Acopower PLK-2x100W20A User Manual

The Acopower PLK-2x100W20A is a portable solar power kit featuring two 100W monocrystalline solar panels and a 20A PWM charge controller. Designed for off-grid applications such as RVs, cabins, boats, and emergency backup, it provides reliable DC power conversion and battery charging. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two 100W Monocrystalline Solar Panels, 20A PWM Charge Controller, Cables, and Mounting Hardware.

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose a sunny, unobstructed location.

1. Mount Solar Panels: Use included brackets to secure panels on roof, ground, or pole. Ensure angle towards sun (approx. 30-45°).
2. Connect Panels to Controller: Use provided MC4 cables. Connect in parallel (for 12V) or series (for 24V) as needed.
3. Connect Battery: First connect battery terminals to controller (BAT+ and BAT-), observing correct polarity.
4. Connect Load: Attach DC load wires to LOAD terminals on controller.
5. Secure Wiring: Route cables safely, avoid sharp edges, use cable ties.

WARNING! Install and connect battery first before connecting solar panels to avoid controller damage. Ensure all connections are tight and corrosion-free.

First-Time Setup

After installation, power on the system and configure the charge controller.

1. Battery Connection: Verify battery voltage (12V or 24V) matches system.
2. Controller Setup: Press SET button on controller to select battery type (default: Sealed). Use arrows to choose.
3. Load Settings: Configure load output mode (Manual, On/Off Timer, or Light Control).
4. Monitor: Check LCD for solar input voltage, battery voltage, charging current, and status icons.

CAUTION! Never disconnect battery under load. Always follow correct connection sequence: Battery first, then solar panels, then load.

Specifications

• Solar Panel (each): 100W, Monocrystalline, 18.4V Vmp, 5.43A Imp.
• Combined Output: 200W max (under ideal conditions).
• Charge Controller: 20A PWM, 12V/24V auto, efficiency >98%.
• Battery Voltage: 12V or 24V (auto-detected).
• Max PV Input: 100V DC, 520W for 12V battery, 1040W for 24V battery.
• Display: Backlit LCD with real-time data.
• Protections: Overcharge, short-circuit, reverse polarity, over-temperature, over-load.
• Operating Environment: -20°C to 50°C, humidity ≤90%.
• Connectors: MC4 (panels), screw terminals (battery/load).
• Warranty: 1 year on controller, 25-year linear output warranty on panels.

Controls and Settings

Access settings via buttons on charge controller. LCD shows status: battery level, charging mode, faults.

Buttons: SET (enter menu), UP/DOWN (navigate/change values), ESC (exit).

Menu Options: Battery Type (Sealed, Gel, Flooded, LiFePO4), Load Control (Manual, Timer, Light Sensor), Charging Parameters (float, equalize voltages), System Voltage (12V/24V auto), Language, Reset.

Charging Stages: Bulk, Absorption, Float. LED Indicators: Green (charging), Yellow (float), Red (fault).

Connecting Devices

Panels: Use MC4 connectors. Battery: 12V or 24V lead-acid/LiFePO4. Load: DC appliances up to 20A.

1. Turn off all switches before connecting.
2. Connect battery to controller first (RED to BAT+, BLACK to BAT-).
3. Connect solar panels to PV inputs on controller (RED to PV+, BLACK to PV-).
4. Connect load wires to LOAD terminals.
5. Power on battery switch, then observe controller display.

Tip: Use appropriate wire gauge (min. 10 AWG for battery, 12 AWG for panels) to minimize voltage drop.

Operation & Monitoring

Daily operation is automatic; monitor via controller LCD.

1. Check Status: LCD shows battery voltage (e.g., 12.5V), charging current (e.g., 8.2A), PV voltage, and battery icon (full/empty).
2. Charging Modes: Bulk (high current), Absorption (constant voltage), Float (maintenance).
3. Load Control: Set load to manual (always on), timer (on/off at set times), or light sensor (on at dusk, off at dawn).
4. Data Logging: Some models store min/max voltages; press SET to scroll.
5. Alerts: Error codes display for faults (E1: battery overvoltage, E2: short circuit, etc.).

WARNING! Do not exceed max input voltage (100V). Disconnect solar panels before servicing.

Safety Features

Protections: Overcharge, short-circuit, reverse polarity, over-temperature, over-load. Fuse: Install 20A fuse on battery positive line. Grounding: Ground solar panel frames and system as per local electrical codes.

Care & Maintenance

Regularly clean solar panels with water and soft cloth; check connections for corrosion; ensure ventilation around controller.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on panels. Disconnect all power before cleaning or maintenance. Keep controller dry and away from direct sunlight.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE, RoHS compliant. Copyright © 2025 Acopower; trademarks of Acopower Inc. For support, visit www.acopower.com or contact 1-800-123-4567.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Hold SET + DOWN for 5 seconds to factory reset (settings lost).

Service: 1-800-123-4567; www.acopower.com