0 Members and 3 Guests are viewing this topic.
I'm no electrician mind you, I'm just thinking that running 18vdc from the panels would cost me in wire size (read $$$).
If I put 3 batteries in series I don't change the AH rating just the voltage so if I put 3 panels in series I'm wondering if all I'm doing is increasing voltage and not wattage?
You are increasing voltage by a factor of three and the current flow remains the same.Using the example of a module rated at 18.5 volts, 11.1 amps, 205 watts...Place three panels in series you get 55.5 volts at 11.1 amps, 615 wattsIn parallel you get 18.5 volts at 33.3 amps, 615 watts
From oljarhead in another thread. Copied this part to here as it fits here better.- I see voltage in another way Running under 48vdc from the panels to the charge controller limits range on 10awg wire to under 50 feet (not sure the distance) where as 48vdc will run 50 feet on 10AWG according to xantrex. In my case I'm pushing 60vdc from the panels which gives me a little better (I think) performance at 50 feet over 10awg.I'm no electrician mind you, I'm just thinking that running 18vdc from the panels would cost me in wire size (read $$$). So, question: and I should post this in the other thread, but here goes anyway: Am I losing something by putting the panels in series and pushing out 60vdc to the controller?Another question is this: If I put 3 batteries in series I don't change the AH rating just the voltage so if I put 3 panels in series I'm wondering if all I'm doing is increasing voltage and not wattage? I figured 3 205watt panels would give me 615watts of charging power.Anyway, good topic!I'll have some response later. Dinner prep beckons....
Squirrel the C40 is designed to allow up to 120vdc in and will convert to 12, 24 or 48vdc for the bank so I am in no danger there I beleive. I'm running half what the input voltage it can take limits me to.As Don pointed out 11.27imp and 54.60vmp should give me 615watts of power...I think I'm fine.