Charge Controller, 5 A, MPPT, Genasun

Description

What this product does: The Genasun GV-5-LFP charge controller is a voltage regulator that keeps your LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate, also called LFP) batteries from being over charged by your solar panels. Most “12 volt” panels put out about 16 V to 20 V, but 12.8 V LFP batteries require about 14.2 V to become fully charged, so without regulation the batteries will be damaged from overcharging.

Recommended use(s): This charge controller is used in the Villager Portable Solar Power System.

Advantages of this product: The Genasun GV-5 is a small, single module 5 A, 12 V, MPPT (maximum power point tracking) charge controller with three-stage charging (bulk charge, absorption and float) and temperature compensation specifically for LFP batteries. It has one LED status light to show the charging status and faults. It is fully encapsulated in epoxy potting for protection against moisture and dust. The Genasun has a built-in low voltage disconnect (LVD) to protect the battery bank from complete discharge.

Disadvantages of this product: At 11.5 V the low voltage disconnect is set too low for good battery health.

Additional notes: If you don’t know what a LiFePO4 battery is then don’t buy this; it’s not what you need! It will not work correctly with AGM or any lead acid batteries, nor will it work with other, more common, lithium battery types.

The Genasun GV-5 can use a maximum panel size of 68 watts. Maximum load draw of 5 amps. The output should be fused or have a breaker to protect this charge controller from overloads.

The screw terminals accept a maximum wire size of 10 AWG.  Dimensions: 4.3 x 2.2 x 0.9″, 11 x 5.6 x 2.5 cm

This is a replacement item for the Villager N models

Accessories:

• Villager Portable Solar Power System VILLAGER-III-BP

Manufacturer’s info: Genasun GV-5 User’s Manual, Genasun GV-5 Booklet

Availability: Special order from Genasun