TRISTAR
Digital Meters

Installation and Operation Manual
Version: TS-M-2
Version: TS-RM-2

8 Pheasant Run
Newtown, PA 18940 USA
email: info@morningstarcorp.com
www.morningstarcorp.com

TS-RM-2 Dimensions in inches [mm]Contents

1.0 Important Safety Information
2.0 Meter Description
2.1 Meter Versions
2.2 General Use
3.1 General Information

3.0 Installation

4
6
7
7
9

9

3.2 TS-M-2 Install (single TriStar)
10
3.3 TS-RM-2 Install (single TriStar) 12
3.4 Multi-TriStar Network Setup
14

4.0 Operation
4.1 Backlighting
4.2 Single TriStar System
4.3 TriStar MeterBus Networks

2

21
22
23
35

5.0 Troubleshooting
6.0 Warranty
7.0 Technical Specifications

40
43
44

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual31.0 Important Safety Information

Installation Safety Precautions (Local Meter)• Disconnect all power sources from the controller before mounting
the TS-M-2 local meter.

Save These Instructions• Use the supplied RJ-11 meter cable to connect the meter to thecontroller.

This manual contains important safety, installation and operating instructions for the TriStar Meter 2 digital displays.
The following symbols are used throughout this manual toindicate potentially dangerous conditions or mark importantsafety instructions:• Bend the power conductors in the conduit wiring box so that they
do not touch the back of the meter.
• Apply silicon gel to the RJ-11 connections on the meter and thecontroller for maximum protection from corrosion.

Installation Safety Precautions (Remote Meter)
WARNING:
Indicates a potentially dangerous condition. Use extreme
caution when performing this task.

!

CAUTION:
Indicates a critical procedure for safe and proper operation of the controller.
NOTE:
Indicates a procedure or function that is important for thesafe and proper operation of the controller.

Safety Information• Read all of the instructions and cautions in the manual before
beginning installation.
• There are no user serviceable parts inside the TriStar Meter 2. Do
not disassemble or attempt to repair.
• There are no fuses or disconnects inside the TriStar Meter 2. Do
not attempt to repair.

4

Important Safety Information• Disconnect all power sources from the controller before opening
the conduit box to connect the meter.
• Mount the TriStar Meter 2 indoors. Prevent exposure to the elements and do not allow water to enter the meter.
• Protect the RJ-11 wiring with grommets, conduit, and wire clips asnecessary.
• Apply silicon gel to the RJ-11 connections on the meter and thecontroller for maximum protection from corrosion.

About this ManualThis manual provides detailed installation and usage instructions for the TriStar Meter 2 digital meters. Only qualified
electricians and technicians who are familiar with solar systemdesign and wiring practices should install the TriStar Meter 2.
The usage information in this manual is intended for the system owner/operator.

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual52.0 Meter Description
TriStar controllers are technically advanced and professional
solar battery chargers and load controllers. Two digital LCD
meters are available for the TriStar family of controllers, andtheir displays are identical. One version is mounted on thecontroller; the other is mounted in a remote location.
This manual will help you to become familiar with the TriStar
meters’ features and capabilities. Some of these follow:• Intertek ETL Recognized for use with Morningstar’s TriStar familyof charge controllers• Complies with CE and LVD standards• Suitable for 12, 24, 48 Vdc systems• Fully protected from wiring faults• Controller-mounted and remote versions can be used together• Extended LCD temperature rating (-20oC to +70oC)• Multilingual display (English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish)• Displays aggregate system data from multiple TriStar controllers• Manual Ah resets and equalization control for individual controllers and for multi-controller systems• Diagnostic capabilities• View internal logged data stored in TriStar controllers that have
datalogging capability• Remote version supplied with 30m (98.4 ft), cable may be shortened if needed• Connections are by standard RJ-11 6-position modular plugs• 5-year standard warranty

2.1 Meter Versions
This manual covers two standard versions of a digital LCD
meter that can be used with the TriStar family of solar controllers.
Version TS-M-2:
This local meter is provided as an assembly that replaces the
TriStar front access cover. The TS-M-2 meter mounts to the
TriStar controller.
Version TS-RM-2:
This remote meter is provided with a mounting plate and 30m(98.4 ft) of cable. It is identical to the TS-M-2 version exceptthat the TS-RM-2 version can be mounted at some distancefrom the controller.
Both meters can display the full range of operating and diagnostic information for the TriStar’s battery charging, load anddiversion operating modes.

