Re: [RE-wrenches] Late 2010 Report: Magnum Advanced Remote & Magnum Switchgear
Thanks Mick for the post we always welcome feedback from installers after all you guys are the experts! A couple of notes to clarify Mick's observations. Mick is correct, the version 2.1 of the ME-ARC release Feb 2010 did have a software bug where the decimal point was in the wrong place in the Amps IN/OUT meter. The calculation for the SOC meter was still correct so the actual SOC displayed was correct but the individual meter was wrong by a factor of 10. The bug was reported in May 2010 and the fix (along with some new features) was released Nov 2010. We apologize for the inconvenience this bug caused but we didn't recall the product as the SOC was still correct, which is the most critical meter to determine battery SOC. Again thanks for your insight on the MMP and MP panels. We use Torx fasters not as a deterrent but because the sheet metal is "funnel punched", which means when we receive it there are no threads for the screws. We use a special thread forming screw (not to be confused with self tapping screws, thread forming screws leave no metal shavings when forming the threads) to drive into the sheet metal which takes some force to achieve the threads. We use Torx instead of Phillips heads because Phillips heads screws strip out to easily during the process of using the thread forming screws. We have used Torx thread forming fasteners in our products from the very inception of Magnum and you may notice they hold the top covers and all the boards together in the inverters. The original MMP units did not have a charge controller bracket. It was added later as were the PEM nuts for the mounting to the MMP, so there are no holes to drill on the current MMP. The charger controller bracket fits the right or left hand side and fits: MidNite, Outback and Morningstar controllers. The controller is mounted with the nipple at the bottom and the bracket holds the top of the controller from "pivoting". For the Outback controllers there is also a hole in the MMP if you want to take one of the controller cover screws out you can reinsert the screw through the MMP into the controller. The last item I will mention is the lack of a bracket to mount the standard remote to the MP panels. The MP panels are designed for multiple parallel inverter installations which a ME-RTR (we call it a router, like a Hub and Mate in one unit) is required so you can parallel two or more inverters. We do provide a router bracket since most likely you would use an MMP for one inverter and the MP for multiple inverters. Hope this helps, and again thanks Mick your insight. Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy 2111 W Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 bfa...@magnumenergy.com > Message: 8 > Date: Wed, 22 Dec 2010 18:02:44 -0700 > From: Mick Abraham > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] Late 2010 Report: Magnum Advanced Remote & > Magnum switchgear > Message-ID: > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > Greetings, Mechanix~ > > The ARC-50 product from Magnum Energy--the Advanced Remote--has some > features not available on the regular RC-50--such as an internal clock to > manage things like generator quiet time. The ARC-50 is much less navigable > compared to the RC-50 but that's understandable. > > Here's a warning about a "zero day defect" in the firmware on the ARC-50. > Version 2.1 is the first one that has been shipping and this version will > not play nice with the BMK Battery Monitoring Kit from the same company. > The > glitch is subtle and not easily recognized but the "amp hours from full" > counter in the BMK counts incorrectly--by a factor of ten. > > Version 2.2 is now available but I believe Magnum has not issued a recall > of > the early version so some of the old firmware may be sitting on the > shelves. > I was not pleased to learn that Magnum had known about this problem--and > even had named it internally--but was continuing to ship product with the > buggy code. The company will upgrade the firmware for existing units but > they do not offer any hassle compensation for the installers. > > > > I have recently worked with the Magnum Mini Panel (R) and also with an > MPSL-version (bigger) control box. Here's a report that some of the > Mechanix > may find useful. Disclosure: I gain nothing from the switchgear choices > which are made by my fellow installers, so this is unbiased feedback. > > Both of these Magnum control boxes use Torx fasteners extensively so just > getting the front cover off requires a tool quest beforehand. At least > they're not tamperproof Torx but one still must wonder why obstacles must > be > erected. It's not like there are radioactive components inside. > > Both of the above ment
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling Fronius IG Plus 10.0 inverter
