AIMS SCC30AMPPT
The SCC30AMPPT charge controller by AIMS Power features a smart tracking algorithm using MPPT charging technology and has less power loss performing at 97.5-99% efficiency, maximizing energy harvest. This advanced MPPT algorithm continuously adjusts for the optimal harvest from your panels, and tunes automatically (on the fly) to best suit current weather conditions.
Compatible with 12 & 24 volt battery systems, the controller features multistage charging technology and adjusts according to battery type. Pre-set battery support for Lead, Lithium (LiFePO), GEL, and AGM, makes setup simple. User programmable charging options are also available if you need to customize your settings.
Easy read LED indicators, and built in LCD, show charging status, performance and faults. Battery voltage, solar panel voltage, solar panel charging current and charge modes are all readily displayed.
Designed with a rugged metal housing, and integrated heat sink, this controller boasts fan-less operation, without the need to derate for high thermal operation. Internal circuit boards are conformal coated for marine use, and the controller is back by a 2 year warranty
ELECTRICAL
PV Operating Voltage:
- 18-100Vdc@12V
- 34-100Vdc@24V
Rated PV input:
- 12V – 400 Watts
- 24V – 800 watts
Maximum battery current: 30 amps
DC load port: 30 amps
Max PV open circuit voltage: 100Vdc
Self power consumption: <2 watts
Efficiency: 97%
Protections: overload, short circuit, high voltage, high temperature, low voltage and auto correct
Optimal cooling case design – built for extreme conditions
CHARGING
Battery types: gel, sealed, AGM, flooded, lithium, user defined (adjustable voltage)
4 Stage charging: bulk, absorption, float and equalize
Bulk charge voltage: sealed 14.4V, AGM/Gel 14.2V, flooded 14.6V, user defined 10-15V
Float charge voltage: sealed/AGM/Gel 13.7V, flooded 13.6V, user defined 10-15V
Equalize charge voltage: sealed 14.6V, AGM/Gel 14.8V, flooded 14.8V, user defined 10-15V
Low voltage reconnection: 12.5V
Low voltage disconnect voltage: 10.5V (10.5-12.5V adjustable)
Perfect For:
- Cabins
- RVs
- Trailers & Campers
- Vanlife / Bus Conversions
- Off Grid Solar
- Food & Service Trucks
- Landscaping Trailers
- Boat & Marine Installs
- Remote Monitoring Installations
- MPPT technology: Maximum Power Point Tracking produces maximum available power from PV array to battery bank utilizing peak power of the I-V curve
- Quality heatsink cooling – no fans needed and no thermal derating
- Battery type selector and user defined charging voltage (LiFePO4, Lead, AGM, Gel, Flooded, etc)
- 4 Stage Advanced Charging Algorithms
- High PV Input Voltage (Max 100VoC)
- Separate Battery Charging Outputs and Programmable Load Control Ports
- Marine Coated Circuit Boards (Extra Dust & Moisture Resistance)
- Over Built Design Using Higher Rated Internal Components for Better Heat Management and Long Life Reliability
- Up to 99% Efficiency
- Very Low self consumption
- Advanced Thermal Design with Rugged Case
- Over Temperature Protections
- Overload, short circuit, high and low voltage protection
- Stackable with Multiple Controllers for Future Expansion
- CE, ETL Certified to UL1741 and RoHS compliant
ELECTRICAL
- PV Operating Voltage:
- 18-100Vdc@12V Battery System
- 34-100Vdc@24V Battery System
- Max PV open circuit voltage: 100Vdc
- Rated PV Input Power:
- 400 Watts @ 12V Battery System
- 800 Watts @ 24V Battery System
- Maximum Charging Current: 30 Amps
- DC Load Port: 30 Amps Max
- Efficiency: >97%
- Self Power Consumption: <2 Watts
- Protection Features:
- Overload
- Short Circuit
- Over Voltag
- High temperature
- Low/Under Voltage
- Automatic Recovery
- Cooling: Fan-less Heatsink
CHARGING
- Supported Battery Types: Lithium (LiFePO), Gel, Sealed, AGM, Flooded, User-Defined (Custom voltage settings)
- 4 Stage Charging: Bulk, Absorption, Float and Equalize (Equalize disabled for Lithium)
- Bulk Charging Voltages:
- Lithium/LiFePO: 13.7-15 (Selectable)
- Sealed: 14.4V
- AGM/Gel: 14.2V
- Flooded: 14.6V
- User Defined 10-15V
- Float Charge Voltages:
- Lithium/LiFePO: (Same As Bulk)
- Sealed/AGM/Gel: 13.7V
- Flooded: 13.6V
- User Defined: 10-15V
- Equalize Charge Voltages:
- Lithium/LiFePO: (N/A - Disabled)
- Sealed: 14.6V
- AGM/Gel: 14.8V
- Flooded: 14.8V
- User Defined: 10-15V
- Low Voltage Disconnect: 10.5V (10.5-12.5V adjustable)
- Low Voltage Reconnection: 12.5V
MECHANICAL DETAILS:
Enclosure: IP43 Rated Metal Housing
Cooling: Integrated Heatsink
Humidity: 100% non-condensing
Temperature compensation: -5mV⁰C / 2V with BTS
Temperature range: -25⁰C to 60⁰C or -13⁰F to 140⁰F
Conformal Coated Circuit Boards For Damp & Marine Environments
Wire knockouts: 1.25”
Unit weight: 5 lbs
Boxed weight: 6 lbs
Dimensions: 8.25”L x 7”W x 2.75”H
Warranty: 2 years
Solar FAQ
About Solar Charge Controllers
What does a solar charge controller do?
