A versatile microprocessor based controller for solar tracking

Abstract

A microprocessor-based solar tracking controller was designed and fabricated. In addition to tracking, the controller is capable of acquiring photovoltaic and meteorological data from a photovoltaic system and controlling battery/load. These features are extremely useful in autonomous PV power systems installed in remote areas for system control and monitoring. Solar tracking can be achieved in closed-loop and open-loop modes, and the controller can provide either six PWM (pulse-width-modulated) signals for a three-phase, 50 Hz AC motor or four step signals for a stepper motor. The controller has been laboratory tested.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>