
BRAVO Waterproof 20 20A PWM Solar Charge Controller
Equipment Type and Primary Applications
The BRAVO Waterproof 20 is a 20A PWM solar charge controller for 12V battery systems in outdoor and moisture-prone installations. It regulates solar charging for Flooded (WET), AGM, GEL, Calcium, and lithium batteries, including systems requiring common positive grounding.
Performance Specifications
- Rated solar charging current: maximum 20A.
- Normal solar input range: 15–22VDC; maximum open-circuit PV input: 25VDC.
- Lowest operating voltage at the solar or battery side: 8VDC.
- Maximum solar-to-battery voltage drop: 0.25VDC; nighttime standby consumption: 5mA.
- Soft-start charging: 3–10 ±0.2VDC, with up to 10A at 50% PWM duty.
- Equalization charging: 15.5 ±0.2VDC at 25°C, with a 2-hour timer timeout.
- Temperature compensation: -24mV/°C across -4°F to +122°F; charging over-temperature protection activates at 149°F.
- Operating temperature: -25 to 50°C (-13 to 122°F); storage temperature: -40 to 85°C (-40 to 185°F).
- Operating humidity: 100% non-condensing; enclosure rating: IP65.
Safety Features and Certifications
Electronic protection covers over-voltage, short circuit, reverse polarity, over-temperature, and thermal conditions. Spark-free battery connection improves installation safety. The controller is CE, EMC, and FCC compliant and uses a conformal-coated circuit board for moisture and corrosion resistance.
Installation and Maintenance Requirements
Install vertically on a flat surface using the supplied three plastic spacers and self-tapping screws. Connections use M5 terminals for up to #10 AWG or 5mm² stranded wire. Commission by mounting securely and connecting the 12V battery and solar array according to system polarity. Maintain by inspecting terminals, wiring, enclosure condition, and moisture exposure.
Warranty and Service Information
Branding/References
Manufacturer: BRAVO. Model: Waterproof 20.
Differentiators
Automatic BMS activation can reactivate protected lithium batteries, while optional external temperature-sensor support enables automatic charging compensation.