A solar charge controller acts as the “brain” between your solar panels and your batteries. It regulates the unpredictable voltage and current from the solar panels to manage safe battery charging.
It prevents overcharging, regulates voltage, and ensures your battery bank charges in a safe, controlled way. Without one, solar panels could damage a battery by pushing in unregulated power.
At Sapphire, controllers are chosen to match our LiFePO₄ batteries perfectly, so you get maximum performance and lifespan from all of your gear.
It prevents overcharging, regulates voltage, and ensures your battery bank charges in a safe, controlled way. Without one, solar panels could damage a battery by pushing in unregulated power.
At Sapphire, controllers are chosen to match our LiFePO₄ batteries perfectly, so you get maximum performance and lifespan from all of your gear.
What is the difference between MPPT and PWM?
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) controllers are a very simple and affordable technology, that has been around for decades. They work by turning on/off rapidly, creating a pulsing voltage signal to simulate a proper charging voltage.
This works ok for lower voltage arrays, but wastes a significant amount of energy on higher voltage panels, and potentially risks damage to control circuits on the batteries. PWM is lower cost, but lower efficiency.
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers do exactly what the name implies. They use advanced electronics and actively adjust their behavior to pull the most power possible from your PV array. This is accomplished by actually transforming the excess voltage, into current that can be funneled directly into your battery system.
This boosts efficiency by up to 30%, and makes higher voltage arrays possible, reducing wiring costs. MPPT is almost always worth it. See our blog posts for deeper dives into MPPT vs PWM.
This works ok for lower voltage arrays, but wastes a significant amount of energy on higher voltage panels, and potentially risks damage to control circuits on the batteries. PWM is lower cost, but lower efficiency.
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers do exactly what the name implies. They use advanced electronics and actively adjust their behavior to pull the most power possible from your PV array. This is accomplished by actually transforming the excess voltage, into current that can be funneled directly into your battery system.
This boosts efficiency by up to 30%, and makes higher voltage arrays possible, reducing wiring costs. MPPT is almost always worth it. See our blog posts for deeper dives into MPPT vs PWM.
How do I size a solar charge controller?
Simple Answer: Controller sizing is based on both amps and voltage. Divide your total solar panel wattage by your system's battery voltage to find the max current, then add a 20–25% safety margin. For example, a 220W panel on a 12V system produces ~18A, so a 20–30A controller is recommended.
View our Solar Panels and Charge Controllers
View our Solar Panels and Charge Controllers
Can I use a solar charge controller with LiFePO₄ batteries?
Yes! It's one of the most popular ways to charge them.
Many modern controllers include lithium charging profiles built in.
Many modern controllers include lithium charging profiles built in.
How much solar can I connect to my controller?
Each controller has a marked maximum wattage and voltage input.
Moderate oversizing is fine—the controller will “clip” excess power—but never exceed its voltage rating. Check the Voc ratings on your panels, and be aware that colder temperatures will increase the panel output voltage. Leave yourself a margin so you're not stressing your controller.
When in doubt, it's always better to have a controller that is rated for more than you're connecting. It will help the controller run cooler, longer.
Moderate oversizing is fine—the controller will “clip” excess power—but never exceed its voltage rating. Check the Voc ratings on your panels, and be aware that colder temperatures will increase the panel output voltage. Leave yourself a margin so you're not stressing your controller.
When in doubt, it's always better to have a controller that is rated for more than you're connecting. It will help the controller run cooler, longer.
Do I need an inverter with a solar charge controller?
Not necessarily. That is a separate function in the system.
The solar controller's job is to manage DC charging only. What you do with that newly charged battery power is up to you.
To power AC appliances like microwaves, laptops, or TVs, you’ll need an inverter.
The solar controller's job is to manage DC charging only. What you do with that newly charged battery power is up to you.
