UPDATE 08/20/2017:
This Morningstar TS-45 TriStar charge controller has been operating nonstop since its installation in late December of 2016 - logging over 5000 hours of uninterrupted use. It has worked flawlessly. My battery bank has been kept at a consistent charge, ready for the periodic power outages we have here on the island. The software that allows it to communicate to the computer is easy to use, and full of important diagnostic and statistical information. An all around excellent piece of professional quality equipment. Absolutely recommended!
UPDATE 12/13: The best solution to the serial cable problem was actually pretty simple: a male to female *internal* serial extension/jumper cable. (See pic below) I ordered this here on Amazon as well, and the sticker with product data is in the pic. It's just small enough to allow for the cover to be completely closed and screwed down while the serial cable remains connected, allowing the Serial-to-USB to be connected on its other end, fed through one of the conduit ports, and out to the computer for monitoring.
***************
I only just received this today, so it hasn't been installed yet. I did, however, quickly wire it up in place of my existing controller to verify that it was working.
My first impression is that it's extremely well built, with a nice powder-coated metal case, heavy metal heat sink, and industrial quality connectors on the board inside.
Once connected, I tried connecting the serial port to my computer via a generic DB9 serial-to-usb cable which I ordered (Thank you, James H.) along with the TS-45. I opened up Morningstar's MSView program, searched for device, and...
Nothing.*
*NOTE: Install drivers for serial DB9 to USB before expecting connection between computer and controller. In Windows, Device Manager will show a flag if drivers need to be installed. (Who knew cables needed drivers?!? LOL)
Once I installed the drivers for the cable, MSView instantly recognized my TS-45 on the other end, and within a few clicks, had some preliminary data about my system.
Awesome! One of the main reasons why I wanted this Morningstar controller.
NOTE: The serial connector on the board is in a snug spot between the heat sink and the LEDs. I had to shave down the plastic casing of the plug on my cable to get it to fit properly inside. And there's no way there's enough space with it plugged in to put the cover of the controller back on because the standard plug is too tall. A little serial jumper/extension plug might need to be bought/made to rectify this - shouldn't be expensive or hard, and should allow for a permanent connection to the cable inside the case with the cover installed. I will post a pic of the solution to this once I figure it out myself. (SEE UPDATE ABOVE AND PIC)
The 60 page instruction manual, which is also available as a PDF download on their website, is very well written and explains setup/features/settings in good detail.
It'll probably be a few days before it's completely wired-up and installed, so I'll update my review when it's all set up. But as of right now, everything looks to be top-notch.
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Product Description
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| SunSaver MPPT | ProStar MPPT | TriStar MPPT | TriStar MPPT 600v | |
| Available Amperage | 15a | 25a | 40a | 30a | 45a | 60a | 60a |
| Battery Voltages Supported | 12v | 24v | 12v | 24v | 12v | 24v | 36v | 48v | 48v |
Compare with similar items
This Item  Morningstar Corporation Morningstar Tristar 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller 12V/24V/48V Batteries, Solar Panel Controller Battery Controller Solar Controller 12V 24V, Lowest Fail Rate MPPT Charge Controller for Solar Panels |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | $448.00 | -6% $159.99 List: $169.99 | -18% $245.00 List: $298.00 | $393.00 | $458.00 | $558.00 |
| Delivery | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Dec 20 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Dec 20 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Dec 20 | Get it as soon as Thursday, Dec 21 | Get it as soon as Thursday, Dec 21 | Get it as soon as Friday, Dec 22 |
| Customer Ratings | ||||||
| Easy to install | ||||||
| Value for money | ||||||
| Tech Support | ||||||
| Sold By | MorningstarCorp | Amazon.com | AMPINVT-US | MorningstarCorp | MorningstarCorp | MorningstarCorp |
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Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2016
Size: PWM 45A - No DisplayVerified Purchase
UPDATE 08/20/2017:
This Morningstar TS-45 TriStar charge controller has been operating nonstop since its installation in late December of 2016 - logging over 5000 hours of uninterrupted use. It has worked flawlessly. My battery bank has been kept at a consistent charge, ready for the periodic power outages we have here on the island. The software that allows it to communicate to the computer is easy to use, and full of important diagnostic and statistical information. An all around excellent piece of professional quality equipment. Absolutely recommended!
