Why Your Charge Controller Plays Such an Integral Role
Sold to users in separate devices, usually in conjunction with wind or solar generators, a charge controller forms an integral part of almost all power systems that charge batteries.
Regardless of whether the power source is PV, wind, hydro, fuel or from the utility grid – charge controllers are essential to all of these.
The main function and key is to keep your batteries fed correctly to ensure longevity and to guarantee their safety at all times.
The functions of a charge controller are quite straightforward, too – the main idea behind these devices is to block reverse current and to prevent battery overcharge.
Certain battery controllers have been designed to prevent batteries from discharging and protecting them from electrical overload as well as displaying battery status and the sequence of power.
A charge controller is also referred to as a charge regulator or battery regulator and it limits the rate at which electric current is applied to or taken from electric batteries.
Some charge controllers are also able to monitor battery temperature to prevent overheating, while other charge controller arrangements also display data, convey data to remote displays, and information logging to track electric current over the course of time.
Charge controllers have taken on numerous new features in today’s market, including augmented capacity as they reach higher operating voltages to house even larger systems.
Charge controllers are now able to offer enhanced flexibility, with more controllers using better-quality weather-resistant configurations that operate under environmental extremes with less maintenance.
Innovative designs with greater thermal administration will allow professional designers to bring solar to more challenging areas that necessitate the use of electricity; amongst these being research stations, isolated telecommunications sites and mining and energy set-ups.