To power AC appliances like microwaves, laptops, or TVs, you’ll need an inverter.
Can I mix different solar panels with one controller?
It’s possible but not recommended. Panels of different wattages/voltages drag each other down, reducing efficiency. There is also risk of over stressing things like bypass diodes and internal busbars in the panels.
Best practice is to use matched panels.
Best practice is to use matched panels.
What protections are built into solar charge controllers?
Modern controllers have many safety features built in to protect both the controllers themselves, and the batteries they charge. Things like temperature limitations, and low/high voltage safeties to disconnect from batteries that are operating outside their design specifications.
Are solar charge controllers waterproof?
Some are, but most are IP20–IP32 rated, which means dust and very light splash resistance but not waterproof.
Some of our RV controllers are IP54 giving you excellent dust and water protections, and there are IP65 models available for fully outdoor installations.
Generally though, it's best practice to mount the controllers inside a clean, cool, dry space. If you're note sure, contact us and we're happy to help.
Some of our RV controllers are IP54 giving you excellent dust and water protections, and there are IP65 models available for fully outdoor installations.
Generally though, it's best practice to mount the controllers inside a clean, cool, dry space. If you're note sure, contact us and we're happy to help.
What accessories should I use with my controller?
Always use properly sized fuses, breakers, and disconnects. A remote temperature sensor can improve charging accuracy in extreme climates, especially with lead batteries.
Sapphire offers disconnect switches and accessories designed to work with our batteries and controllers.
Sapphire offers disconnect switches and accessories designed to work with our batteries and controllers.
How long does a solar charge controller last?
A quality controller, installed properly, can last 10+ years. Install it in a cool and dry, well ventilated area for best performance.
Our MPPT units are designed for long-term reliability to match the service life of our Solar Panels, and our LiFePO₄ batteries.
Our MPPT units are designed for long-term reliability to match the service life of our Solar Panels, and our LiFePO₄ batteries.
What are common applications?
Solar charge controllers should ALWAYS be used when dealing with solar power and battery systems. It's the only way to safely harness the sun's energy through your PV array.
Controllers are commonly used in van builds, RVs, cabins, boats, tiny homes, and emergency backup power kits. They’re also great for specialized uses like powering security cameras or farm gates.
See our Blog Articles for ideas and more information
Controllers are commonly used in van builds, RVs, cabins, boats, tiny homes, and emergency backup power kits. They’re also great for specialized uses like powering security cameras or farm gates.
See our Blog Articles for ideas and more information
About Solar Panels
What size solar panel do I need?
Size depends on your daily energy usage and sun hours. A van fridge and lights often need ~200W, while cabins may need 400W+.
Start with discovering your daily power needs, cross checked with your battery sizing. See our article about sizing your battery for a good place to get started.
Start with discovering your daily power needs, cross checked with your battery sizing. See our article about sizing your battery for a good place to get started.
Can I connect multiple solar panels together?
Yes. Panels can be wired in series (higher voltage) or parallel (higher amps).
Be sure to consider the limitations of your charge controller when adding more solar.
Be sure to consider the limitations of your charge controller when adding more solar.
What happens if I oversize or undersize my solar array?
Oversizing wastes excess solar as the controller clips output, but it can give you more energy production in low-light conditions (like the fall/winter).
Under sizing will leave batteries undercharged, and you may struggle to keep the lights on. This may require you to augment your battery charging with things like DC-DC Engine Charging, Shore Power, or a generator.
Under sizing will leave batteries undercharged, and you may struggle to keep the lights on. This may require you to augment your battery charging with things like DC-DC Engine Charging, Shore Power, or a generator.
What is the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels?
Monocrystalline panels are a newer technology and are more efficient. This means a 100W panel takes less physical space (potentially allowing more panels in a given space). Things like the Polycrystalline-PERC cells take this one step further and even improve low light response. Our Lumera brand panels feature this proven and reliable cell technology.
Polycrystalline panels are sometimes slightly cheaper, but are an obsolete technology and it is recommended to avoid new installs using these.
Polycrystalline panels are sometimes slightly cheaper, but are an obsolete technology and it is recommended to avoid new installs using these.
Do solar panels work in cloudy weather or winter?
Yes—panels produce power in diffuse light, though output is reduced. Expect 10–40% of rated power on heavily clouded days. Winter actually offers some of the best temperatures (Solar likes it cold) but things like snow buildup, and low angles from the sun will reduce your output. Consider tilting your panels towards the winter sun to improve productions.
MPPT controllers can help maximize energy, even in sub-optimal conditions. Many people will "over panel" when they expect low production.
MPPT controllers can help maximize energy, even in sub-optimal conditions. Many people will "over panel" when they expect low production.
