Trace MS-100 Question

[joec]

Hello All!

I recently purchased a 120 watt Solarex panel (around $2/watt, not too bad...) and it arrived with a Trace MS-100 Microsine utility-interactive inveter installed on the back. The previous owner was also kind enough to include the OKE485 computer interface and a diskette with the DOS program on it.

My question:

While I could certainly use the 120 watts in my main array, I'm tempted to leave the MS-100 wired up as is and use it as originally intended. What's the group's thoughts relative to the MS-100 inverter and its usefulness/safety?

Thanks!

-Joe

[ghurd]

If nobody else want to guess... I will.

Legally, with all the paperwork, cut-off switch, special meters, fees for special meters, etc, payback could be 100,000,000 years.

IIRC, that is UL listed and legal to connect, AFTER all the hoops are jumped through.

('gorilla' is a lot less appealing than it once was)

IIRC, they did not have the best track record as far as useful life expectancy.

Trace went through all the effort and cost to get it UL stickered, then stopped making it, Why?

There was a time when it was easier to find online requests about repairing one than buying one.

(it may not function)

More useful data would be found online using the European brand name.

If it was a vote, mine would be use the 120W for the battery.

G-

[joec]

Thanks, Glen. I'll take it off and chuck it in a corner.

By the way - Your dump controller is by far the most reliable component in my system. Thanks again.

- Joe

[ghurd]

Do not chuck it into that corner too hard!

A lot of people would like to have it for parts (or something).

IIRC, it cost like $350 at the time.

And thanks to you too Joe!  

Always nice to hear "Your dump controller is by far the most reliable component in my system"!

It always gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling.  

G-