diy solar

diy solar

Recent content by Fred

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    Video Request

    Hey Will. Here is a video request for your consideration. Off grid 48v system capable of autostarting a backup generator to recharge when bank is low. I wonder if there are any all in one systems capable of controlling a generator? My winco standby generator has a two wire auto start feature...
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    Orion Jr. 2 BMS -computer connection

    Yes, you can connect using a standard usb to serial cable. You do not need the resistors for this. Just plug and play.
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    Will's review of the Fortune Brand 100AH Cells

    The blue plastic is somewhat transparent so it is possible to see through it. I was able to get manufacturing info from the folks I bought them from (see above).
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    Best BMS to use

    W why not parallel groups of two cells to make four 200 ah 3.2v cells. Then put those 4 units in series to make 12v 200 ah. One bms to monitor.
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    BLS 4x 3.2V 200Ah LiFePO4 - voltage difference between cells

    I would cancel and order 100ah freedom cells from Electric Car Parts Company.
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    Orion BMS installed- battery amperage is highly variable

    I have since learned that this is normal due to the AC demands of the inverter
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    How to Parallel Balancing. (YEP 99% of us is doing it wrong)(PART#1)

    Good questions. I too expected to be at a higher SOC when the voltage reached the absorb voltage setting. Once charging stopped, the measured voltage dropped to around 54 something. I need to do a close monitoring during charge now to see better what is happening on the high end. I would...
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    How to Parallel Balancing. (YEP 99% of us is doing it wrong)(PART#1)

    I have an Orion Jr 2 BMS. I can connect a laptop and monitor/log cell parameters and program BMS settings such as LVD, HVD, high current disconnect, voltage level to begin balance, temperature shut off, state of charge drift points, etc. It has pros and cons but the data logging is the reason I...
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    How to Parallel Balancing. (YEP 99% of us is doing it wrong)(PART#1)

    I decided to bottom balance since my operating range at the top end is limited by my midnite classics. I can set eq voltage, absorb voltage and float voltage. I set them at 56.8 (EQ is also disabled), 56.8, and 40. When the solar charging pushes the bank voltage to 56.8 I am done but my SOC...
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    Orion Jr BMS Review

    I thought I would post what I think are some pros and cons of the Orion Jr 2 BMS. I have been running it for about 10 days now. Pros: Very accurate monitoring of cell voltages and DC amps Many many settings and options allow you to customize everything to fit your needs I can connect a laptop...
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    48v 400a BMS

    The trickle charger was not large enough (only 750ma max) to maintain the gen start battery voltage. The contactor and BMS draw a little more than that. So, I am going to have a separate 12v lead acid battery and trickle charger (1.25 A) to power those devices and put the gen start battery back...
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    Will's review of the Fortune Brand 100AH Cells

    I just replaced my 860aH lead bank with 64 cell of these cells (4p16s). I bought them from Electric Car Parts Company in Utah. They have great customer service and I am very happy with the batteries. (Not a paid endorsement).
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    48v 400a BMS

    I split the image so that it would display larger....
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    48v 400a BMS

    Note that the contactor coil must be energized continuously and I am using my generator start battery (lead acid) to power it. It draws less than .4 amps. I have a trickle charger on that battery to maintain a charge on it. Let me try to enlarge that image..
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    48v 400a BMS

    Here is how I have mine set up to control a large contactor by switching very small current with my Orion JR2 BMS. Larger view in post further down.
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