2.2 General Use
The meter will display a great deal of information about the
TriStar controller and the operation of your system. In addition, the meters enable manual functions and controller diagnostics. These capabilities will increase your confidence thatthe system is working properly and will help you to improvesystem reliability, battery life, and system performance. It is
worth the time getting to know your meter!
The organization of the display screens is described in Section

6

Meter Description

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual74.0. It is easy to move around the various display areas andto scroll up or down, and left or right using the four pushbuttons as indicated below:

3.0 Installation
The TriStar meters can be added to the controller when it isfirst installed, or at anytime after the controller has been inservice.

3.1 General Information
LEFT

RIGHT

UP

DOWN

Due to power requirements, there is a limit of two meters thatcan be used with a single TriStar controller. There is also alimit of five meters per MeterBus network. Any combination of
local and remote meter is permitted. Only one meter can havean active backlight at any given time.

The installation steps will differ depending on the number of
TriStar controllers in the system.
For Single TriStar Systems:• Mount the meter to the TriStar (TS-M-2) or in a remote location(TS-RM-2)• Connect the meter cable to the RJ-11 connectors• adjust the meter settings

For Systems with 2 or More TriStar Controllers:• Use a meter or MSView PC software to adjust the MeterBus address of each TriStar controller in the system.
• Mount the meter to the TriStar (TS-M-2) or in a remote location(TS-RM-2).
• Connect the meter(s) and controllers to a HUB-1 (sold separately)• adjust the meter settings
NOTE:
A TriStar meter may be connected to each TriStar in a
multi-TriStar system without the use of a HUB-1. Thisconfiguration will not provide total system information;
each meter will only display the information for one
controller.

8

Meter Description

TriStar MPPT Operator’s Manual

9

NOTE:
Both meters are rated for indoor use only.

socket on the TriStar. Looking at the back of the meter,connect to the left RJ-11 socket.

There is a limit of two meters per single TriStar, five meters per
MeterBus network. A single controller cannot power 3 meters.
When connected to a TriStar, the meter will automaticallydisplay the correct operating mode (Solar Charging / Load /Diversion). No adjustments to the meter are required.
If replacing or extending the meter cable, see Section 5.2.

3.2 TS-M-2 Install (single TriStar)
To install the local controller-mounted meter to a single TriStar,
follow these steps in order:!

CAUTION: Risk of Shock
Disconnect all power to the TriStar. The meter will
not be damaged if connected with power, but powershould be disconnected before the access cover isremoved for safety.

!

CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Do not allow the local meter to hang or dangle fromthe RJ-11 cable when connected to the TriStar. The
resulting stress on the cable could damage the meteror connectors.

Figure 3-1. Meter connections

1. Use a large phillips screwdriver to remove the 4 accesscover screws.
2. Connect the RJ-11 cable to the meter and to the RJ-11

10

Installation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual

11

NOTE:
If the cable is connected to the wrong RJ-11 metersocket, there will not be any damage and the LCD
display will remain blank. Move the cable connection
to the other socket.

4. Mount the meter to the wall or cabinet. If a 2-gang box is
not being used, cut a hole in the wall or cabinet sized per
the TS-RM-2 dimensions provided on the inside cover ofthis manual.

3. Carefully mount the TS-M-2 cover on the controller. Arrange the RJ-11 cable so that it does not interfere withthe pushbutton operation or obscure the view of the LED
indicators. Fasten the meter using the same 4 screws that
secured the blank access cover.

NOTE:
2 remote meters can be installed if a TS-M-2 meter is
not attached to the TriStar controller.

!

CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Do not force the cover into place. If the large powerwires are too high in the wiring compartment, pushing
the meter onto the wires will damage the meter.

3.3 TS-RM-2 Install (single TriStar)
The remote meter is designed to mount into a standard duplex(2-gang) box, or flush against a wall or cabinet with a proper
sized hole.
1. Connect one end of the 30 meter cable to the TriStar RJ-11
socket (or to the open socket if a TS-M-2 meter is mounted
to the TriStar).
2. Connect the other end of the cable to the left socket (looking at the back) of the remote meter. See the diagram in
2.2.
3. Confirm the meter is working before mounting the meter.

