Reference design for a solar charger controller with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) functionality that can charge a 12V battery pack and drive up to 15 LEDs in series.
Solar Power Street Light Controller
Have you ever thought of building a self-sufficient street light that doesn’t require any additional power source? Then look no further, this reference design from Texas Instruments (TI) can help you build a high-efficiency solar-powered street light. The reference design is of a 12A Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charge controller with a 700mA LED driver. It has an efficiency of over 90% for the LED driver and over 95% for the MPPT charger. The street light reference design is capable of driving up to 15 LEDs in series as it can provide a continuous current of 700mA. The design is made for a 12V Li-Ion battery, but with minor modifications, it can be used for a 12V Lead-acid battery or a 24V Li-Ion battery system by just changing the MOSFETs.
The reference design can effectively convert power from a solar system with MPPT, safely charging various battery chemistry types and accurately controlling power flow. It combines safety features such as reverse battery protection and comes with a built-in battery profile for a lead acid battery, thus, reducing the BoM components and cost. Furthermore, this design can speed up the development phase resulting in a faster time to market.
Features of Solar Street Light Reference Design
• High efficiency: >95% for MPPT charger and >90% for LED driver.
• Supports 15VDC – 22VDC Input Voltage Range.
• Built in charge profile for 12V Pb-acid battery.
• Flexible design adapts to 24V panels by only changing to 60V MOSFETs.
• Capable of driving upto 15 LEDs with 700mA current.
• Board Form Factor: 100 mm x 45 mm x 32 mm.
This reference design has been tested by TI. The company has also provided additional resources such as schematics, gerber files, etc. You can find additional data about the reference design on the company’s website. To read more about this reference design click here.