Esteemed Wrenches, There are other battery based inverters with Frequency Shift for use in AC coupled systems. Magnum MS4024PAE and MS4448PAE models shift the output frequency + >0.5Hz based upon battery voltage. On 24V models the set point is 0.2V above absorb voltage, and on 48V models it is 0.4V above absorb. It will protect the battery against overcharge by dropping the AC coupled Grid tied inverter offline. It can be used as a method of regulating AC coupled grid tied systems, but works best when there is a DC side diversion load controller. Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy 2111 W Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 bfa...@magnumenergy.com > -- > > Message: 3 > Date: Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:37:06 -0700 > From: "Mark Frye" > To: , "'RE-wrenches'" > > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling Fronius IG Plus 10.0 inverter > Message-ID: <0FAC7002A96948B598E5EF79FF3D77E6@marksdell> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > Gary, > > I have been looking at some AC coupled stuff lately. The "FSC" is > propriatary to SMA, Sunny Island to Sunny Boy. Pretty much anything else > you need something to sense the voltage of the battery bank so you can > open > a contactor on the AC line to the Fronius when the battery voltage gets > too > high. Once the voltage drops the contactor can close and bring the Fronius > back on line and then the 5-minute start up delay before it is feeding the > line again. > > Mark Frye > Berkeley Solar Electric Systems > 303 Redbud Way > Nevada City, CA 95959 > (530) 401-8024 > <http://www.berkeleysolar.com/> www.berkeleysolar.com ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling
Hi Larry, Magnum MS PAE inverters do indeed shift the inverter output frequency when the battery is full in order to disconnect grid-tied inverters used in AC coupled systems. It was designed to work in conjunction with a DC diversion load - which is recommended if the system is larger than a couple panels. Regards, Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy 2111 W Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 bfa...@magnumenergy.com > > Larry Brown wrote: > > Wrenches, > > > > After Hurricane Irene left a lot of people without power here in the > > Northeast, customers who have grid-tied systems are asking about some > > battery backup to power some essential loads. > > > > We have used Sunny Islands but they require either 2 Sunny Islands or > > a step up transformer to get 240 volts for the well pump. Schneider > > Electric (Xantrex XW) inverters look like they would work for this > > application and do 120/240 volt output as well and we have used these > > in off grid applications but not as AC coupled. I have considered > > Magnum because they also do 120/240 volts but they need battery > > diversion to ensure the batteries are not over charged. > > > > None of these systems are going to be rewired as a DC system so I am > > looking for any feed back on what others are using to AC couple to > > existing grid-tied systems to provide some battery backup. > > > > Thanks > > Larry > > > > Larry Brown > > Sun Mountain___ > > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & 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 ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling
Hi Allen, I'll try to describe the typical AC coupled system as well as I can. In such a system, a NON-grid tied battery based inverter (i.e. Magnum MS PAE) is connected as a backup inverter, only supplying AC power to consumer's loads when the grid is down. The micro inverter(s), or string inverters are connected on the load side of the inverters transfer switch, in parallel with the inverter output so they see AC grid power (when available) or inverter power when the grid goes down. The micro inverters / string inverters in such a system are called AC coupled inverters because the point of coupling is the AC system rather than the DC system. This allows the battery based inverter to provide the grid reference to the AC coupled grid-tied inverters when the utility power is not present - Backup mode. In that mode the inverter will form the reference for the grid tied inverters and any surplus power supplied by the grid-tied inverters that is not being consumed by AC loads will charge the battery of the inverter. In this inverter mode, once the battery is full, the inverter senses it and shifts the inverter frequency by .5hz to force the grid tied inverters off, keeping them from exporting power, thereby stopping the battery from overcharging. On a large system, a DC diversion load is usually added in parallel with the battery to reduce the on/off cycling of the grid tied inverters, which once the frequency shift happens, will try to reconnect every five minutes without it. Using the frequency shift method only is rather crude, because it essentially is a bang/bang controller - off or on. Its not a matter of our lack of confidence in the approach, the question is do you want the battery voltage swinging around by several volts. In a DC diversion mode system, the surplus energy from the grid tied inverters can be put to work as a useful dump load rather than just off lining several kw of PV. We had a white paper describing the AC couple mode. I'll see what we can do to make it more widely available, since the interest in such systems seems to be increasing. Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy 2111 W Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 bfa...@magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Allan Sindelar Sent: Friday, September 02, 2011 4:45 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling Brian, Could you speak a bit more to this, please? My understanding is that the need with a string (or, I suppose, micro-) inverter and a battery-based inverter is for a way to disconnect full batteries from being overcharged when the grid is down and sell is disabled. The SMA approach is to shift frequency to reduce string inverter output. I thought that the battery-based (Outback, Magnum) approach is to use a contactor to open string inverter AC based on voltage (crude, but effective). So what I understand is that the PAE inverters shift frequency: do you mean it simulates the shift that a Sunny Island would do? And if so, why is a diversion load recommended, and how is it configured into the system? And where can we read more about how this is designed to work? Thank you, Allan Allan Sindelar al...@positiveenergysolar.com <mailto:al...@positiveenergysolar.com> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. 3201 Calle Marie Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 505 424-1112 www.positiveenergysolar.com <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> On 9/2/2011 4:39 PM, Brian Faley wrote: Hi Larry, Magnum MS PAE inverters do indeed shift the inverter output frequency when the battery is full in order to disconnect grid-tied inverters used in AC coupled systems. It was designed to work in conjunction with a DC diversion load - which is recommended if the system is larger than a couple panels. Regards, Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy 2111 W Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 bfa...@magnumenergy.com ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling
Kent, Yes, that is the drawing of a typical installation. Regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy 2111 W Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 bfa...@magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Kent Osterberg Sent: Saturday, September 03, 2011 1:47 PM To: al...@positiveenergysolar.com; RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling Brian, Is this the drawing? Magnum ac coupled diagram <http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&sqi=2&ved=0CBYQFjAA&url= http%3A%2F%2Fwww.magnumenergy.com%2FLiterature%2FApplication%2520Info%2F Magnum%2520AC%2520Coupled%2520Line%2520Diagram%2520%281-May-2010%29.pdf& rct=j&q=%22ac%20coupled%22%20site%3Awww.magnumenergy.com&ei=EZBiTte-H4jn iAKNraDGCg&usg=AFQjCNG7FuyVaDx7YSWcJfqkh4TUkps4qA&cad=rja> from Google cache. Kent Osterberg Blue Mountain Solar ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
[RE-wrenches] Component Choices for MY RV - Apollo Solar?
Hi Jeff, Just a couple comments to answer your question about Magnum inverters. See below. > > Message: 6 > Date: Thu, 1 Jul 2010 06:09:35 -0700 > From: Jeff Clearwater > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] Component Choices for MY RV - Apollo Solar? > Message-ID: > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" ; format="flowed" > > Dear Colleagues, > > Well this one's for me! Nice to do solar for > oneself after installing for others my whole life! > > I'm putting together an small RV system in my > Sprinter Van that will also act as a small mobile > power platform. SUGGESTIONS? > > I'm considering the following: What would be better??? > > Batteries: 6 or 8 Optima Blue Tops (12 Volt > System - possibly 24V) (space is limited - it's a > 144" Sprinter Van) - Other sealed alternatives > you think are better? > > Modules: 2 Sanyo HIP-195BA19s (have already) & > 1 undetermined 90-120 watt module (all that will > fit!) (Anyone have an extra BP 790 or an > AE-90HE, AE-120HE??? or other 24" x 48" ish > module?) > > Charge Control: OB FlexMax 60 or should I wait > for the Midnight Classic? (A Sunsaver MPPT will > be used for the 100 watt module). (I'll also be > dumping extra power to hot water). Or Apollo if > I use the Apollo inverter below. > > Inverter: I'd like to eventually have 120/240 so > I could build from the RV. So question is: > > A) One Outback 2012 now and then add another for 240 VAC later OR > B) Apollo TSE2212 OR > C) Magnum MS 4024 (in which case I'd have to go > with a 24V pack and a 24>12 DC>DC for 12V loads) The Magnum MS4024 is a 120V inverter for AE and mobile applications. The MS4024AE is a 120/240 split phase inverter for AE applications. > > Monitoring: OB Mate (Flexnet?) or (Apollo ASNET if I go Apollo). > > QUESTIONS? > > 1) Opinions of the Blue Top vs ??? > > 2) Best RV inverter - Outback? Apollo? Magnum? > Experience? Vibration? Only the Outback offers > neutral switching in the transfer switch. (Does > the Magnum?). Magnum MS4024 (120V single phase output) has neutral/gnd switching in the transfer switch of the inverter. It is ETL listed to UL458 (mobile inverters) AND UL1741. The MS4024AE is a 120/240 split phase inverter intended for AE use (non-ground switched) It is ETL listed to UL1741. Weight is an issue as well as > space. MS4024 4kW inverter 55lbs > > 3) Charge Control - Is the Classic Shipping? > > Thanks for your time! > > Best, > > Jeff C. > > -- > ~~~ > Jeff Clearwater > Village Power Design > > Solar Design Consultation for the Commercial Sector > http://www.villagepower.com > goso...