12

Installation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual133.4 Multi-TriStar Network Setup
Multiple TriStar controllers can be networked together using a
Morningstar MeterBus Communication Hub (HUB-1) and RJ11 cables. Networking controllers together on a MeterBus network allows one or more TriStar digital meters to communicate
with all controllers on the network. This enables the display of
total system data on the meter. Additionally, each individual
controller’s data may be viewed in separate menus.
To install either version meter in a MeterBus network, follow
these steps in order:

Step 1 - Program Unique MeterBus Addresses
Each device on the MeterBus network must have a unique
MeterBus address. All TriStars have a default MeterBus address of 1. Choose a controller to be controller #1 and markit with a pen or sticker. This controller will keep the default
MeterBus address 1.
There are two ways to program the remaining TriStars withunique addresses. TriStar PWM controllers can only be modified using Morningstar MSView PC software. TriStar MPPT
controllers can be modified with MSView or directly from the
TriStar Meter 2 Advanced Setup menu. Instructions for bothmethods are provided.
Modify the MeterBus Address with the TriStar Meter 2
1. Connect a TriStar local or remote meter to the second
TriStar in the system.
2. Wait for the meter to power up and detect the connected
TriStar. Once the meter has fully started, scroll to the bottom

14

Installationof the main menu to the Logged Data screen. Press andhold the down pushbutton for 3 seconds until the Advanced
Setup menu appears. See the Advanced Setup menu topic
in section 4.2 for more details on how to access this menu.
3. In the Advanced Setup menu, scroll down to the MeterBus
Address screen. Scroll left or right to increment/decrement
the MeterBus address to the desired value.
4. When finished, push the up pushbutton to exit the menu.
The LEDs on the controller should display a fault sequence
indicating that memory has been modified.
5. Cycle power to the controller to reset the fault condition.
6. Disconnect the meter from the second controller. Repeat
steps 1 - 5 for each additional TriStar in the system, programming each controller with addresses 3, 4, 5, etc. A
maximum of 15 TriStar controllers are possible on a single
MeterBus network.
NOTE:
The Morningstar Relay Driver has a default factory
MeterBus address of 9. If a RelayDriver is present in
the system, skip address 9 when programming the
TriStars and resume numbering at address 10.

Modify the MeterBus Address using MSView PC Software
Morningstar’s MSView PC software is available for free on
our website. Download the latest version and install it. Follow
these steps in order to change the MeterBus address:
1. Open MSView and select the setup wizard for your model
TriStar controller from the Tools menu.
2. If custom settings are already programmed, read the set-

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual

15

tings out first and then edit them. If one of the standard battery settings is used (most common), click “Create New”.
3. Click “Next” until the Communications Settings dialog appears. Change the MeterBus address to the desired address.
4. Click “Next” until the end of the wizard. Then click the Program button to load the new settings. Connect the TriStar
with a serial cable to the computer, choose the connection
settings, and click “Next” to program the controller.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 for each TriStar in the system, programming each controller with addresses 3, 4, 5, etc. A maximumof 15 TriStar controllers are possible on a single MeterBus
network.
NOTE:
The controller does not have to be configured touse custom settings. When the MeterBus address ischanged in custom settings memory, the programmed
address is used for all modes of operation.

Step 2 - MeterBus Network Connections
After all TriStar controllers have been programmed withunique MeterBus addresses, the controllers must be networked together using one or more MeterBus Communication
Hubs (HUB-1). Be careful not to overload a single TriStar in
the system with too many meters, hubs, or other MeterBus devices. If the system will have multiple meters, wire each meterto a different TriStar. If possible, do not connect a meter to thesame TriStar that provides power to the hub(s).
Following are a list of network rules and example networks.
Network Rules
A maximum of 15 devices are allowed on a single MeterBus network. TriStar digital meters are not included in the device count.
Ports 1 - 4 on the MeterBus Communication Hub are isolated
ports. There is no power output on these ports.
Ports A & B are not isolated from each other, but are isolated fromports 1-4.
A TriStar must be connected to Input Power Port B to power thehub. When linking multiple hubs, Power Out Port A is connected
to Input Power Port B of the following hub. (see Example Network# 3, pg. 20)
DO NOT connect a TriStar to Power Out Port A
Connect each additional TriStar in the system to ports 1 through 4
Avoid connecting more than two Hubs, Meters, Relay Drivers
or other devices to a single TriStar meter port. See the example
networks for more details.

