---
product_id: 16879664
title: "Morningstar Tristar 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller (TS-MPPT-30) - Solar Panel Regulator for 12/24/36/48V LA/Li Batteries, 99% Efficiency, FCC Compliant, Data/Comms, 5 Yr. WTY, Designed in USA"
brand: "morningstar corporation"
price: "R15585"
currency: ZAR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 3
url: https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/16879664-morningstar-tristar-30a-mppt-solar-charge-controller-ts-mppt-30
store_origin: ZA
region: South Africa
---

# 30A MPPT max power boost Full network & comms support 99% peak efficiency, fanless cooling Morningstar Tristar 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller (TS-MPPT-30) - Solar Panel Regulator for 12/24/36/48V LA/Li Batteries, 99% Efficiency, FCC Compliant, Data/Comms, 5 Yr. WTY, Designed in USA

**Brand:** morningstar corporation
**Price:** R15585
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> ⚡ Charge smarter, live greener — the future of solar control is here!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Morningstar Tristar 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller (TS-MPPT-30) - Solar Panel Regulator for 12/24/36/48V LA/Li Batteries, 99% Efficiency, FCC Compliant, Data/Comms, 5 Yr. WTY, Designed in USA by morningstar corporation
- **How much does it cost?** R15585 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.za](https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/16879664-morningstar-tristar-30a-mppt-solar-charge-controller-ts-mppt-30)

## Best For

- morningstar corporation enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted morningstar corporation brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Precision Battery Care:** Remote temperature sensor optimizes charging by monitoring battery temps for longer battery life.
- • **Power Up Your Solar Game:** 30A MPPT controller maximizes energy harvest for larger, multi-panel setups.
- • **Built-In Safety You Can Trust:** Comprehensive electronic protections guard your system from surges, shorts, and overheating.
- • **Stay Connected, Stay Informed:** Advanced networking with MODBUS, Ethernet, and real-time alerts keeps you in control anywhere.
- • **Efficiency That Works Overtime:** Industry-leading 99% efficiency with passive cooling ensures reliable, loss-minimized charging.

## Overview

The Morningstar TriStar 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller is a high-performance regulator designed for 12-48V battery systems, delivering up to 99% efficiency with advanced MPPT technology. It supports extensive networking and communication protocols for remote monitoring and control, features robust electronic protections, and includes a remote temperature sensor for precise battery management. Built in the USA with a 5-year warranty, it’s engineered for reliability and optimal solar energy harvesting in demanding environments.

## Description

Full description not available

## Features

- 30A MPPT CONTROLLER: Morningstar TriStar Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) 30A solar charge controller is perfect for larger solar systems with multiple panels or high-voltage outputs. It boosts energy output and accelerates charging times. Compatible with a wide variety of solar modules and array configurations, it ensures optimal energy harvest.
- NETWORKING & COMMUNICATIONS: Enables system monitoring, data logging, and adjustability with open standard MODBUS protocol and MS View software. Supports for Morningstar product communication, PC connection, bus device communication, and Ethernet for web-enabled local network interface, including email and text alerts. Provides IP-based network and internet connectivity, including Simple Network Management Protocols (SNMP).
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Achieves peak efficiency of 99% with proprietary tracking algorithms that minimize power losses. It features low self-consumption and supports continuous operation at full power up to 45°C without the need for derating. Fanless passive heat sink and over-spec'd components and design reduces losses from heating and makes TriStar MPPT highly reliable.
- ELECTRONIC PROTECTIONS: These systems feature built-in electronic protection against surges, short-circuits, overloads, and reverse polarity. They include high voltage and high temperature disconnect to safeguard against damage to electrical components. Advanced self-diagnostics alert users to installation or operational errors, while automatic recovery ensures continuous protection.
- REMOTE TEMPERATURE SENSOR: This controller includes a Remote Temperature Sensor to connect battery to charge controller, providing accurate battery temperature info when battery & controller temperatures are likely to differ by >5C.
- TRUSTED RELIABILITY: Morningstar Corporation is a US company established in 1993 and is a global leader in manufacturing PWM and MPPT solar charge controllers, inverters, and accessories. Renowned for the industry's lowest hardware failure rate, Morningstar provides dependable, innovative technology for advanced solar applications. Morningstar products include U.S. based Tech Support and are the top choice for mission-critical users.

