MidNite Solar Classic Charge Controller, Solar, Wind, and Hydro Input up to 150V-250V, Lithium and Lead-Acid Battery Charger

MidNite Classic Charge Controller Overview

MidNite’s Classic Charge Controller is one of MidNite’s original charge controllers using MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology. It’s compatible with wind, hydro, or solar power and can charge nearly any battery chemistry from 12V to 72V. This American made charge controller was engineered in Arlington, WA for longevity and durability. Choose an operation voltage of 150V, 200V, or 250V.

MPPTs automatically adjust the incoming voltage and amperage to maximize power absorption. Wind, solar, and hydro settings monitor the system slightly differently, and all settings are adjustable. Once set, the system continuously monitors and adjusts incoming power according to the defined configuration.

MidNite designed the different versions of the Classic Charge Controller to compensate for variations in panel VOC due to temperature changes and to compensate for the VOC drop that occurs when the charge controller is installed farther from the solar array. Distances shorter than 100ft work well with the Classic 150, distances between 100ft and 180ft should use the Classic 200, and distances farther than 180ft should use the Classic 250.

Installation requires a few screws to mount the Classic Charge Controller on the side or front of a MidNite E-Panel. Several MidNite E-Panels integrate with the Classic, and Classic installations without a MidNite E-Panel can attach directly to a plywood wall or other sturdy structure.

The variations of hydro, wind, and solar make this charge controller ideal for many alternative energy systems. The SL version includes simplified menus for solar systems only. The complete version includes hydro, wind, and solar options, and it features additional arc fault detection, a battery temperature sensor, and Ethernet capabilities. Classic systems with wind or hydro require the additional MidNite Clipper.

Both the complete and the SL versions include ground fault detection and HyperVOC, which increases the charge controller’s DC input limits. Without HyperVOC, the DC input limit is 150V, 200V, or 250V. HyperVOC adds the battery voltage to these limits, increasing a 48V system to 198V, 248V, or 298V respectively. However, it’s not possible to use the Classic for charging when operating in HyperVOC. Once the DC input falls back into the normal range, it can charge once more.

The Classic includes settings for both system modification and user accessibility. System settings adjust the absorb, float, and equalization modes, make it possible to skip days if the system is not in use, can adjust for various DC inputs, and more. Accessibility settings make it possible to control when LED indicators illuminate and how much information the talking interface provides.

Two AUX ports enable additional inputs or outputs. These ports can activate a fan, control the MidNite Clipper, activate a light, or perform other functions based on variables like solar array voltage, float status, and battery voltage.

For additional battery monitoring capabilities, include MidNite’s Whiz Bang Jr. This small device attaches to a standard 50mV/500A shunt to provide additional battery information, enable end-amps termination, and activate other capabilities.

The Classic records system data for up to 380 days, making it easy to review past data. The Classic reports daily kWh, float time, maximum power output, and other data. It also records data every hour, including input voltage, power, and battery voltage. This data enables system monitoring and assists in troubleshooting.

While it’s possible to combine almost any number of Classic charge controllers, MidNite recommends a maximum number of 20 Classics in a single system. When combined, these charge controllers can communicate with a Follow-Me setting. Follow-Me sends a signal to the next charge controller in line to determine if it has reached a specific state, such as float. Once a single charge controller reaches the designated state, all charge controllers also switch to that state.

It’s possible to monitor the Classic remotely with MidNite’s MNGP or with MidNite’s online monitoring software. This free online portal makes it possible to view real time information or historical information for maintenance and troubleshooting. As an online tool, this option enables remote monitoring from anywhere in the world.

Firmware updates require a Windows computer and a standard USB to USB-Mini-B cable. MidNite designed the firmware update process to protect systems. The process includes safety features which prevent faulty or incomplete updates and make it easy to restart the update after an interruption.

Choose MidNite’s Classic Charge Controller for an off-grid location using wind, solar, or hydro. Select the SL version for simplified settings designed for solar only systems.