How about a "training wheels" version of several popular charge controllers? A simple toggle switch on the side that says "Extended Absence / Normal Occupied" ? Then the installer can program two (2) sets of charge setpoints, one for a normal get-as-much-as-you-can charging program, and a very low float-trickle charging.
When we designed automation systems to control all the lighting and multiple HVAC systems in large buildings we had a similar problem. The first control systems had extensive programming in a central desktop computer using custom programming where the installer tried to guess what occupied and un-occupied hours were needed in each office area and what occupied and unoccupied temperatures the HVAC systems should be programmed to start and stop. As soon as people moved in to these new buildings most of this control programming no longer matched reality and since nobody on site had access or knew how to program the complex control systems they got disconnected or over-ridden by people having no understanding as to how the HVAC should operate. Finally the installers and manufacturers learned from their mistakes and started installing wall mounted "non-adjustable" temperature sensors (adjustable thermostats no longer used) which had a simple "reset" button on the side. Now if somebody is working late or needs a "kick" to their HVAC system, they just press the button and a separate set of pre-programmed setpoints go into effect for a given extended period of time. Employees are happy as they can now get the HVAC systems to come back on if they happen to have an un-scheduled Saturday morning conference room meeting, and the owners are happy since the employees are not in a battle to see who can over-ride the control systems to get the da-- air conditioner to turn back on. Just a thought........................ Jeff Yago _______________________________________________ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