@villagepower.com > > NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer ? > http://www.nabcep.org/ > > Voice: 831-427-2799 > Fax: 413-825-0703 > 245 Dufour St > Santa Cruz, CA 95060 > ~ Regards, Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy, Inc 2211 West Casino Rd, Everett, WA 98204 425-353-8833 voice bfa...@magnumenergy.com www.magnumenergy.com ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] Wood boiler ignition issue
Hi Kris, A solution to try would be to add a motor run capacitor across the line at the boiler. 10uF-20uf range may improve the crossover distortion enough to allow the boiler ignitor to operate properly. Start with 10uF. Regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Kristopher Schmid Sent: Monday, March 26, 2012 11:51 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Wood boiler ignition issue Esteemed wrenches, I am assisting in troubleshooting a stand alone system with three stacked Magnum 4448 PAE inverters. The electric ignition of LP for the wood boiler will not fire from inverter power. As soon as we fire up the generator, the boiler ignites. Has anyone seen this before? Is there a solution? The boiler is a Central Boiler E-Classic 2400. Thanks in advance! -- Shine On! Kris Schmid Legacy Solar, LLC 864 Clam Falls Trail Frederic, WI 54837 715-653-4295 www.legacysolar.com NABCEP Certified PV Installer BSEE ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] Wood boiler ignition issue
Larry, Very likely it would work for the washer as well. Grainger (or another industrial supply company) has 10uF 370Vac oval can motor run caps for under 9 bucks. Regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry Crutcher,Starlight Solar Power Systems Sent: Tuesday, March 27, 2012 3:21 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Wood boiler ignition issue Brian, Would this also work for the Splendide washers? If not, have you come up with any solution yet? Larry Crutcher Starlight Solar Power Systems (928) 342-9103 On Mar 27, 2012, at 2:04 PM, Brian Faley wrote: Hi Kris, A solution to try would be to add a motor run capacitor across the line at the boiler. 10uF-20uf range may improve the crossover distortion enough to allow the boiler ignitor to operate properly. Start with 10uF. Regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Energy Remote Control
Hi Jeff, Wrenches, Magnum specifically designed the ARC (Advanced Remote Control) for off-grid applications so that all of the possible custom settings are available. We strongly recommend it for several reasons: 1) A customer without a remote is left with no information on inverter operation or troubleshooting. 2) Even if they have a simple question it results in a phone call either to the factory or dealer, leaving the customer feeling helpless. 3) It reduces service calls and provides piece of mind to the customer who now has the ability to see what is going on with their system. 4) It provides status information about their battery, AC/Gen input, inverter operating point and charging current. One of the main reasons for dealers not wanting to leave a remote is that customers have a tendency to "push buttons" and mess things up. The Magnum ARC has password protection for the SETUP button, plus it is much easier to navigate than other remotes so customers have a much easier time understanding the remote. The Magnum remote controls store the user settings internally in non-volatile memory. An inverter may be 'programmed' by plugging a remote into it - thus transferring the settings to the inverter. The remote may then be unplugged from the inverter and the custom settings remain in the inverter until DC power to the inverter is reset. Here are some of the features of the ARC 1) Has all the settings required for offgrid and backup power 2) All Auto Gen Start and Battery Monitor settings and displays are included 3) Password protected SETUP button for those desiring to lockout end users 4) FAVS button allows limited access to settings end users may need on occasion without a password 5) CTRL button allows manual control of a generator start/stop (AGS required Regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jeff Yago Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2012 7:09 AM To: al...