Pro Star vs. SunSaver?

Snailster
Snailster Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭
in General Solar Power Topics #1
What is the difference inbetween these two charge controllers, besides the amp rating?:

1/ the Morningstar ProStar:
http://store.solar-electric.com/pros15solcha.html

2/ the Morningstar SunSaver:
http://store.solar-electric.com/ss-20l.html

I can see the SunSAver can operate in hazardous environment (gas station).
Is the ProStar sealed/weatherproof?

Thanks!
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Comments

  • homan7
    homan7 Registered Users Posts: 7 ✭
    #2
    Re: Pro Star vs. SunSaver?
    Snailster wrote: »
    What is the difference inbetween these two charge controllers, besides the amp rating?:

    1/ the Morningstar ProStar:
    http://store.solar-electric.com/pros15solcha.html

    2/ the Morningstar SunSaver:
    http://store.solar-electric.com/ss-20l.html

    I can see the SunSAver can operate in hazardous environment (gas station).
    Is the ProStar sealed/weatherproof?

    Thanks!

    No, the ProStar is not sealed/weatherproof.
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  • Snailster
    Snailster Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭
    #3
    Re: Pro Star vs. SunSaver?

    Thanks, Homan7!
    They seem to be similar in what they offer.
    In the case of the ProStar they mention "tropicalization".

    I endedup getting the SunSaver, cheaper and I do not see
    much difference otherwise.
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  • Snailster
    Snailster Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭
    #4
    Re: Pro Star vs. SunSaver?

    Another difference: No temperature sensor hookup for the SunSaver.
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  • Snailster
    Snailster Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭
    #5
    Re: Pro Star vs. SunSaver?

    From what I've figured out so far, the ProStar is a bit more advanced: it can equalize, the SunSaver does not seem to be able to do that. Battery selection for the SunSaver is "sealed" or "flooded", whereas the ProStar has "sealed", "gel", "flooded". The ProStar can do both 12V and 24V. There is probably more.
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  • homan7
    homan7 Registered Users Posts: 7 ✭
    #6
    Re: Pro Star vs. SunSaver?

    Unfortunately, I can only give you info regarding the ProStar as that is what I'm using. The ProStar also comes in a 30A flavor that can handle 48V as well. This series also can come with a digital display feature as well. I'm not sure if the PS-15 comes with the display.

    It looks like you've already made up your mind on the controller. Do you have panels or batteries yet? If not, then before you do (I'm actually suprised this hasn't been hit upon by others already) try and scope out what your goals are for your setup. Feel free to list there here on the forum and someone will be happy to help make suggestions on what path to follow.
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  • Snailster
    Snailster Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭
    #7
    Re: Pro Star vs. SunSaver?

    Got the batterires, the PV array etc. has been ordered. I went through the deliberation process with the help of the Forum. After a bried research I had chosen the SunSaver because it seems to do most of what I need (with the exception of equalization, which I found out after I placed the order). I can still equalize using a genset. Overall no big deal and will suit my needs for now.

    I did contemplate going the MPPT route but in my particular case it did not offer much in terms of ease of expansion, and the increased efficiency/decreased PV array wire gauge was not worth the price (given my needs & usage pattern).
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