Samlex Solar SBC-2 Owner's Manual

The Samlex Solar SBC-2 is a 2-Bank Solar Battery Charger designed for efficient and safe charging of two separate 12V lead-acid batteries (flooded, AGM, or Gel) from a single solar panel array. It features Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology, intelligent 3-stage charging, comprehensive protection systems, and an LCD display for monitoring. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: MPPT Charge Controller, LCD Display, PV Input Terminals, Battery Bank 1 & 2 Output Terminals, Load Output Terminals, Temperature Sensor Port.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Mount in a dry, well-ventilated location.

1. Mount the Controller: Use provided screws to mount on a vertical surface.
2. Connect Solar Panel(s): Connect PV positive and negative cables to the PV INPUT terminals. Observe polarity.
3. Connect Batteries: Connect Battery Bank 1 and Bank 2 positive and negative cables to their respective terminals. Connect Battery 1 FIRST.
4. Connect Load (Optional): Connect DC load wires to the LOAD OUTPUT terminals.
5. Connect Temperature Sensor: Plug the sensor into its port and attach it to the battery.

WARNING! Disconnect all power sources before making connections. Ensure all connections are tight and correct to prevent damage or fire.

First-Time Setup

Once installed, power will flow from the solar panel. The LCD will illuminate.

1. Configure Battery Type: Press the MODE button to navigate menus. Set the correct battery type (Flooded, AGM, Gel, User).
2. Verify Charging Status: The display will show PV input voltage/current and the charging stage for each battery bank.
3. Set Load Control (Optional): Program the load output mode (e.g., manual on/off, light timer, low-voltage disconnect).
4. Check Temperature Sensor: Ensure the temperature reading is accurate for proper charge compensation.

CAUTION! Never connect an AC source or a charged battery in reverse polarity. Use appropriate cable sizes to handle maximum current.

Specifications

• Model: SBC-2 (Dual Bank MPPT Solar Charge Controller).
• Max PV Input Voltage: 100V DC.
• Max PV Input Power: 260W per bank (520W total).
• Charge Current: Up to 20A per bank (40A total).
• Battery Voltage: 12V nominal (for each bank).
• Battery Types: Flooded, AGM, Gel, User-Defined.
• Display: Backlit LCD.
• Protections: Reverse Polarity, Over-Current, Over-Voltage, Short-Circuit, Over-Temperature.
• Operating Temp: -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F).
• Enclosure Rating: IP20 (for indoor/dry locations).

Controls and Settings

Access settings via the front panel buttons (MODE, ENTER, UP, DOWN). LCD Display shows status and menus.

Buttons: MODE (navigate menus), ENTER (select/save), UP/DOWN (adjust values).

Menu Settings: Battery Type Selection, Charging Voltage Setpoints (Absorption, Float), Load Control Mode (Manual, Timer, LVD), System Voltage Display, Temperature Compensation Enable/Disable, Reset to Factory Defaults.

Display Information: PV Voltage & Current, Battery 1 & 2 Voltage, Charging Stage (Bulk, Absorb, Float), Charging Current per Bank, Load Status, Error Codes.

Connecting Devices

PV Input: Connect solar panel array. Battery Outputs: Connect to Battery Bank 1 and Bank 2. Load Output: Connect DC loads (lights, fans).

1. Turn off/disconnect all power sources before connecting.
2. Use proper gauge wires for PV, battery, and load connections to minimize voltage drop.
3. Install appropriate fuses or circuit breakers on the positive leads between the battery and controller.
4. Ensure the PV array open-circuit voltage (Voc) does not exceed the controller's maximum input voltage, especially in cold weather.

Tip: Follow the connection sequence: 1. Battery, 2. PV, 3. Load. Disconnect in reverse order.

Operation & Charging Modes

Automatically manages the 3-stage charging process for each battery bank independently.

1. Bulk Stage: Delivers maximum available current until battery voltage reaches the Absorption setpoint.
2. Absorption Stage: Holds voltage at Absorption level while current tapers down.
3. Float Stage: Reduces voltage to Float level to maintain battery without overcharging.
4. Load Control: The load output can be manually controlled or set to automatic modes (e.g., turn on at dusk, off at dawn, or disconnect when battery voltage is low).
5. Monitoring: Use the LCD to monitor real-time input, output, and system status.

WARNING! Do not connect a DC-DC converter or another charger to the load terminals. The load output is for DC loads only.

Protection Features

Reverse Polarity Protection: Prevents damage if PV or battery leads are reversed. Over-Current Protection: Limits output current. Over-Voltage Protection: Protects battery from excessive voltage. Short-Circuit Protection: On load output. Over-Temperature Protection: Reduces charge current if controller overheats. Low-Voltage Disconnect (LVD): Protects batteries from deep discharge by disconnecting loads.

Care & Maintenance

Periodically check all terminal connections for tightness and signs of corrosion. Keep the unit clean and free of dust. Ensure ventilation is not blocked. Inspect wiring insulation regularly.

CAUTION! Do not open the controller case. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Contact qualified service personnel.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. ETL Listed to UL Standard 1741 and CSA C22.2 No. 107.1. Copyright © Samlex Solar. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.samlexsolar.com or contact 1-800-123-4567.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Disconnect PV and battery, wait 60 seconds, then reconnect battery first, then PV.

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