## Product Details

- **Color:** white/black
- **Brand:** Morningstar Corporation
- **Voltage:** 12 Volts (DC)
- **Material:** Steel
- **Item Weight:** 16 ounces

## Images

![Morningstar Tristar 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller (TS-MPPT-30) - Solar Panel Regulator for 12/24/36/48V LA/Li Batteries, 99% Efficiency, FCC Compliant, Data/Comms, 5 Yr. WTY, Designed in USA - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71izgbPy+vL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Size** options.

## Questions & Answers

**Q: Will this unit handle charge controlling and load controlling at the same time?**
A: I downloaded the manual PDF, as you should, I believe it said it doesn't do both at the same time, but you should check for yourself. From the manual..."There are three distinct and independent operating modes programmed into each TriStar. Only one mode of operation can be selected for an individual TriStar. If a system requires a charging controller and a load controller, two TriStars must be used."

**Q: Can I run two 160W panels with a 18.5Vmmp and a VOC of 22.2 in series to charge a 150Ah 12V battery bank with this controller?**
A: You need to put them in parallel   Each panel added in parallel adds its amp rating to the system   Each added in series adds its volt rating to the system   For example two panels in parallel with 9 amp rating  will make 18 amps and 18.5 mmp   In series it produce double voltage but only 9 amps. Unless you use a mppt charge controller. Connecting these two panels in series will also work but you would be just as well off with only one panel

**Q: What is the difference beween this controller and the $541 morningstar ts-mppt-60 ?**
A: From what I can tell the difference between the ts-moot-60 and ts-moot-60M is the 60M version has the meter included. They are both mppt units and identical otherwise.

**Q: Will this control work with reliable 4000w solar power inverter 12vdc to 120v ac off grid pure sine wave inverter with 5-160 watt panels (800w total)?**
A: I run five 300 watt panels with mine, works great here in central america....my inverter is just 1500 watts but the controller just cares for the battery bank.  It equalizes at 15.7, and has been pulled down to 11 volts..never a hickup.  I had to put rf chokes on my ham radio power leads...got a bit of noise.  RF chokes are cheap...buy a box and put them on your power cords if needed.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ TS-45 So far, so good.
*by A***O on November 30, 2016*

UPDATE 08/20/2017:This Morningstar TS-45 TriStar charge controller has been operating nonstop since its installation in late December of 2016 - logging over 5000 hours of uninterrupted use. It has worked flawlessly. My battery bank has been kept at a consistent charge, ready for the periodic power outages we have here on the island. The software that allows it to communicate to the computer is easy to use, and full of important diagnostic and statistical information. An all around excellent piece of professional quality equipment. Absolutely recommended!UPDATE 12/13: The best solution to the serial cable problem was actually pretty simple: a male to female *internal* serial extension/jumper cable. (See pic below) I ordered this here on Amazon as well, and the sticker with product data is in the pic. It's just small enough to allow for the cover to be completely closed and screwed down while the serial cable remains connected, allowing the Serial-to-USB to be connected on its other end, fed through one of the conduit ports, and out to the computer for monitoring.***************I only just received this today, so it hasn't been installed yet. I did, however, quickly wire it up in place of my existing controller to verify that it was working.My first impression is that it's extremely well built, with a nice powder-coated metal case, heavy metal heat sink, and industrial quality connectors on the board inside.Once connected, I tried connecting the serial port to my computer via a generic DB9 serial-to-usb cable which I ordered (Thank you, James H.) along with the TS-45. I opened up Morningstar's MSView program, searched for device, and...Nothing.**NOTE: Install drivers for serial DB9 to USB before expecting connection between computer and controller. In Windows, Device Manager will show a flag if drivers need to be installed. (Who knew cables needed drivers?!? LOL)Once I installed the drivers for the cable, MSView instantly recognized my TS-45 on the other end, and within a few clicks, had some preliminary data about my system.Awesome! One of the main reasons why I wanted this Morningstar controller.NOTE: The serial connector on the board is in a snug spot between the heat sink and the LEDs. I had to shave down the plastic casing of the plug on my cable to get it to fit properly inside. And there's no way there's enough space with it plugged in to put the cover of the controller back on because the standard plug is too tall. A little serial jumper/extension plug might need to be bought/made to rectify this - shouldn't be expensive or hard, and should allow for a permanent connection to the cable inside the case with the cover installed. I will post a pic of the solution to this once I figure it out myself. (SEE UPDATE ABOVE AND PIC)The 60 page instruction manual, which is also available as a PDF download on their website, is very well written and explains setup/features/settings in good detail.It'll probably be a few days before it's completely wired-up and installed, so I'll update my review when it's all set up. But as of right now, everything looks to be top-notch.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Morningstar Tristar 60A PWM Probably the only controller that will outlive your panels!
*by K***E on August 3, 2022*