UPDATE 12/13: The best solution to the serial cable problem was actually pretty simple: a male to female *internal* serial extension/jumper cable. (See pic below) I ordered this here on Amazon as well, and the sticker with product data is in the pic. It's just small enough to allow for the cover to be completely closed and screwed down while the serial cable remains connected, allowing the Serial-to-USB to be connected on its other end, fed through one of the conduit ports, and out to the computer for monitoring.
***************
I only just received this today, so it hasn't been installed yet. I did, however, quickly wire it up in place of my existing controller to verify that it was working.
My first impression is that it's extremely well built, with a nice powder-coated metal case, heavy metal heat sink, and industrial quality connectors on the board inside.
Once connected, I tried connecting the serial port to my computer via a generic DB9 serial-to-usb cable which I ordered (Thank you, James H.) along with the TS-45. I opened up Morningstar's MSView program, searched for device, and...
Nothing.*
*NOTE: Install drivers for serial DB9 to USB before expecting connection between computer and controller. In Windows, Device Manager will show a flag if drivers need to be installed. (Who knew cables needed drivers?!? LOL)
Once I installed the drivers for the cable, MSView instantly recognized my TS-45 on the other end, and within a few clicks, had some preliminary data about my system.
Awesome! One of the main reasons why I wanted this Morningstar controller.
NOTE: The serial connector on the board is in a snug spot between the heat sink and the LEDs. I had to shave down the plastic casing of the plug on my cable to get it to fit properly inside. And there's no way there's enough space with it plugged in to put the cover of the controller back on because the standard plug is too tall. A little serial jumper/extension plug might need to be bought/made to rectify this - shouldn't be expensive or hard, and should allow for a permanent connection to the cable inside the case with the cover installed. I will post a pic of the solution to this once I figure it out myself. (SEE UPDATE ABOVE AND PIC)
The 60 page instruction manual, which is also available as a PDF download on their website, is very well written and explains setup/features/settings in good detail.
It'll probably be a few days before it's completely wired-up and installed, so I'll update my review when it's all set up. But as of right now, everything looks to be top-notch.
This Morningstar TS-45 TriStar charge controller has been operating nonstop since its installation in late December of 2016 - logging over 5000 hours of uninterrupted use. It has worked flawlessly. My battery bank has been kept at a consistent charge, ready for the periodic power outages we have here on the island. The software that allows it to communicate to the computer is easy to use, and full of important diagnostic and statistical information. An all around excellent piece of professional quality equipment. Absolutely recommended!
UPDATE 12/13: The best solution to the serial cable problem was actually pretty simple: a male to female *internal* serial extension/jumper cable. (See pic below) I ordered this here on Amazon as well, and the sticker with product data is in the pic. It's just small enough to allow for the cover to be completely closed and screwed down while the serial cable remains connected, allowing the Serial-to-USB to be connected on its other end, fed through one of the conduit ports, and out to the computer for monitoring.
***************
I only just received this today, so it hasn't been installed yet. I did, however, quickly wire it up in place of my existing controller to verify that it was working.
My first impression is that it's extremely well built, with a nice powder-coated metal case, heavy metal heat sink, and industrial quality connectors on the board inside.
Once connected, I tried connecting the serial port to my computer via a generic DB9 serial-to-usb cable which I ordered (Thank you, James H.) along with the TS-45. I opened up Morningstar's MSView program, searched for device, and...
Nothing.*
*NOTE: Install drivers for serial DB9 to USB before expecting connection between computer and controller. In Windows, Device Manager will show a flag if drivers need to be installed. (Who knew cables needed drivers?!? LOL)
Once I installed the drivers for the cable, MSView instantly recognized my TS-45 on the other end, and within a few clicks, had some preliminary data about my system.
Awesome! One of the main reasons why I wanted this Morningstar controller.
NOTE: The serial connector on the board is in a snug spot between the heat sink and the LEDs. I had to shave down the plastic casing of the plug on my cable to get it to fit properly inside. And there's no way there's enough space with it plugged in to put the cover of the controller back on because the standard plug is too tall. A little serial jumper/extension plug might need to be bought/made to rectify this - shouldn't be expensive or hard, and should allow for a permanent connection to the cable inside the case with the cover installed. I will post a pic of the solution to this once I figure it out myself. (SEE UPDATE ABOVE AND PIC)
The 60 page instruction manual, which is also available as a PDF download on their website, is very well written and explains setup/features/settings in good detail.
