Abstract
Using MPPT with solar panel (PV) installations has clear advantages. Several techniques are available for building PV MPPT using analog or digital and microcontroller-based control algorithms. MPPT algorithms are simple enough, but implementing a working MPPT controller is not a simple task, because it is required to know the particularities of the underlying switching converter. Many of the so-called scientific papers published on this topic simply use computer simulations instead of real hardware, and the readers find themselves lacking vital information. In this chapter, we will consider the following topics in detail:
1. The basic theory of operation of the switched-mode power supply.
2. DC/DC converters and how it can be used for maximum power tracking.
3. The concept of MPPT for PV arrays.
4. Power electronics and fundamentals of power switches.
5. Practical implementation of power modules used in DC/DC converters.
6. Driver circuits.
7. Software and control algorithms needed for DC/DC converters.
8. Practical DC/DC converters for MPPT of PV systems.
9. Design procedure of PV MPPT for different types of loads.
10. Battery charger circuits with MPPT.
11. Grid-connected inverters with MPPT for PV systems.
Although the above topics will be covered theoretically and analytically, more attention to practical implementation will be considered. By the end of this chapter, the reader will be able to design, implement and test an MPPT circuit for a given load profile.