I see many people giving this product poor reviews, and even more people rating those reviews as "Helpful". Let me just say, they are wrong! DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! This is the most reliable, long lasting solar controller on the market. If you are not technically inclined, this product is NOT for you.I purchased a 60 Amp PWM model with display from Amazon Warehouse in March 2021 (17 Months ago), and I LOVE IT! This is a true workhorse, it will make reliable power for many, many years. If you configure it CORRECTLY!The display will only get you so far programing the settings. If you want to maximize your array production, or use it to charge a Lithium battery bank, you will REQUIRE an RSC 1, RS-232 adapter, I bought a cheap serial to USB, and modified it slightly to fit. You will also need a computer with Windows, and Internet access, so you can UPDATE THE SOFTWARE/FIRMWARE ON THE CONTROLLER! Some of these units may have been on the shelf for a while, so if you want the latest features, you will need the latest Firmware version.Spend the extra cash for the display. Even if you plan to monitor the system via network, the display is still very useful during initial set-up, and troubleshooting.Do NOT expect it to work out of the box, unless your system as primitive, and rudimentary. If you decide to forgo the Com adapter and display options, you will have problems. If you neglect to update the Firmware, you will most likely have problems.If you are thinking about purchasing this incredible product, but lack the simple technical skills to configure it, you should look elsewhere, and probably just stick to Grid Power.YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!DO NOT BLAME THIS AMAZING PRODUCT FOR YOUR OWN IGNORANCE!!!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nice unit, the ethernet interface is very nice to have.
*by T***N on March 2, 2013*

Overall the unit is very nice, the only issue I have with it, is the knock out tabs are very hard to get out. This could be an issue as the impact from knocking them out could damage something. I actually ended up taking the bottom cover off as I was concerned I was going to break it. It has a very nice web interface, the documentation is excellent and morningstars support was adequate. Unfortunately I could not get a clear answer for a scenario I posed, but this is also a loaded question as they don't have my exact panels to test with, Just wish they gave me some reference example. Anyway, I have 3x100 Watt Instapark panels running now in serias and I compared its performance to what I recorded on my old PWM charger with just a single 100 watt panel, the comparable sample I had showed a 16% increase in output. To me anyone with real usage for a Solar Charger should be using MPPT. My main application is powering my primary sump pump, so its almost mission critical. I am sure they will address the knock out issue ,and taking the bottom off is not that bad, one board post you have to be careful with and the board side holders, not for amateurs for sure, but I would hope amateurs don't plan on trying to install one of these as well. I will be adding 3X100 in parallel to my existing ones when it warms up a bit, and that will max me out as I have a 12 volt setup. If I stay 12 beyond that I can add another unit as it is designed to scale in that manner.

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*Product available on Desertcart South Africa*
*Store origin: ZA*
*Last updated: 2026-03-07*