It'll probably be a few days before it's completely wired-up and installed, so I'll update my review when it's all set up. But as of right now, everything looks to be top-notch.
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on October 8, 2023
Size: MPPT 60A - DisplayVerified Purchase
Just installed second system (left side) to handle new array. First system installed and running reliably and issue free for over 7 years. Very confident I’ll enjoy many more years of trouble free service.
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2022
I purchased a 60 Amp PWM model with display from Amazon Warehouse in March 2021 (17 Months ago), and I LOVE IT! This is a true workhorse, it will make reliable power for many, many years. If you configure it CORRECTLY!
The display will only get you so far programing the settings. If you want to maximize your array production, or use it to charge a Lithium battery bank, you will REQUIRE an RSC 1, RS-232 adapter, I bought a cheap serial to USB, and modified it slightly to fit. You will also need a computer with Windows, and Internet access, so you can UPDATE THE SOFTWARE/FIRMWARE ON THE CONTROLLER! Some of these units may have been on the shelf for a while, so if you want the latest features, you will need the latest Firmware version.
Spend the extra cash for the display. Even if you plan to monitor the system via network, the display is still very useful during initial set-up, and troubleshooting.
Do NOT expect it to work out of the box, unless your system as primitive, and rudimentary. If you decide to forgo the Com adapter and display options, you will have problems. If you neglect to update the Firmware, you will most likely have problems.
If you are thinking about purchasing this incredible product, but lack the simple technical skills to configure it, you should look elsewhere, and probably just stick to Grid Power.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
DO NOT BLAME THIS AMAZING PRODUCT FOR YOUR OWN IGNORANCE!!!
Size: PWM 60A - DisplayVerified Purchase
Morningstar Tristar 60A PWM Probably the only controller that will outlive your panels!
Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2022
I see many people giving this product poor reviews, and even more people rating those reviews as "Helpful". Let me just say, they are wrong! DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! This is the most reliable, long lasting solar controller on the market. If you are not technically inclined, this product is NOT for you.Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2022
I purchased a 60 Amp PWM model with display from Amazon Warehouse in March 2021 (17 Months ago), and I LOVE IT! This is a true workhorse, it will make reliable power for many, many years. If you configure it CORRECTLY!
The display will only get you so far programing the settings. If you want to maximize your array production, or use it to charge a Lithium battery bank, you will REQUIRE an RSC 1, RS-232 adapter, I bought a cheap serial to USB, and modified it slightly to fit. You will also need a computer with Windows, and Internet access, so you can UPDATE THE SOFTWARE/FIRMWARE ON THE CONTROLLER! Some of these units may have been on the shelf for a while, so if you want the latest features, you will need the latest Firmware version.
Spend the extra cash for the display. Even if you plan to monitor the system via network, the display is still very useful during initial set-up, and troubleshooting.
Do NOT expect it to work out of the box, unless your system as primitive, and rudimentary. If you decide to forgo the Com adapter and display options, you will have problems. If you neglect to update the Firmware, you will most likely have problems.
If you are thinking about purchasing this incredible product, but lack the simple technical skills to configure it, you should look elsewhere, and probably just stick to Grid Power.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
DO NOT BLAME THIS AMAZING PRODUCT FOR YOUR OWN IGNORANCE!!!
Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
richard tibeau
je me suis tromper sur la commande je veut un MPPT cest tout
Reviewed in Canada on November 26, 2022Size: PWM 45A - No DisplayVerified Purchase
musselbeach
excellent controller it has been working perfectly I did away ...
Reviewed in Canada on August 18, 2018Size: PWM 60A - No DisplayVerified Purchase
Placeholder
Exactly performs as promised
Reviewed in Canada on June 16, 2016Size: PWM 45A - No DisplayVerified Purchase
Caballero
Buen producto.
Reviewed in Mexico on June 1, 2021Size: PWM 60A - No DisplayVerified Purchase
Amazon Customer
An advanced connection between solar [panels and batteries. Worth ...
Reviewed in Canada on April 18, 2018Size: MPPT 60A - No DisplayVerified Purchase
