This is a Python module for interacting with the Tracer-2210RN solar charge controller via serial. It should also work with other charge controllers that can use the MT-5 remote monitoring accessory.
The RM (remote monitoring) port should be connected to a 3.3V TTL serial port, such as this SparkFun adapter board. It should be wired as follows. Ethernet wire colors correspond to the T-568B standard found on most common patch cables:
| Charger pin | Ethernet color | Function | FTDI adapter pin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | white/blue | Transmitted data | 5 (RXD) |
| 6 | green | Received data | 4 (TXD) |
| 7 or 8 | brown or white/brown | Ground | 1 (Ground) |
Basic usage is as follows:
In [1]: import tracermppt
In [2]: t = tracermppt.Tracer("/dev/ttyUSB2")
In [3]: t.read_realtime()
Out[3]:
{'battery_full': True,
'battery_full_voltage': 14.27,
'battery_overload': False,
'battery_temperature': 31,
'battery_voltage': 14.31,
'charge_current': 0.68,
'charging': True,
'load_current': 0.16,
'load_on': True,
'load_short': False,
'over_discharge': False,
'overdischarge_voltage': 11.15,
'overload': False,
'pv_voltage': 16.26}
You can also switch the output on and off:
In [4]: t.set_load_on(False)
Out[4]: {'load_on': False}
In [5]: t.set_load_on(True)
Out[5]: {'load_on': True}
The command for setting the timer parameters is not currently implemented, as my application does not require it.