Charge Controller Sizer

Calculate the required amperage for a charge controller.

Inputs

Outputs

Required Controller Amperage

31.25

System Diagram

System Schematic

Details

Description

This calculator helps determine the minimum required current rating (in amps) for a charge controller (either MPPT or PWM) based on the total power of the solar array and the voltage of the battery bank.

Design Principles

1. Power Conversion: The controller's job is to convert the power from the panels to the battery. The output current is roughly the total panel wattage divided by the battery voltage. 2. Worst-Case Scenario: Sizing is based on the maximum power the panels can produce (Pmax) under ideal conditions. 3. Safety Margin: A safety factor (typically 1.25 or 25%) is added to handle edge cases like cloud edge effect or higher than expected irradiance, ensuring the controller is not overloaded.

Relevant Equations