Solar system monitor apps

[scottsmith111]

I have two small solar systems that I'm testing on some remote land in the hills of Tennessee.

On both systems, I have an Epever Tracer 4210AN MPPT and two 100W panels - very basic. I'm building small, getting my feet wet. These are both working well.

I wanted to do some basic monitoring of the system - I bought a SnekTek - Solar WiFi dashboard controller to play with. It's been interesting, kinda useful. I also built my own RS422 monitor using a MicroBit and MODBUS to pull data out of the charge controller and that's working pretty spiffy.

But I'd really like to settle on a commercially supported set of monitoring apps instead of spending too much time on the DYI side of monitoring.

Anyone have suggestions on what monitoring apps/tools I should be looking at? I'll admit I have not done a lot of searching, but what searching I've done so fare has turned up little...

Advice always welcome!

Scott

 

[Rocketman]

I really like the monitoring on my Victron smart solar charge controllers. If you ever need a new SCC look at their screens. Lots of info... I know that doesn’t help you now...

 

[scottsmith111]

I have been thinking about trying out Victron, so your reply is very timely. I actually have one of my systems up and have the equipment ready for the second, but I can still return the Epever. I think I'll do that so I can give the Victron controllers a try.

Any other advice, always welcome!!

 

[Rocketman]

Make sure you get the Smart Solar that has Bluetooth to your phone for the reports. The BlueSolar does not.

 

[45North]

bump
Anything new on this?
Is anyone using the Snektek?
Is Victron still preferred? (If you can afford it)

 

[OffGridGuy]

Victron makes a great controller.

Looks like you like to get your hands dirty and I assume you have an internet connection up there.

Most of the Victron controllers units have a 4 pin plug that supports their VE.Direct protocol.

Check out https://www.victronenergy.com/live/vedirect_protocol:faq

There are a ton of open source projects that connect to their products.

Good luck with your project.