Description
OutBack Power FLEXmax 80 Amp 150V MPPT Charge Controller (FM80-150)
Overview
The OutBack Power FLEXmax 80 (FM80-150) is a professional-grade MPPT charge controller designed for off-grid, hybrid, and battery-based solar power systems. It delivers up to 80 amps of regulated charging current and accepts PV input voltages up to 150 VDC, supporting 12 V – 60 VDC battery banks in one configurable unit. OutBack’s continuous MPPT algorithm increases solar harvest by as much as 30% versus PWM controllers, while active cooling and intelligent thermal management maintain full output in ambient temperatures up to 104 °F (40 °C). Built-in data logging (128 days), a backlit LCD display, and OutBack network compatibility make the FLEXmax 80 a proven choice for residential, commercial, and industrial solar installations.
Proudly Made in the USA
Every OutBack Power FLEXmax 80 is designed and assembled by OutBack Power Technologies in Arlington, Washington — right here in the USA.
Built under strict American engineering standards, these controllers deliver long-term reliability in harsh off-grid, telecom, and industrial environments.
Choosing FLEXmax means choosing dependable, American-built power conversion that lasts.
Key Features
- 80 A continuous output — full-rated at 104 °F (40 °C).
- 150 VDC PV input — enables long array strings for reduced wiring costs.
- 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 / 60 VDC battery banks selectable in one unit.
- Continuous MPPT tracking — boosts daily yield up to 30 % over PWM.
- Five-stage charging — Bulk → Absorption → Float → Silent → Equalize.
- 128-day data logging — tracks energy, voltage, and temperature history.
- Network-ready — integrates with MATE3s, HUB, and OPTICS RE for remote control.
- Aux 12 V output — programmable for fan, alarm, or relay control.
Applications
- Off-grid solar charging for homes, cabins, and agricultural systems
- Hybrid battery-backup power systems (grid-interactive or standalone)
- Telecom, SCADA, oil & gas, and remote industrial sites
- Microgrids, remote infrastructure, and field instrumentation
- Mission-critical renewable systems requiring 24/7 dependability
Technical Specifications
| Model | FLEXmax 80 (FM80-150) |
|---|---|
| Maximum Output Current | 80 A DC (continuous) |
| Supported Battery Voltages | 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 / 60 VDC (selectable) |
| Max PV Open-Circuit Voltage (VOC) | 150 VDC absolute max (145 VDC operating) |
| Charging Stages | Bulk, Absorption, Float, Silent, Equalize |
| MPPT Algorithm | Continuous active tracking (automatic optimization) |
| Display | Backlit 80-character LCD (status & history) |
| Data Logging | 128-day rolling history (internal memory) |
| Typical Efficiency | ≈ 97 % |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +60 °C (derates above 40 °C) |
| Auxiliary Output | 12 V DC (0.2 A max, programmable) |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 16.25″ × 5.75″ × 4″ (41.3 × 14.6 × 10.2 cm) |
| Weight | 12.2 lb (5.5 kg) |
| Manufacturer | OutBack Power Technologies |
| Warranty | 5-year limited (extendable to 10 years optional) |
Data derived from OutBack Power FLEXmax Series specifications and manufacturer documentation (FLEXMAX.pdf).
Design & Performance
The FLEXmax 80’s active-cooling architecture ensures reliable operation under heavy load and high temperature. Its high-voltage MPPT input design minimizes array cabling and voltage drop while maintaining top-tier conversion efficiency. It supports a wide range of lead-acid and lithium chemistries with precise voltage set-points and temperature compensation.
Integration & Expandability
- Integrates seamlessly with OutBack inverters (FX/VFX/FXR series) and system monitors (MATE & OPTICS RE).
- Provides flexible AUX control for fans, gen-start relays, or alarms based on system conditions.
- Ideal for off-grid telecom, industrial power, and renewable microgrid environments where uptime matters.
