MidNite Solar Barcelona Charge Controller

Description

The Barcelona is MidNite Solar’s largest charge controller, managing up to 600Vdc from solar panels on each of the two MPPTs (Maximum Power Point Trackers). Each tracker is capable of charging the batteries with 100A continuous, for a possible 200A total going to the battery bank. 

This controller can work with many battery chemistries like LiFePO4 and Lead-Acid. It has an output range of 29V-65Vdc and is intended for 48V systems. If the Barcelona Breaker Box is added later, or is already installed as the Pre-Wired version, the remote trip circuit will open the battery breaker if the voltage exceeds 68Vdc.

MidNite’s Barcelona charge controller utilizes MPPT technology to monitor and adjust the solar panel’s voltage and current levels to maximize incoming power regardless of changes in sunlight or weather conditions. 

The MPPT’s operating input voltage is between 185V and 585V with a startup voltage of 220V. This means the unit continues using solar power even if changing weather conditions reduce the solar panel output.

The Option Board adds connections for important security features including rapid shutdown, arc fault sensors, and ground fault sensors. The system also includes LED lights that quickly indicate the status of any connected and enabled sensors. 

The main communication board includes CANBUS communications and the Battery Temperature Sensor connections. The Breaker Trip Circuits also connect here, allowing the breakers to trip remotely if the battery voltage gets too high.

The Barcelona communicates with other MidNite Solar products that utilize MidNite CANBUS circuits, like the MNGP2, a built-in graphics and programming module. Once the first unit is configured, additionally connected CANBUS MidNite Solar units adopt the settings. If a unit is set up under a different system and integrated into the primary system, the startup menu will ask from which system to adopt settings.

The two Auxiliary circuits output 10.5Vdc at 200mA, which is enough to power an external relay on each circuit. There are 21 modes to choose from, though only one can be selected at a time for each Aux circuit. These modes include settings for the SOC%, the vent fan, float, battery discharge, battery temperature, a system generator, and more. 

The MNBLE UPDATE app is available for both Apple and Android devices and is used to install firmware updates through Bluetooth. The app checks for updates and downloads them upon request, applying them to the Hawke’s Bay once the smart device is in Bluetooth range.

In addition to these features, the Barcelona optionally connects to the Whiz Bang Jr and the Barcelona Breaker Box to provide your solar system with additional precision and security.

The Whiz Bang Jr attaches to a shunt and provides additional monitoring of all current flowing both into and out of the battery, resulting in an accurate SOC% (state of charge). The Barcelona uses this information to maintain and optimize battery life. 

The Barcelona Pre-Wired includes the optional Barcelona Breaker Box. The Breaker Box provides additional security for the system by tripping the PV and battery breakers built into the Breaker Box. This protects the charge controller and the battery bank during events involving excess power, such as if batteries exceed 68Vdc, if the PV breaker is on when the battery breaker is turned on, and if firmware updates begin. 

The Breaker Box meets NEC’s safety requirements for overcurrent protection and dc disconnects. It exceeds expectations by adding a ground bus bar to ground multiple components in the solar system, including extra surge protection devices like the MidNite Solar SPD. 

The prewired version comes pre-assembled onto the Backplate with breakers installed and internal wiring connected, making it ready for installation right out of the box.

Installation is made easy with MidNite’s verbal communication feature. Settings allow for off (no voice), communication of errors only, communication of errors and warnings, menu messages when menus are accessed for the first time, or all messages always. Settings also allow verbal communication quiet hours, so the Barcelona will only talk during certain times of the day.

Designed and manufactured in Arlington, WA, this American made charge controller will reliably charge a 48V battery bank as part of a solar powered system. Check out the Recommended Accessories listed below. These have been chosen as optimized pairings with the Barcelona charge controller, though many products are compatible.