trimetric TM-2020

[energytightwad]

I'm trying to install a TM-2020 on a system. the system has six Deka 8L16
batteries rated 370 amp/hours each. 12 volt operating system.
In the paperwork part 1, page 10, C. under (numbers you need to know)
It states BATTERY CAPACITY OF THE SYSTEM IS ABOUT ____ AMP-HOURS.
I dont know how to figure this out. Is there a formula to use? something tells me not to multiply 6x370 and use that answer. I have used google for the answer and (I) get no where. I have read Battery FAQ. I just dont understand. I think I'm having a senior WEEK or making this TO hard for myself. Please educate me
thanks
energytightwad

[Sunking]

OK this is easy. You have 6 -6 volt batteries rated at 370 AH.

OK if you configure them at 12 volts, (why you would do that is anther question) you will have 3 strings in parallel, with 2 batteries in series to give you 12 volts.

Each series string of 2 batteries is 370 AH x 3 strings = 1110 Amp Hours @ 12 volts.

Why 12 volts? You do know by doing that you are going to be wasting a lot of power as heat in the wiring. Also with 3 parallel strings you are going to run into load sharing and equalization problems unless great attention to detail and design is given.

[Mike90250]

...
Each series string of 2 batteries is 370 AH x 3 strings = 1110 Amp Hours @ 12 volts.
Why 12 volts? You do know by doing that you are going to be wasting a lot of power as heat in the wiring. Also with 3 parallel strings you are going to run into load sharing and equalization problems unless great attention to detail and design is given.

As usual, Sunking is right.

[energytightwad]

THANK YOU. Now I got it. two batteries equals one 12 volt battery (ie)string. 370 and 370
the A/H rating of all the batteries must be the same for equal charging and discharging
four batteries equals two strings and so on. Hypotheticly if I had ten batteries
i would figure 370 X 5.
take the a/h rating of one battery and multiply it times the number of strings.

I was making it to hard for myself. Over thinging the stuff.

for 12 volt system. I can use some automotive items in the system. fuses, fuse holders, #2 gauge auto battery cables, amp gauge (not very accurate but useable). dc compact fluorscent lamps. 12 volt fan from a tractor trailer.
12 volt radio from a junked car.
I have copper buss bars, one for pos and one for neg. quarter inch thick by
10 inches wide by 2 inches tall. solid copper made to fit. had to drill holes in it plus I have room for expantion IF I can ever afford it.

Thank You for bettering my education. I'm sure I'll have more questions in the future.
energytightwad