SunForte System II

PV modules
Installed: Yingli Poly-Si 110 Wp
http://www.yinglisolar.com/images/110%EF%BC%881470%EF%BC%89%20.pdf

Product Specifications
Nominal module voltage: 12V
Max Power: 110W
MPP voltage: 17.5V
MPP current: 6.3A
VOC: 22.0V
ISC: 7.0A
Module efficiency: 11%
Solar Charge controller
Installed: Morningstar TS-60
http://www.morningstarcorp.com/products/TriStar/index.shtml

Product Specifications
Nominal system voltage: 12/24/36/48V
Max module current: 60A
Max charge current: 60A
Overvoltage protection: >125V
Remote monitoring features

Unlike the T-80, it doesnt have MPPT. However, one interesting feature of this SCC is its ability to wirelessly transmit information about its operating details like PV output, battery state-of-charge and charging current via a GPRS modem.

More updates would be posted regarding the Solar Lab remote monitoring system.

------------------ Quick tip------------------

GSM (Global System for Mobile) technology is the most prevalent form of telecommunication medium today. It provides cheap and extensive coverage, and is a reliable medium for information transmission. The General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), though more advanced and can provide a higher bitrate for data transfer, is also based upon the GSM network.

For off-grid systems based at remote and inaccessible regions, remote monitoring capabilities are extremely useful since updates about system performance can be sent to the end-user in a convenient manner. For example, the FatSpaniel (FST) Web View can send instant updates to the internet via GPRS. This information can then be accessed by the end-user with a basic internet connection.

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This is the display monitor that is installed for the TS-60. It allows the monitor to be installed up to 20m away from the SCC:


Inverter and various loads
Installed: Conergy MIC 350 and power strip
http://www.conergy.de/en/Desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-198/282_read-2361/

Product Specifications
Nominal system voltage: 12V
Continuous output power: 350VA
Max output power: 400VA
Peak output power (for 500ms): 700VA
Power consumption under no load conditions: 9.5W
Maximum input current: 45A

Unfortunately, the two inverters we had were rated 12Vdc. These would be used in the interim, until we get our hands on the SunTechnics 24Vdc STW inverters.

Power strip for AC distribution:

Standing fan for ventilation:

The Solar Home System Entertainment Set (FM radio):

The Entertainment set ran directly on DC power and was connected directly across one of the 12V batteries.

Batteries
Installed: HBL NIFE 12V TGI100
http://www.foreenerji.com/pdf/HB-080T_mn.pdf

Like the other 24V system, another two batteries would be connected in series to form a battery bank for our TS-60 charge controller. One important aspect of our SCC evaluation is to monitor the state of charge of the two battery banks.