AZ-225 Install Manual

Section
7
Power Connection to the Tracker Controller
7.1) MAKING A DECISION ABOUT POWERING THE WATTSUN CONTROLLER
NOTE: The azimuth-tracking limit switches are preset at the factory to accommodate the maximum
range of East-West azimuth tracking.
OPTION 1: Array Technologies recommends that you power your Wattsun Tracker Controller from a battery
bank or grid-tied power source. The tracker will return to the East at sunset and the tracker has 270 degrees
of azimuth tracking available. The dip-switch, sensor override features built into the controller are always
available when you have constant power.
OPTION 2: (Discouraged with the AZ-SeriesTrackers!) If you power the controller from the array, the
tracker returns East in the morning. The tracker is limited to only 180 degrees of azimuth tracking arc. You
will have to reset the Azimuth Motor limit switch cams to reduce the East-West travel. The dip-switch,
sensor override features built into the controller will only be available during the day.
The diagram shows the hourly sun position for 40 Degrees North Latitude. During the winter, a tracker that
is powered from an array returns in the morning and captures nearly all the 117-degree azimuth-tracking arc.
However, during the summer, 242-degree azimuth-tracking arc is available. A tracker that is powered from
an array only captures a 180-degree portion of that arc, and proportionally less power too - even if the
tracker limits are set to their extremes.
7.2) On most Azimuth Trackers, the controller is already mounted to the drive head at the factory. The remote
sensor and azimuth motor connections are already pre-wired and tested.
Your installer should provide the appropriate fusing or DC breaker to protect any long wire runs and
to disconnect to the controller power input.
26