An MPPT controller that makes the most of your panels
Installed between the solar array and the battery, this Victron Energy controller continuously adjusts its operating point to draw the available power from the panels, then turns it into a charging current suited to the battery. It fits a converted van, a boat, a garden shed or a remote cabin running on a 12 V or 24 V battery bank.
Day-to-day use
Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth, no separate display is needed: a smartphone is enough to check the charging status and change settings. The Auto Select function recognises the battery voltage by itself, so there is one less step at commissioning. Because the unit tracks the panels’ maximum power point, it is a sensible choice when the array is larger or when sunlight changes through the day, for example with passing clouds or a changing angle of the sun.
Home and professional uses
- Private users: motorhome, caravan, sailing boat, hut or small off-grid system.
- Professionals: technical cabinet, measuring station, site equipment running on batteries.
Design
The housing is made of plastic and measures 130 x 186 x 70 mm for a weight of 1300 g, a compact size that fits easily in a technical locker. The protection rating is IP43 for the electronics and IP22 for the connections, so the unit is meant for a sheltered location rather than direct exposure to rain.
Installation and wiring
- Pick a dry, ventilated spot close to the battery to keep the power cables short.
- Check that the open-circuit voltage of the panel array, including in very cold weather, stays below the 100 V input limit.
- Connect the battery first, then the panels, respecting polarity.
- Pair your smartphone and review the charging settings for the battery type you use.
Size the cables according to the expected current and refer to the manufacturer’s manual. If the controller is part of a larger installation, have the wiring done by a qualified installer.
Key strengths
- Charge current of 50 A.
- Handles 700 W of panels at 12 V and 1400 W at 24 V.
- Low self-consumption of 10 mA.
- Wireless monitoring and setup from a smartphone.
Technical specifications
- Manufacturer: Victron Energy
- Battery voltage: 12/24 V Auto Select
- Rated charge current: 50 A
- Rated PV power at 12 V: 700 W
- Rated PV power at 24 V: 1400 W
- Input: 100 V
- Self-consumption: 10 mA
- Protection rating: IP43 (electronics) / IP22 (connections)
- Dimensions: 130 x 186 x 70 mm
- Weight: 1300 g
- Material: plastic
Safety, care and storage
Always disconnect the source before working on the terminals, and tighten connections properly to avoid overheating. Do not cover the housing and leave air space around it. Wipe off dust now and then with a dry cloth and check the condition of the cables. If the unit will sit unused for a long time, keep it somewhere dry, away from moisture.