16

Installation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual17

Example Network #1

Example Network #2
TriStar

1

1
TS-RM-2

TS-RM-2

TriStar

E HUB
METER

MeterBus Communication Hub

E HUB
METER
MeterBus Communication Hub

MODEL: HUB-1
FOR INDOORUSE ONLY

TriStarWith
TS-M-2

FOR USE WITH
MORNINGSTARMETERBUS NETWORKSONLYMODEL: HUB-1
FOR INDOORUSE ONLY

TriStar

2

Relay
Driver3

Figure 3-3. A medium-sized network with 3 TriStars, 2 meters, and a
Relay Driver.

2
TriStarFigure 3-2. A simple two TriStar system with Remote Meter.
• TriStar 1 provides power both to a hub and to a single Remote
Meter connected to Output Power Port A.
• TriStar 2 is connected to Port 1 on the Hub and is electricallyisolated from TriStar 1.
NOTE:
Electrical isolation protects controllers, cables, andother system equipment from damaged due to poor ordisconnected system grounds.

18

FOR USE WITH
MORNINGSTARMETERBUS NETWORKS
ONLY

Installation• TriStar 1 provides power to the hub and Remote Meter.
• TriStar 2 powers the Relay Driver and TriStar 3 powers the Local
Meter. It is good practice to distribute the network meters andRelay Driver as shown to avoid loading a single TriStar with all of
the network accessories.
• All three TriStars are isolated from each other in this system.
NOTE:
Information is shared across the entire MeterBus
network. A meter can be connected anywhere in thesystem and will always show full aggregate system
information as well as information about each controller on the network. This is true regardless of themeter model (TS-M-2 / TS-RM-2).

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual

19

Example Network #3

4.0 Operation
2

1
Link OutX

3

MEETERHUB

MeterBus Communication Hub

4

Link InFOR USE WITH
MORNINGSTARMETERBUS NETWORKSONLYYMODEL: HUB-1
FOR INDOORUSE ONLY

5

6

7

E HUB
METER

MeterBus Communication Hub

8

The four pushbuttons are in the shape of directional arrows.
Changing a display screen will be in the direction of the arrow(up or down / left or right).

Link OutFOR USE WITH
MORNINGSTARMETERBUS NETWORKSONLYZ

MODEL: HUB-1
FOR INDOORUSE ONLY

9

10

E HUB
METER
MeterBus Communication Hub

11

The information displayed and the organization of the meter
screens differs depending on the number of TriStar controllers
connected to the meter.

FOR USE WITH
MORNINGSTARMETERBUS NETWORKSONLYMODEL: HUB-1
FOR INDOORUSE ONLY

12

13

TriStarFigure 3-4. A large multi-hub network with 3 hubs, 13 TriStars, and 2
meters.

The exact menu structure for each supported controller is provided on separate meter maps included with the TS-M-2 andTS-RM-2 meters. This section discusses how to use the meterand adjust settings. It also covers important details about themenu structure.

• TriStar 1 provides power to hubs X & Y. Do not daisy-chain morethan 2 hubs.
• TriStar 2 provides power to hub Z to avoid overloading TriStar 1
with three hubs.
• Power Out Port A (Link Out) of hub Z is connected to Port 4 on
hub Y so that communication is maintained between all 3 hubs.
• TriStars 3 & 9 each power a TriStar Local Meter.
• All TriStars are electrically isolated.

20

Installation

TriStar MPPT Operator’s Manual214.1 Backlighting

4.2 Single TriStar System

The first push of any of the four meter pushbuttons will turn on
the backlight. The backlight will remain on for 5 minutes fromthe last button press.
NOTE:
When turning on the backlight, there is no change inthe display. The second press of any pushbutton willthen change the display screen. This applies to bothTS-M-2 and TS-RM-2 meter versions.
NOTE:
Only one meter will be backlit at a time. Pushing a button on a second meter on the network will automatically turn off the backlight on the first meter.

If the meter is connected to a TriStar PWM controller, thebacklighting will begin to dim when battery voltage falls below
12.7 Volts. Backlighting will continue to dim proportionally tothe battery voltage down to 10.0 Volts.
The backlight draws very low power and would consume lessthan 1 amp-hour of energy if it were turned on for a full 24hour period.

The following section describes the TS-M-2 and TS-RM-2operation in systems with one or more meters connected to asingle TriStar controller. See section 4.3 for information pertaining to meters connected in multi-TriStar MeterBus networks.

