brought up above typical
peak charging voltage into the gassing stage, and held for a fixed
period, "equalizing" the electrolyte, removing loose sulphation that
may be on the battery plates
No Charging
Battery is charged or there is no charge to transfer to battery
Temp
Displays the measured temperature* from the BTS
*NOTE: Temperature is displayed in Celsius and Fahrenheit
Error Condition
The Controller will display various Error Conditions; See Section 3.6
for details
3.3 LCD MENU INTERFACE CYCLE
3.4 MENU INTERFACE DEFINITIONS
The P30LF has eight different user menu interfaces to provision the controller accessible by pressing the
MENU button on the front panel of the controller. Once the MENU button is pressed, you can use the UP and
DOWN buttons to navigate to the desired parameter. Once visible, press ENTER to adjust the parameter.
3.4.1 Battery Type Setting
In this menu, you may select the battery type you are using.
By pressing the UP and DOWN button from this interface, you can select from the following: AGM, Flooded,
Gel; Default: AGM.
3.4.2 Boost Charge Setting
The value displayed is the Boost Charge Parameter and should be set per your battery manufacturer’s
recommendations.
By pressing the UP and DOWN button from this interface, you can set the value to 14.0~15.0V / 28.0~30.0V;
Default: 14.5V/29.0V.
3.4.3 Equalization Charge Setting
The value displayed is the Equalization Charge Parameter and should be set per your battery manufacturer’s
recommendations. The Equalization Charge Setting is NOT available if you have selected Battery Type “Gel”

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and will only be performed if the battery voltage is allowed to get to below 40% SOC (~12.1V) and will last for
approximately two hours.
By pressing the UP and DOWN button from this interface, you can set the value to 14.0~15.5V / 28.0~31.0V;
Default: 15.0V/30.0V.
IMPORTANT: Check the battery manufacturer's data sheet for maximum equalizing voltage.
WARNING: The battery charging voltage is passed to the loads by the solar charge controller. Therefore,
during equalization charging, high charging voltages may damage some loads.
Please select the equalization charge voltage very carefully and be sure the voltage will not damage any
loads that are being powered through the controller’s load terminals.
3.4.4 Float Charge Setting
The value displayed is the Float Charge Parameter and should be set per your battery manufacturer’s
recommendations.
By pressing the UP and DOWN button from this interface, you can set the value to 13.0~13.8V / 26.0~27.6V;
Default: 13.7V/27.4V.
3.4.5 Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) Setting
The value displayed in this interface is the Low Voltage Disconnect protection voltage set for the controller. If
the battery voltage is lower than the set protection voltage, the controller will automatically disconnect the
load to prevent the battery from over-discharging.
By pressing the UP and DOWN button from this interface, you can set the value to 11.0~12.5V / 22.0~25.0V;
Default: 11.1V/22.2V.
IMPORTANT: The smallest difference between LVD and LVR allowed is 0.8V/1.6V. Be sure to first increase
the LVR level for higher LVD levels.
3.4.6 Low Voltage Reconnect (LVR) Setting
The value displayed in this interface is the Low Voltage Reconnect voltage set for the controller. After the
controller enters into a low voltage protection state (Section 3.5.1), and the battery voltage recovers to the
value set for the Low Voltage Reconnect, the controller will reconnect the load automatically.
By pressing the UP and DOWN button from this interface, you can set the value to 11.8~13.3V / 23.6~26.6V;
Default: 12.6V/25.2V.
3.4.7 Load Timed Control Setting
The P30LF charge controller has a mode setting function to set specific operation parameters. It is preset to
the factory default of normal control (24 hours). In ‘Normal’ mode, the load will draw from the battery at all
times, and the PV panel will charge the battery when sunlight is available. It is also possible to have the load
remain on for a set duration, and when that set time period has elapsed, the load will switch off. The duration
setting is available in increments of 1 hour and 1 through 15 hour delays can be selected.