Accessories

The OutBack MATE is a complete system controller and display for both the OutBack inverter/charger and OutBack MPPT PV charge controller. It provides a display of the operation and allows control and adjustment of the setpoints. The OutBack MATE also coordinates the operation of the entire system to maximize performance and to prevent multiple products from conflicting. A single OutBack MATE is able to connect to multiple inverter/chargers, OutBack MPPT PV charge controllers and any other OutBack power conversion and control products offered in the future. A maximum of ten OutBack products will be able to be connected to a single MATE via Cat 5 Ethernet type cabling with 8-wire RJ45 modular connectors and the OutBack HUB-10 communication manager. The OutBack MATE also includes an optoisolated RS-232 port with a DB9 jack for connection to the serial port of a PC computer. The MATE2 has a flush-mount black face for panel or in-wall mounting.

The MATE3 system display and controller is the next generation of communication interface providing control of every aspect of an OutBack power system. Program and monitor your power system with an intuitive user interface and integrated configuration wizard. An easy-to-read backlit graphical LCD display, a user set "favorite" key, and scroll wheel operation allows easy adjustment of system setpoints. Expandable SD card memory allows you to increase data logging capacity, as well as upgrade units in the field. Built-in clock and calendar enables timer-based programming, permitting the user to set the system up to work with time-of-day utility rates, or set up a generator to only run at certain times of the day or week. The MATE3 has permanent memory, and is internet enabled to allow full remote monitoring.

The FLEXnet DC System Monitor integrates with an OutBack MATE communications device, providing you with the data you need concerning your system's health, performance and efficiency. Easily see your system's current condition with this at-a-glance display. This screen shows battery state-of-charge and whether you are currently charging or discharging your batteries. It monitors the amount of power your system is currently producing and consuming as well as the amount of power going IN and OUT of your battery bank. It allows the MATE to display real-time production monitoring of DC sources, such as a solar array or small wind turbine, as well as consumption by loads. It also displays the cumulative energy your system has produced and consumed as well as the total amount of energy that has gone to charging your batteries today. This screen displays each day's lowest state-of-charge and allows you to see how your overall system production compares to system consumption. Review historical energy production and consumption data for the most recent 128 days, including the minimum battery state-of-charge reached for each day. The FLEXnet DC can be used to watch power system production and consumption trends.

A HUB is required to connect more than one inverter to the same load or to connect inverters, MATEs and FM charge controllers to allow programming and monitoring of the entire system by the MATE.

The RTS remote temperature sensor is important for accurate battery charging, especially if the batteries get very warm or cold. If used with a HUB, one temperature sensor can be shared by all inverters and FM charge controllers.