I have this new charge controller for my solar power system.
One of it's features is 'temperature compensation' and it has something to do with changing how the battery is charged depending on it's temperature.
The 'temperature compensation' feature is adjustable in programming and is measured in millivolts per cell per degree C (I think). You can set the value to zero which, according to the manual, means 'temperature compensation feature inactive'.
There is no external port for a temperature probe, and reviews of the unit online seem to confirm, the temperature sensor is a fixed component located permanently within the unit. The idea seems to be, that the controller is mounted in the same enclosure as the batteries.
Well for safetys sake I fitted my battery bank outside the house in a dedicated enclosure, but the controller is fitted inside in the understairs cupboard.
How important is the temperature compensation?
I have 2 options.. leave the function disabled, or fit the controller outside in the battery enclosure.
I'd rather not open the unit to try and create an external probe port, it's tempting but I'd rather preserve the guarantee.
If the compensation feature doesn't really give massive improvements in charging or battery life, I'm tempted to just leave it set to 'off'. What do you guys think?
One of it's features is 'temperature compensation' and it has something to do with changing how the battery is charged depending on it's temperature.
The 'temperature compensation' feature is adjustable in programming and is measured in millivolts per cell per degree C (I think). You can set the value to zero which, according to the manual, means 'temperature compensation feature inactive'.
There is no external port for a temperature probe, and reviews of the unit online seem to confirm, the temperature sensor is a fixed component located permanently within the unit. The idea seems to be, that the controller is mounted in the same enclosure as the batteries.
Well for safetys sake I fitted my battery bank outside the house in a dedicated enclosure, but the controller is fitted inside in the understairs cupboard.
How important is the temperature compensation?
I have 2 options.. leave the function disabled, or fit the controller outside in the battery enclosure.
I'd rather not open the unit to try and create an external probe port, it's tempting but I'd rather preserve the guarantee.
If the compensation feature doesn't really give massive improvements in charging or battery life, I'm tempted to just leave it set to 'off'. What do you guys think?