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HOW TO INSTALL GP-PWM-30-UL
1. Prepare for mounting. Use the template provided on page 35 to mark the four mounting holes and the cutting line for flush mounting your controller.
2. Complete the installation of the solar modules. If this GP-PWM-30-UL was purchased as part of a Go Power! Solar Power Kit follow the Installation Guide provided. Otherwise, follow manufacturer’s instructions for solar module mounting and wiring.
Do not exceed the GP-PWM-30-UL max current ratings
The maximum current of the solar system is the sum of parallel-connected PV module–rated short circuit Currents (Isc) multiplied by 1.25. The resulting system current is not to exceed 37.5A. If your solar system exceeds this value, contact your dealer for a suitable controller alternative.
Do not exceed the GP-PWM-30-UL max voltage ratings
The maximum voltage of the array is the sum of the PV module–rated open-circuit voltage of the series connected modules multiplied by 1.25 (or by a value from NEC 690.7 provided in Table 690.
7 A). The resulting voltage is not to exceed 35V. If your solar system exceeds this value, contact your dealer for a suitable controller alternative.
3. Select wire type and gauge. If this GP-PWM-30-UL was purchased as part of a Go Power! Solar Power Kit, appropriate wire type, gauge and length is provided. Please continue to Section 8, “Operating Instructions.” If the GP-PWM-30-UL was purchased separately, follow the instructions included here.
Wire type is recommended to be a stranded copper UV resistant wire. Wire fatigue and the likelihood of a loose connection are greatly reduced in stranded wire compared to solid wire. Wire gauge should be able to sustain rated current as well as minimize voltage drop.
Wire Strip Gauge
You will find a strip gauge diagram on the back of the GP-PWM-30-UL, which helps you to strip your wires to the correct length. Insert wire into the concave slot of the strip gauge until it meets the back of the Strip Gauge slot. Mark the length of wire from the back of the Strip Gauge slot to the edge of the controller with a pen or your finger and strip all wires to be connected to the controller to this length.
Suggested Minimum Wire Gauge
(Cable length 25 ft. max. from solar array to battery bank)
|
Wire size min (AWG) |
Wire size Max (AWG) |
|
|
Copper Only, 90°C |
AWG 10 |
AWG 4 |
IMPORTANT: Identify the polarity (positive and negative) on the cable used for the battery and solar module. Use colored wires or mark the wire ends with tags. Although the GP-PWM-30-UL is protected, a reverse polarity contact may damage the unit.
Wiring the GP-PWM-30-UL. Wire the GP-PWM-30-UL according to the wiring schematic in Section 7. Run wires from the solar array and the batteries to the location of the GP-PWM-30-UL. Keep the solar array covered with an opaque material until all wiring is completed.
IMPORTANT: All wiring must be in accordance to National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70.
4. Connect the battery wiring to the controller first and then connect the battery wiring to the battery.
5. Torque all terminal screws per the following:
|
Stranded Copper 90°C Wire |
|
|
Wire Size AWG |
Rated Torque (in-lbs) |
|
10 |
20 |
|
8 |
25 |
|
6 |
35 |
|
4 |
35 |
With battery power attached, the controller should power up and display information. Connect the solar wiring to the controller and remove the opaque material from the solar array. The negative solar array and battery wiring must be connected directly to the controller for proper operation. Do not connect the negative solar array or negative battery controller wiring to the chassis of the vehicle.
6. Mounting the GP-PWM-30-UL. Mount the GP-PWM-30-UL to the wall using the included four mounting screws.
IMPORTANT: You must set the battery type on the GP-PWM-30-UL before you begin to use the controller. The default battery setting is for AGM batteries. Congratulations, your GP-PWM-30-UL should now be operational. If the battery power is low and the solar array is producing power, your battery should begin to charge.
7. Re-torque: After 30 days of operation, re-torque all terminal screws to ensure the wires are properly secured to the controller
WARNING: This unit is not provided with a GFDI device. This charge controller must be used with an external GFDI device as required by Article 690 of the National Electric Code for the installation location.