@positiveenergysolar.com; 'RE-wrenches' Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Energy Remote Control We recently started stocking the Magnum Energy inverters and when we had a few installations requiring some adjustments to the default settings we were advised to order the Magnum Energy Remote Control. However, we then found out that this is a stripped down control and we needed to order the "Advanced" version of this control. Our plan was to keep this in the assembly area and use anytime we have a Magnum inverter that needs modification of the setpoints. However, after ordering all these different models and controls it appears some or all of these setpoints in the inverter go back to default if we un-plug the remote control. Is this correct?? We have many projects that either the client does not want the remote control, will not pay the extra cost for the remote control, or we do not want them attempting to change these settings. Is there a way to use the remote to make these changes and then ship out the inverter with the modifications without the needing to include the remote control. Thanks, Jeff Yago ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & 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
Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Energy Remote Control
Todd, The ARC is the remote control we recommend for use in off-grid systems. It also displays information from two additional accessory products: the BMK which is our battery monitor which reports state of charge, real time amps, amp hours in/out, and minimum/maximum DC volts; and the AGS which is our automatic generator starting product. http://magnumenergy.com/Products/productsBatteryMonitor-Combiner.htm <http://magnumenergy.com/Products/productsBatteryMonitor-Combiner.htm> http://magnumenergy.com/Products/productsAGS.htm <http://magnumenergy.com/Products/productsAGS.htm> regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of toddc...@finestplanet.com Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2012 10:59 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Energy Remote Control i have only done a couple of magnum off-grid systems with the standard programming interface, so it is news to me that there is another interface available. i need some clarification. this: 2) All Auto Gen Start and Battery Monitor settings and displays are included indicates there is a built in amp hour meter then similar to the trimetric? thanks, todd On Thursday, June 28, 2012 10:29am, "Brian Faley" said: Hi Jeff, Wrenches, Magnum specifically designed the ARC (Advanced Remote Control) for off-grid applications so that all of the possible custom settings are available. We strongly recommend it for several reasons: 1) A customer without a remote is left with no information on inverter operation or troubleshooting. 2) Even if they have a simple question it results in a phone call either to the factory or dealer, leaving the customer feeling helpless. 3) It reduces service calls and provides piece of mind to the customer who now has the ability to see what is going on with their system. 4) It provides status information about their battery, AC/Gen input, inverter operating point and charging current. One of the main reasons for dealers not wanting to leave a remote is that customers have a tendency to “push buttons” and mess things up. The Magnum ARC has password protection for the SETUP button, plus it is much easier to navigate than other remotes so customers have a much easier time understanding the remote. The Magnum remote controls store the user settings internally in non-volatile memory. An inverter may be ‘programmed’ by plugging a remote into it - thus transferring the settings to the inverter. The remote may then be unplugged from the inverter and the custom settings remain in the inverter until DC power to the inverter is reset. Here are some of the features of the ARC 1) Has all the settings required for offgrid and backup power 2) All Auto Gen Start and Battery Monitor settings and displays are included 3) Password protected SETUP button for those desiring to lockout end users 4) FAVS button allows limited access to settings end users may need on occasion without a password 5) CTRL button allows manual control of a generator start/stop (AGS required Regards, Brian Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com <http://www.magnumenergy.com> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jeff Yago Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2012 7:09 AM To: al...@positiveenergysolar.com; 'RE-wrenches' Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Energy Remote Control We recently started stocking the Magnum Energy inverters and when we had a few installations requiring some adjustments to the default settings we were advised to order the Magnum Energy Remote Control. However, we then found out that this is a stripped down control and we needed to order the “Advanced” version of this control. Our plan was to keep this in the assembly area and use anytime we have a Magnum inverter that needs modification of the setpoints. However, after ordering all these different models and controls it appears some or all of these setpoints in the inverter go back to default if we un-plug the remote control. Is this correct?? We have many projects that either the client does not want the remote control, will not pay the extra cost for the remote control, or we do not want them attempting to change these settings. Is there a way to use the remote to make these changes and then ship out the inverter with the modifications without the needing to include the remote control. Thanks, Jeff Yago
