The controller is regulating battery voltage now. Target voltage has been set at 14.2 volts. The display LED shows a PWM simulation when target battery voltage is reached (this doesn't show up too well on the video), and a series of flashes when it's below target voltage. 1 flash for 11 volts, 2 for 12 volts, 3 for 13 volts etc. It also shows a series of rapid flashes if voltage drops below 10.5 volts.

The LED can be turned off altogether if desired to save power. With the LED turned off, the controller takes very little current - about 0.5 milliamps, that's just 500 microamps!

Future developments will include detection of excessively long cables between the battery and the controller or excessive current flow. Also voltage measurements will be more discriminating to get a more precise, more stable feedback control.

Part of 'designing a solar charge controller' at www.256.co.uk

By Julian

Youtuber, shed dweller, solar charge controller aficionado

6 thoughts on “Pwm solar charge controller”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Wayne Johnson says:

    The beginnings of PWM Solar Charge Controller!

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Raymond Earle says:

    Very informative. Thank you for a great video.

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Tolu Akinbulire says:

    i was wondering if u could help me in this aspect cause i want to build a solar panel charger also utilizing voltage feedback control, but i don't really know how to go about it

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lanny Davidson says:

    Nice way to start out learning about solar power and the diff. components. Greetings from sunny Jamaica.

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jamie Greenaway says:

    COOL VIDEO, IM GETTING A SMALL 5 WATT SOLAR PANEL AND A CONTROLLER TO RUN SOME LIGHTS IN MY CARAVAN.

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Brad says:

    tidier i feel to use power resistors as dummy load

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