Basic info about adding a Zamp panel and batteries

dluck

I have tried finding info, but it's all way over my head - forgive my ignorance here!

I have a 2021 TAB 320 CS-S. It has the factory solar panels and I have the Victron app, although I haven't really figured out how to use it yet. We have 45-watt suitcase ZAMP panels we used with our previous camper.  Since there's no Zamp connector (that I can find) on the TAB I'm very confused about how/if to use them. Can I just connect the alligator clips to the battery? Would that make both the factory and zamp panels charging it at one time, or would it replace the factory panels? How would it affect the Victron?  Would I need an additional controller or something?

Right now the camper has the standard battery, but we're also thinking about upgrading it as we'll be national park camping (no hookups) for a whole month (working as volunteers). I'd also appreciate some basic info about different options - going lithium seems the most simple? I'm not really interested doing rewiring or installing a bunch of stuff - more interested in easy than cheap. I want to be able to run the lights, ceiling fan, ALDE on propane, and (the big one) the fridge.

Thanks,
DeAnne

Sharon_is_SAM

After turning on Bluetooth, enter settings in the app.  Here is the manual.
https://www.victronenergy.com/upload/documents/VictronConnect_Manual/8778-VictronConnect_manual-pdf-en.pdf

Regarding your extra Zamp panels, if you have been using them, they must have a Zamp charge controller built in, so, just use the alligator clips directly on the battery terminals.  Both solar sources will charge the battery.  The Victron charge controller will read the battery voltage, but only give you info regarding the installed solar panels.