Morningstar TriStar TS-60 Charge Control

The TriStar TS-60 charge controller from MorningStar is a three-function controller providing reliable solar battery charging, load control or diversion regulation. This controller operates in only one of these modes at a time but two or more controllers may be used to provide multiple functions. It features 3 stage pulse width modulated (PWM) charging when used as a solar charging regulator.

The TriStar can be used with 12, 24, or 48 volt systems with up to 60 amps charge current. It is UL listed charge set points are fully adjustable. It can be mounted on an OutBack PSDC or PS2DC DC box using the mounting bracket for the OutBack MX60. Or it can be mounted on a Xantrex or OutBack box using 2 chase nipples through knockouts on the bottom of the charge control. This method is used often but I avoid mounting with chase nipples if at all possible. I think it looks terrible to see a charge controller sticking out of the top of a DC enclosure, and its not the most secure mounting style. But it can be done if absolutely needed.

The cover is held on with 4 small phillips head screws. With the cover removed you can hook up the wires and there is plenty of room to work with. The terminals are large and hold the wire securely, the lug for the ground wire is mounted well and accepts a large wire, unlike Xantrex C Series which only have a small green ground screw.. There is a small terminal block for installing the optional remote temperature sensor (RTS) leads. There is a RJ11 jack for installing the optional digital display cover which has a display to see the actual volts and amps coming in from your solar array.

Overall the MorningStar TriStar TS-60 is a great charge control, that is well built and easy to hook up thanks to the above mentioned features that I have found useful when working with them.

If I had to buy a new PWM charge control I would buy the MorningStar TriStar.

My Overall Rating 9\10

MSRP $219.99

Buy one now at the Alternative Energy Store

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