Startup Displays
When the meter is plugged in and powered on, a sequence ofstartup screens will be displayed. Figure 4-1 below shows thestartup sequence and provides a description of the information
displayed on each screen. The startup screens are only displayed once when the meter is first powered on. This information can also be found under “TriStar Settings” during normal
operation.
Searching...

Meter is searching the networkfor devices.

01
DevicesMorningstar Corp

Reports the number of devices
found on the network.

©2009 v01.01.01
SN:09300001

Meter firmware version andcontroller serial number©2009 v01.01.01
HW v01.01 SW v01

Meter firmware version andcontroller hardware/software version.

(Operating Displays)

Startup ends on one of the operating displays.

Figure 4-1. Startup screens

22

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual23

Operating Displays

Manual Operations

Operating Display screens show the general operating information for the controller and cumulative information collected
over time. These display screens are configured in a continuous circular loop and can be quickly accessed by scrolling
either left or right.
The number of Operating Displays and the exact information
displayed in each screen varies depending on the TriStar controller model and mode of operation (charge, load, diversion,etc). Refer to the meter map for the particular TriStar model
purchased for detailed display information.
Figure 4-2 below shows an example layout of Operating Displays.

Screens located below the Operating Displays provide for various resets and manual functions. Additional display screens
for resets and manual functions can be found in the Diagnostics menu. Figure 4-3 shows the location of the Manual Operation displays in the menu.

54.3V
1323W

25C

34.5AVFLOATA

50.4V
56.8V

82.5AhT
4kWhT

Operating
Display
Reset Ah(Hold
2 sec)
Equalize START(Hold
2 sec)

Operating
Display}

Operating
Display

ManualOperations

Diagnositics(Press)Reset Ah(Hold
2 sec)

TriStar Settings(Press)Equalize START(Hold
2 sec)

Logged Data
(Press)Diagnositics(Press)Advanced Setup(Press)Figure 4-3. Manual Operation displays
TriStar Settings(Press)Below is a full list of possible Manual Operation screens thatcan be displayed. Only operations that are relevant to the
TriStar model and mode are displayed on the meter.

Logged Data
(Press)Advanced Setup(Press)Figure 4-2. Example Operating Displays

24

Operation

Reset Amp-hours
This display screen can be used to reset the reset-able Ahvalue. Additionally, this operation will reset the battery minimum and battery maximum values displayed in the Operating
Displays. Hold the right arrow pushbutton for 2 seconds and

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual

25

all three values will be reset to zero.
Equalize Start/Stop
Use this screen to initiate and terminate a manual equalization charge. Holding the right arrow for 2 seconds will start theequalization charge. Hold again for 2 seconds and equalization will stop. The SOC LEDs on the TriStar controller should
flash the equalize start/stop sequence as defined in the controller Operator’s Manual.

Reset Total Amp-hours (Diagnostics menu)
This display will reset the total Ah and total kWh counters to
zero. These values are normally not reset. However, if a newbattery is installed for example, the owner may wish to reset
these counters.

NOTE:
If the TriStar is configured for a battery type that does
not have an equalize charge stage and an equalize
operation is requested on the meter, the meter will
display an “Error!” message indicating that an equalization charge cannot occur.

This Manual Operation screen will only be displayed for
TriStars in charge control mode.
Load On/Off
Press and hold the right arrow pushbutton for 2 seconds totoggle the load on or off. If the controller is in low voltage disconnect (LVD), the load will reconnect for 10 minutes and thenturn off automatically. There is no limit to the number of loadreconnects in LVD.
This Manual Operation screen will only be displayed for
TriStars in load control mode.
Battery Service (Diagnostics menu)
If battery service was performed early, this screen can be used
to reset the service interval back to zero. The battery service
reminder function is only enabled in custom settings.

26

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual27

Diagnostics Menu
The Diagnostics Menu lists faults, alarms, and technical diagnostic information about the controller. This information may
be useful for troubleshooting problems with the controller orsolar system.
Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Manual Operation
Display
Manual Operation
Display
Diagnositics(Press)TriStar Settings(Press)
Logged Data
(Press)Advanced Setup(Press)(to Return)Diagnostics
Faults:NONE
Alarms:
NONE
Battery--- C
54.13V23.45A
Battery Sense
53.85V
valid
State:
Float
Solar:
66.42V
Last Eq:
22d
total:
11357Ah
reset:
1234.5Ah
TriStar:
35 C
123456 hours
Battery Service
14d( 2s reset)
Reset Ah total
(Hold
2sec)

Figure 4-4. Diagnostics Menu

meter map for the particular model purchased for detailed
display information.
Faults & Alarms
If a “Fault” or “Alarm” condition flashes on one of the main
Operating Displays, navigate down to the Diagnostics Menu
for a list of existing faults or alarms. The faults and alarms lists
are always displayed on the first 2 screens of the Diagnostics
Menu. Use the left and right pushbuttons to scroll througheach list of faults and alarms, if any exist.