How long do solar panels last?
Most modern panels carry 20–25+ year performance warranties. They degrade slowly—typically only ~0.5% per year—and continue producing well beyond the warranty period. A good investment for long-term off-grid power.
Are solar panels waterproof and durable?
Yes. Quality panels use tempered glass and aluminum frames tested for hail, snow, and heavy rain. All panels we carry are built for Canadian weather conditions.
What maintenance do solar panels need?
Very little. Occasionally rinse off dust, pollen, or snow to restore efficiency. Inspect mounting and cabling once or twice a year. Panels are designed to be low-maintenance for decades of service.
When washing, use a non abrasive brush/cloth and a gentle soap.
Use a soft edged brush, or wiper, to remove snow and ice. Avoid hitting/impacts or using heat.
When washing, use a non abrasive brush/cloth and a gentle soap.
Use a soft edged brush, or wiper, to remove snow and ice. Avoid hitting/impacts or using heat.
Can I install solar panels myself?
Many vanlifers and cabin owners DIY their installs. Panels are relatively simple to mount, especially with plug-and-play wiring kits. For rooftops or high-voltage systems, a licensed installer is recommended for safety and compliance with local regulations.
What angle or direction should solar panels face?
In Canada, panels perform best facing south at a tilt close to your latitude. For users in the southern parts of the country, 45° is a great balance between summer and winter performance. Further north, it's not uncommon to see close to vertical mounting. This helps shed snow and ice, while maximizing the daily harvest in dark months.
Flat mounting on vans and RVs works too, but expect lower winter performance. Tilting mounts can boost output, but require you to stow the panels before moving.
Flat mounting on vans and RVs works too, but expect lower winter performance. Tilting mounts can boost output, but require you to stow the panels before moving.
Buying & System Design
How do I calculate how much solar I need?
Add up your daily watt-hour usage (appliances × hours), divide by average sun hours, and size your array accordingly. Example: 1000Wh daily use ÷ 4h sun = 250W panels minimum.
Ideally, you want to have more solar than you use in a day, so you can "catch up" after a couple of cloudy days.
For help, see our off-grid battery sizing guide.
Ideally, you want to have more solar than you use in a day, so you can "catch up" after a couple of cloudy days.
For help, see our off-grid battery sizing guide.
What size battery bank should I pair with my solar panels?
It depends on your loads and how many days of backup you want.
Figure out your daily usage, then multiply for the number of days you want to run without charging.
After that it's just a matter of picking your batteries out. Our batteries are listed with their Watt hour (Wh) capacities to help make this easier.
See our article on battery sizing to help get a better understanding.
Figure out your daily usage, then multiply for the number of days you want to run without charging.
After that it's just a matter of picking your batteries out. Our batteries are listed with their Watt hour (Wh) capacities to help make this easier.
See our article on battery sizing to help get a better understanding.
Do I need both a solar charge controller and an inverter?
Depends. The charge controller manages charging, while the inverter is used to help you consume that charge. Either can be used independently, but usually work best in a system together.
The inverter converts DC to AC so you can run household devices. Off-grid systems use multiple components together: Solar panels + MPPT controller + Sapphire LiFePO₄ battery + Inverter.
The inverter converts DC to AC so you can run household devices. Off-grid systems use multiple components together: Solar panels + MPPT controller + Sapphire LiFePO₄ battery + Inverter.
What safety equipment do I need for a solar setup?
Always include fuses or breakers, disconnect switches, and proper gauge cabling to avoid fires.
Sapphire carries battery disconnect switches and wiring accessories tested to handle high current safely.
Sapphire carries battery disconnect switches and wiring accessories tested to handle high current safely.
Can solar power run my entire house or RV?
Yes, if sized appropriately. Small systems can handle lights and USB charging, while larger arrays with multiple batteries can support appliances and full-time living. Many Sapphire customers start small and scale up as their needs grow.
Reach out to us with your goals and we can help guide you!
Reach out to us with your goals and we can help guide you!
What solar setup is best for vans, cabins, or sheds?
It varies a lot from person to person, but some general guides would suggest the following:
Vans: Usually 100–400W of panels + 100–300Ah LiFePO₄ battery.
Cabins: 400–1000W panels + 200–600Ah battery.
Sheds: 100–200W with 100Ah battery (more if you want to run tools)
Vans: Usually 100–400W of panels + 100–300Ah LiFePO₄ battery.
Cabins: 400–1000W panels + 200–600Ah battery.
Sheds: 100–200W with 100Ah battery (more if you want to run tools)
DID YOU KNOW?
Lithium is faster charging, safer and more efficient than lead-acid
Upgrade to a Sapphire LiFePO₄ battery today to unlock your full potential