The DFRobot Solar Power Manager for 12V Lead-Acid Battery is a dedicated PWM solar charge controller designed for small off-grid solar systems that use 12V SLA, AGM, gel, or VRLA lead-acid battery banks. Its 3-stage charging algorithm (bulk, absorption, float) maximizes battery lifespan by preventing both overcharging and sulfation. With a 12V load output and a 5V USB output, it can simultaneously power 12V DC devices and USB microcontrollers from the same battery and solar panel combination.
Specifications
- Battery Type: 12V Lead-Acid (SLA, VRLA, AGM, Gel)
- Solar Input Voltage: Up to 28V open-circuit
- Charging Algorithm: PWM with 3-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float)
- Max Charging Current: Up to 3A
- Output: 12V load output + 5V USB output
- Protection: Over-charge, over-discharge, reverse polarity, short-circuit
- Connector: Screw terminals for battery and solar panel; USB-A load output
- LED Indicators: Solar input, charge status, load status
Key Features
- Specifically designed for 12V lead-acid batteries (SLA, AGM, gel, VRLA)
- 3-stage PWM charging (bulk → absorption → float) extends battery life
- Max 3A charging current suitable for 10W–40W solar panels
- 12V load output for 12V DC devices + 5V USB for microcontrollers
- LED indicators display solar harvesting, charging status, and load status in real time
- Reverse polarity protection prevents module damage during installation
- Compact controller suitable for small off-grid solar systems
- Compatible with all 12V lead-acid chemistry variants
Applications
- Small off-grid solar systems with 12V lead-acid battery storage
- Solar-powered outdoor lighting with SLA batteries
- Remote IoT gateways using 12V AGM battery banks
- Caravan and boat auxiliary battery solar charging
- Emergency backup power systems with solar top-up
- Solar shed and cabin electrification with lead-acid storage
- Agricultural pump control with solar-charged SLA
- Educational off-grid solar system demonstrations
Package Includes
- 1x DFRobot Solar Power Manager for 12V Lead-Acid Battery
- Note: Solar panel and 12V lead-acid battery sold separately
FAQ
- Q: What is the maximum solar panel size? A: Up to 40W (12V panel). Open-circuit voltage should not exceed 28V.
- Q: Can I use a 20Ah lead-acid battery? A: Yes — at 3A max charge current, a 20Ah battery will take 6–8 hours to fully charge in good sunlight.
- Q: Does float charging prevent overcharging? A: Yes — the 3-stage algorithm switches to float (maintenance charge) when the battery reaches full charge.
- Q: Will it charge AGM batteries correctly? A: Yes — AGM batteries are lead-acid type and the 3-stage algorithm is compatible. Some controllers have an AGM mode switch.
- Q: Can I connect 12V loads while charging? A: Yes — the 12V load output supplies power from the battery while solar charging continues simultaneously.