SUNKEEPER CONTROLLER

Morningstar's SunKeeper™ solar controller provides a low cost regulated output directly from the solar module to maximize battery life in small solar power applications.

Morningstar’s SunKeeper solar controller provides a low cost regulated output directly from the solar module to
maximize battery life in small solar power applications. The SunKeeper is epoxy encapsulated and rated for outdoor use. By mounting directly to the module junction box and wiring through the junction box knockout, the connection is weather-proof. This eliminates the need for an additional housing for the controller.
The SunKeeper is available in a 6 amp or 12 amp version (both at 12 volts DC). To withstand the high temperatures at the solar module, the controller has been designed using extremely efficient power electronics and is rated to 70°C. The SunKeeper is also certified for use in Class 1, Division 2 hazardous locations, making it an ideal controller for solar powered oil/gas applications.

Key Features and Benefits:

High Reliability

Rated to 70°C to operate in high temperatures at the solar module. More reliable than controllers mounted inside the junction box. Uses very low on-resistance power MOSFET’s. No need to re-rate.


Outdoor Rated

ETL approved for outdoor use without an additional enclosure. Rugged IP65, UV resistant case. Epoxy encapsulated printed circuit board and watertight connection to the module junction box.

Extensive Electronic Protections

Fully protected against reverse polarity, short circuit, overcurrent, lightning and transient surges, high temperature and reverse current at night.


Longer Battery Life

Series PWM with 3 stage charging: bulk, PWM regulation and float. Includes temperature compensation at the controller or alternatively at the battery when using optional remote temperature sensor. Able to charge a zero voltage battery.

Rated for Hazardous Locations

Specifically designed for solar power systems in the oil/gas industry.
Approved for use in Class 1, Division 2, Groups A,B,C,D.

More Information

Bi-color LED is easy to read from the ground when the solar module is pole-mounted. Indicates solar charging, regulation, normal nighttime operation and any controller or system faults.

Easy to Install

Fits standard half inch conduit knockout (PG 13.5, M20) in module junction box. Quickly fastens with included locknut. Wires have fork connectors for easy connection to solar module terminals.

Model Numbers

SK-12, SK-6

Electrical Specifications

  •  Rated Solar Input:                                   SK-6 6 amps
  •                                                                   SK-12 12 amps
  • Nominal System Voltage                         12 Volts
  • Min. Battery Voltage                                0 Volts
  • Max. Solar Voltage                                  30 Volts
  • Self-Consumption                                   Charging...7 mA
  •                                                                   Night ........2 mA
  • Voltage Accuracy                                  ± 150 mV

 

Battery Charging

  • Regulation Voltage                                 14.1 Volts (at 25°C)
  • Float Voltage                                          13.7 Volts (at 25°C)
  • Type of Charging                                    Series PWM
  •                                                                   3 stage: bulk, PWM and float

Temperature Compensation (3 choices)     

  • Reading temp at controller –30 mV / °C
  • Attaching remote temp sensor –30 mV / °C
  • Disable temp comp Defaults to 25°C

Ability to Charge a Zero Voltage Battery

  • Electronic Protections
  • Reverse Polarity
  • Short Circuit
  • Overcurrent
  • Lightning and Transient Surges
  • High Temperature
  • Reverse Current at Night

Environmental Specifications

  • Operating Temperatures – 40°C to +70°C
  • Humidity 100%
  • ropicalization Encapsulated in epoxy
  •  UV resistant plastic enclosure
  •   Conduit connection with rubber gasket seal


Mechanical Specifications

  • Dimensions 99 x 51 x 13 mm, (3.9 x 2.0 x 0.5 inches)
  • Weight 0.11 kg / 0.25 lbs
  • Enclosure IP65
  • Fitting to Module J-box PG 13.5, M20, 1/2 inch conduit
  • Wire Size 2.0 mm2 (#14 AWG)
  • Wire Terminations #8 fork connectors