I decided to put together a system with two 100-Watt solar panels, a couple of deep cycle batteries and a good quality solar charge controller, instead of the simple on/off type. I'm an electronics engineer and I used to design battery chargers for sealed lead acid batteries. I know how important it is for longevity and charge density to properly charge and maintain the batteries. Even in the best of all possible worlds any sealed lead acid battery is going to be down to about 60% capacity after 5 years, so these devices that maintain the batteries are important.
This product is well-built and appears to be of high quality. Initial setup and programming was very easy and the instructions go beyond instructing you to the point of adding a little education. I tested my system with volt and current meters and this device worked very well. It does exactly what it's supposed to do, it's nicely packaged and easy to use. It just works.I like this controller because the solar panels are always changing directions with my boat. The constant 3 digital readings of battery voltage, Solar amperage and the load being drawn is excellent. I can now adjust my amp draw on the battery to match what is being replaced to the battery in amps and also have a good idea of how much energy is left in my battery.
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