I have always steered away from Xantrex controllers, primarily because of the
pathetic temperature specification: 32F to 104F. I have a remote cabin in
Ontario, Canada that has to survive on its own during the winter with
temperatures well outside that range. I suspect many remote mountaintops would
be outside this range as well. I have never understood why a Canadian company
would design such a beastgo figure...
73,
John WØDP
Ames, Iowa
- Original Message -
From: skipp025
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, February 15, 2007 2:33 PM
Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Solar Power Charge Controller Report
Re: Solar Power Charge Controller Report
I just put in another solar power system using a Trace Xantrex
C-60 aka C60 Controller. My first time using this (specific) newer
generation Trace controller model, which appears to have an onboard
pic processor. When compared to earlier C35 and C40 controllers the
mechanical relay also goes away for 100% electronic switching/control.
Lots to say about the C60... most of the current model features being
well received. Of interest is the ability to configure the controller
as a charge controller or a load diverter (but not at the same time).
The only major downside is no true load LVD in the charge controller
mode. ... but few small or moderate capacity quality solar charge
controllers seem to include load LVD. But it's not a problem if
you simply include a Load LVD such as the Newmar LVD units previously
mentioned here in the group.
Construction quality is pretty good and the manual is pretty darn
good. Sad to see the unit now being made in China but that's the way
of the world global economy.
I needed the 60 amp capacity... otherwise I would probably spec the
C40 controller for the higher input voltage range. The C60 input
range is very good but the C40 input range is very impressive.
System install and startup went without a hitch so onward we go...
cheers,
skipp