ETI Solar Controller

[bborzell]

While watching the most recent ETI video showcasing their electrical power offerings, I noted that the Victron MPPT controller Karl was holding was a 100/20.

Since our trailer came with a 30 amp GoPower controller, it seemed odd to me that changing from a PWM to an MPPT controller (generally a good thing) would result in dialing back the amp rating by 1/3.

Then, I rewatched the video and this time noticed a brief window insert that said that, starting in 2023, ETI would be installing Victron 100/30 controllers. Which begs the question, why?

If the 380 W solar package was appropriately matched to a 30 amp PWM (which seems to be the conventional wisdom), then what logic (I am guessing cost) would have led to down rating the desirable switch to a Victron MPPT?

I think that owners of 2022 Escapes who received the 100/20 Victron controller might have gotten caught in an ETI brain fart moment.

[Ops]

Originally Posted by bborzell

... ETI brain fart moment.

Brain Fart = (noun) politically incorrect term for cerebral flatulence
A condition frequently experienced during conversation and in mid-sentence.
A condition suffered by seniors similar to entering a room and wondering why.
Often heard during business meetings or during election cycles.

[Perry Butler]

Originally Posted by bborzell

Then, I rewatched the video and this time noticed a brief window insert that said that, starting in 2023, ETI would be installing Victron 100/30 controllers. Which begs the question, why?

If the 380 W solar package was appropriately matched to a 30 amp PWM (which seems to be the conventional wisdom), then what logic (I am guessing cost) would have led to down rating the desirable switch to a Victron MPPT?

I think that owners of 2022 Escapes with the 100/20 Victron controller might have gotten caught in an ETI brain fart moment.

We have a Victron 100/20 for our portable 100 watt panel and a Victron 100/30 for the 465 watts on our roof. The wire buss on the 100/20 is a joke and I had to support the 10g wires to keep them in place. The wire buss on the 100/30 and has no problems keeping the wires in place.

Of course both Victron solar controllers communicate with Victron’s BMV-712 for an integrated system.

Personally, because of the too small buss I would not get anther 100/20, but spend the extra money for the 100/30.

Enjoy,

Perry