How much solar can the BCDC Alpha handle?

This information is applicable to the following BCDC Alpha chargers:

BCDC Alpha 25A DC Battery Charger (BCDC12025B)
BCDC Alpha 50A DC Battery Charger (BCDC12050B)
BCDC Alpha50 R DC Battery Charger (BCDC12050R)

WHAT IS THE SOLAR INPUT VOLTAGE RANGE?

The BCDC Alpha chargers have a solar input voltage specification range of 9– 48 volts.

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM SOLAR ARRAY SIZE?

500W of input power for the 25A model
1000W of input power for the 50A model

CAN I CONNECT MORE THAN THE WATTAGE LISTED ABOVE?

No, it is not recommended. Exceeding the maximum solar array wattage can result in a significant short circuit current, potentially causing wiring and fusing issues. Additionally, rapid voltage fluctuations, such as those experienced when driving through shaded areas, can reduce charging efficiency and negatively impact product performance. To ensure optimal performance, it is important to adhere to the maximum solar array specifications.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CONNECT AN INPUT OF HIGHER THAN 48V?

Exposing the BCDC Alpha to voltages outside the specifications of the unit (>48V) it can result in accelerated product life and, worst-case scenario, for excessive voltage it could result in irreparable internal damage.

HOW TO CONNECT A SINGLE SOLAR PANEL?

Typical installation of a single portable solar panel would incorporate a solar dedicated Anderson Plug to connect the solar panel.

Note: For applications including the battery sensor (BSEN500), ensure the ground is made to the ‘GND’ side of the shunt.

ARE THERE ANY BENEFITS OF HAVING ADDITIONAL SOLAR PANELS?

Yes, having additional solar panels means you have access to more available power during early and late periods of the day when solar conditions are compromised due to the angle of the sun. This results in more charging ability over a 24-hour period.

Note: You can utilise additional solar panels up to the maximum solar array size specification.

HOW TO CONNECT MULTIPLE SOLAR PANELS?

The BCDC Alpha can draw power from multiple solar panels in large solar arrays, which can be configured in a combination of series and parallel connections. For correct operation and best performance of the system, choose a solar panel specification and configuration to ensure that:

The open circuit voltage of the array is below the maximum solar input voltage range (<48V). of the BCDC Alpha at minimum ambient temperature.
The total rated power is below the maximum array size specification of the BCDC Alpha.
All solar panels are the same.
When connecting multiple solar strings in parallel each string must have the same number of solar panels.
All solar panels are pointing in the same direction.

HOW TO CONNECT 1 TO 2 SOLAR STRINGS IN PARALLEL?

When connecting 1 or 2 solar strings in parallel, it is important the solar connection meets the following requirements:

The solar panel ground is connected to a common ground point (i.e. vehicle chassis).
The solar cable gauge is capable of carrying the combined short circuit capacity of the string(s).

Note: For applications including the battery sensor (BSEN500), ensure the ground is made to the ‘GND’ side of the shunt.

HOW TO CONNECT MORE THAN 2 SOLAR STRINGS IN PARALLEL?

When connecting more than 2 solar strings in parallel, it is important the solar connection meets requirements listed above as well as the following:

The solar panel ground is connected to a common ground point (i.e. common ground busbar connected to vehicle chassis).
Solar combiners, a positive busbar or fuse box are used to connect all panels in an array.
Fuses are installed to protect against overcurrent faults and are appropriately sized for the panel's maximum short circuit current capacity. Each fuse rating must be no more than 1.5× the short circuit current capacity of the string it is protecting.
The solar cable gauge to the main unit is capable of carrying the combined short circuit capacity of the solar panel array, regardless of the maximum solar current rating of the Main Unit.
Busbars and fuse holders must be suitable for the environmental conditions of their mounting locations.

Note: For applications including the battery sensor (BSEN500), ensure the ground is made to the ‘GND’ side of the shunt.