Atkinson PVCM40D vs newer MPT (PVCM40D-MPT)version

[DLDINS]

The solar controller in my 2018 Globetrotter is the Atkinson PVCM40D-SE2 unit with is a really simple controller that just basically closes a relay to connect the solar panels to the battery if the voltage is below a voltage threshold.

This is obviously pretty low end since the panel voltage is pulled down to the voltage of the battery and there is nothing to optimize anything for lighting conditions.

Atkinson has a PMT version of this called the PVCM40D-MPT. They call the control MULTI POINT TRACKING not MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking). They do say is uses PWM regulation.

Anybody evaluated this unit? It has the advantage of a easy "swap-out" of the origninal factory unit and the display panel is the same so you can keep that too. It also fits in the same location as the original controller that came with my Globetrotter. Disadvantage it is expensive ($167) so you could buy two after market MPPT controllers vs this one and have MPPT control on 2 sets of panels.

If someone has used this unit please comment.

[rowiebowie]

I upgraded from the stock Atkinson to a $109 Victron 75/15. Not that hard if I could do it. I can monitor the Victron via it's built in bluetooth. That meant I no longer needed the wall monitor, so I re-purposed the CAT5 cable that went to it for added USB charge port. It runs off the "Load" connection on the Victron.