MidNite Solar The KID MPPT Solar Charge Controller for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries, DC Load Controller with Automatic Genstart

MidNite's The KID MPPT Solar Charge Controller

MidNite Solar’s American-made products are designed to eliminate common pain points found in energy systems. MidNite’s the KID is a prime example of this MidNite philosophy. It’s a UL 1741 30A charge controller designed for mobile applications, and it’s compatible with many battery chemistries and voltages. Its unique features enable a customizable experience for every user.

A single KID charge controller accepts only one solar panel array. When more power is needed, it’s possible to stack the KID for increased charging capabilities. Systems with multiple KID charge controllers need a six-conductor phone cable for communication between the units, and all KID charge controllers communicate in either Twin Mode or Sync Mode.

In Twin Mode, two KIDs act as one charge controller with up to 60A charging. This is useful when a solar array generates more watts than one KID can output to the battery bank. In Sync Mode, it’s possible to wire up to 12 KIDs in parallel. This is ideal when charging batteries from multiple arrays and the arrays are different sizes.

In solar systems with batteries and a generator, it’s useful to charge the batteries from the generator if weather prevents the solar panels from producing enough power. The KID monitors the battery voltage and automatically starts a connected generator with two-wire AGS (Automatic Genstart). 

AGS is included in the initial installation and requires no extra wires or voltage sensing features. The KID runs the generator according to preset minimum and maximum runtimes. If the KID notices that the battery is fully charged before reaching the maximum runtime, it automatically turns off the generator. This enables the batteries to reach full charge even on cloudy days without wasting generator fuel. 

When the solar array produces more power than the batteries need, the KID diverts this power to running connected loads. This allows users to get the most out of their array and makes sure the solar system is as efficient as possible. The end user sets the voltages at which power starts and stops being diverted to loads. Other load options are available, and some of them run directly off the battery, as is the case with the Night Light function.

It’s common for mobile energy systems to use a night light. Different charge controllers have different features for measuring daylight, and some of them cannot differentiate between sunrise and a street light. The KID includes settings to adjust for this issue. Settings adjust the KID’s sensitivity to light, which allows it to differentiate between true sunrise and other light sources.

The KID works with MidNite’s Whiz Bang Jr. and a shunt to calculate the battery bank’s SOC% (state of charge). The AUX menu allows users to enter the battery bank’s information so the Whiz Bang Jr. can accurately measure the amps going to the batteries and estimate the remaining time to full charge.

Choose MidNite Solar’s The KID for a solar charge controller designed for mobile applications. Install it in a boat, RV, or off-grid cabin for a reliable, American-made product.