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled Magnum Issue
Hi Allan, In answer to your question: Yes, we're developing an AC side 4kW diversion mode controller which allows temperature compensated three stage charging for AC coupled inverter applications. It is currently in beta site testing. Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Allan Sindelar Sent: Thursday, March 07, 2013 2:41 PM To: RE-wrenches Cc: Support Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled Magnum Issue McAfee SiteAdvisor Warning This e-mail message contains potentially unsafe links to these sites: <http://www.siteadvisor.com/sites/athens-electric.com/?pip=false&premium =true&client_uid=446795512&client_ver=3.6.0.187&client_type=IEPlugin&sui te=true&aff_id=0&locale=en_us&ui=1&os_ver=6.1.1.0> http://athens-electric.com/ OK, a bit more: The line diagram I was referencing was dated 5/1/2010. A later diagram from a Powerpoint given at last year's NABCEP CE conference shows a "MagNet" AC diversion controller. It allows AC diversion loads and three-stage charging. No mention of temp comp. Magnum needs to weigh in on this. Allan Allan Sindelar al...@positiveenergysolar.com <mailto:al...@positiveenergysolar.com> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician Founder and Chief Technology Officer Positive Energy, Inc. 3209 Richards Lane (note new address) Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 505 424-1112 www.positiveenergysolar.com <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> On 3/7/2013 3:00 PM, Drake wrote: Hello Wrenches, I had an unexpected glitch in AC coupling a Magnum 4024 PAE inverter. The system utilizes AGM batteries, which (according to Concorde tech support) have a very strict upper voltage limit. The relay used to stop the current input from the direct grid tie inverter, when battery voltage is high, is controlled by a Morningstar Relay Driver. The relay driver is set to shut off the charge at 28.8 volts. The charger on the Magnum is set to charge the batteries to 28.6 volts. The plan was to be able to charge batteries from the Magnum without tripping the AC connection between the grid tie inverter to the grid. The Magnum should charge to 28.6 volts, 0.2 volts below the relay driver's programmed trigger point. There is one catch to using this approach. The Magnum inverter has a remote temperature sensor in the battery bank. The relay driver is not temperature corrected. Therefore, when the batteries are cold, the charging voltage goes up in the Magnum. This higher voltage trips the relay controlled by the driver, and disconnects the grid tie inverter from the grid. I've played with the voltage set points, but the charge voltage on the Magnum would be too low for good battery maintenance. If these were liquid electrolyte batteries, I'd crank up the voltage on the relay driver. Since they are AGM batteries, it doesn't seem like a good idea to do that. The work around for this at present is to; * Charge batteries at night in the winter * No problem is expected in the summer The batteries are in an insulated box in a shed connected to the house. The inside of the battery box has a screened hole that is supposed to allow heated air into the box. This vent doesn't keep the batteries warm enough to prevent the problem. Is there a temperature sensitive, voltage controlled relay or diver available? Has anyone used a temperature bulb with the relay driver in a way that could solve this problem? Has anyone else come up against this issue, and if so, what was your solution? Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC OH License 44810 CO License 3773 NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer 740-448-7328 http://athens-electric.com/ ___ 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 <>___ List s
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled Magnum Issue
Yes Larry. We are. Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry Crutcher,Starlight Solar Power Systems Sent: Thursday, March 07, 2013 3:36 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled Magnum Issue ANDyou are still working on that stand-alone, programable, temperature compensated battery chargerright??? Thank you, Larry Crutcher Starlight Solar Power Systems On Mar 7, 2013, at 4:07 PM, Brian Faley wrote: Hi Allan, In answer to your question: Yes, we're developing an AC side 4kW diversion mode controller which allows temperature compensated three stage charging for AC coupled inverter applications. It is currently in beta site testing. Brian Faley Chief Engineer Magnum Energy Inc. 2211 West Casino Rd Everett, WA 98204 Ph 425-353-8833 www.magnumenergy.com ___ 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
