Upgrade from 130W to 160W/200W?

[lhuschke]

Hello

I need to replace my current 130W panel. I'm looking at a 160W panel or 200w and want to know if my control unit can handle this increase. I just purchased the van and can't find much info on the unit itself so thought one of you would know the capabilities of the unit.

The unit is a Specialty Concepts, Inc Mark PV Controller. I only have one panel.

Thank you.

Lars

[Thorne]

I've been going through something similar with my used 2011 SMB Sprinter, and found that contacting the manufacturer is the best bet -- and they can usually provide a manual in pdf format.

More info is always a big help and saves everyone from playing The Spanish Inquisition.

Why do you only have one panel, and why replace it rather than add another? -- most folks install them in pairs. And why only a 30w jump to 160w? Remember that you rarely ever get the full rated power of a panel for a number of reasons, and may need more power in the future.

[lhuschke]

Thanks for the reply.

I did talk to SMB and they had all the info I needed. You are correct, I can increase my panel count up to 3 panels for the control unit I have. The van came with only one panel so I'm first going to replace the panel and see how it performs for what we need. If we need more juice then I'll add another panel.