Solar Ready

Ben

Tab Outback.  The solar ready, does it already have a regulator to guard against overcharge or do I need to have one between my panels and the Tab?  I would assume it interfaces with the inverter and protects against overcharging but I can't find any info on it.

Nomad

The Outback could be different than my Max-S but doubt it - Solar ready on mine means there is an external port that's prewired to the battery. You'd still need to have a solar controller as part of your solar setup. Some buy panels and controllers separately and build their systems. Others, like me,  just buy a preconfigured system. I bought the Zamp 120w offered by Little Guy. All I had to do was set the controller for battery type and plug it in.

Lisa33

Ditto what PXLated said.  You'll need a solar charge controller.  Portable units normally include the controller.  Solar kits for permanent installion also typically include one.  If you just buy a panel, you'd need to buy a controller as well.  

Michigan_Mike

I agree with both comments above.   You can buy panels from companies like Renogy and also buy pre-assembled panels that come standard with the solar charge controllers.  

I certainly understand that for new owners the "solar ready" moniker (and statement) can be very confusing and as noted, merely means that you do have the ability to buy a portable solar panel (complete with solar charge controller) and plug it into the Zamp solar port on your trailer and begin charging the battery.  

Ben

Thanks all.  I suspected as much but just wanted to make sure I wasn't making unnecessary purchases or take the risk and wind up frying my battery.

Dalehelman

"Solar Ready" is a little bit of a stretch but it is one less thing you have to do.