Using the Diagnostic Data
A full set of operating information is displayed below the fault
and alarm display screens. These values are real-time andcan change while the screen is being displayed. Following area few notes about the diagnostic data:• Battery temperature is displayed only if a Remote Temperature
Sensor is connected to the controller.
• Battery Voltage is measured at the controller battery terminals.
• Battery Sense displays the actual battery voltage measured with
the Battery Sense wires. If sense wires are not connected, thescreen will display “invalid”.
• Solar Voltage is measured at the solar input terminals.
• Last Eq reports the number of days since the last equalization
charge.
• TriStar temperature is the heatsink temperature on the controller.
• TriStar hours are the length of time the controller has been in
operation..

The exact information displayed in the Diagnostics Menu
screens varies depending on the TriStar controller model andmode of operation (charge, load, diversion, etc). Refer to the28

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual

29

TriStar Settings Menu
The TriStar Settings menu provides the following functions:• confirms the setup and settings switches (DIP switches) are configured correctly• provides hardware and software version numbers for technicalsupport• screens to select a language or change the units of temperature
values on the meter
Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Manual Operation
Display
Diagnositics)(Press

Logged Data
(Press)Advanced Setup(Press)

The second display screen provides the meter hardware andsoftware version. Following the version displays is a list of
screens that provide specific information describing the operating mode and charging / load settings.
This information can be used to confirm that the controller has
been adjusted and setup as desired. If any of these values do
not seem correct, review the TriStar Operator’s Manual andconfirm that the settings switches are configured correctly.

Manual Operation
Display

TriStar Settings(Press)Information Displayed
The first display screen shows the TriStar controller’s hardware and software revision as well as the controller serial
number. These numbers are helpful if technical support isrequired.

(
to Return)
TriStar Settings
HW v01.01 SW v01
Serial: 09330001
Meter v01.01.01
Mode:
Charge48V (fixed)
Battery #: 7
Float:
53.60V
Absorption
61.60V
MPPT
Equalize: 64.00V
Manual only
Language:
EnglishUnits:°C

Language and Temperature Selections
The bottom two display screens provide for selecting a language or different temperature units.
Scrolling left or right on the Language screen provides selection of one of five languages:
•
•
•
•
•

EnglishFrenchGermanSpanishPortuguese

Scrolling left or right on the Units screen allows the user tochoose between °C and °F temperature display on the meter.

Figure 4-5. TriStar Settings Menu

30

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual31

Logged Data Menu

Advanced Setup Menu

NOTE:
Not all TriStar models support data logging or viewing
logged data on the TriStar Meter 2. Refer to the meter
map for the particular model purchased for detailed
display information or consult the controller Operator’s
Manual.

The Logged Data menu displays select operating data thathas been collected and stored in the TriStar controller’s internal memory. The structure of the Logged Data menu is shownin Figure 4-6. Use the down pushbutton to scroll through thelist of logged values. The right pushbutton scrolls back in time.
The menu will wrap back to the beginning in both directions.
Operating
Display

Operating
Display

The Advanced Setup menu allows the user to modify certain
operating settings. To enter the Advanced Setup menu, scroll
down to the last display screen in the main menu. Press andhold the down pushbutton for 3 seconds. The Advanced Setup
entry display will appear. Press the right pushbutton to enter
the menu.
Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Manual Operation
Display

Manual Operation
Display

Diagnositics(Press)Diagnositics)(PressTriStar Settings(Press)
Logged Data
(Press)Advanced Setup(Press)Operating
Display

Manual Operation
Display

Manual Operation
Display

TriStar Settings(Press)(to Return)Logged Data
Today:
Battery
51.2 Vmax
Today:
Battery
45.5 Vmin
Today:
Battery1234.5 Ah

Day: -01 Battery
51.2 Vmax
Day: -01 Battery
45.5 Vmin
Day: -01 Battery
1234.5 Ah

Day:-XXX Battery
51.2 Vmax
Day:-XXX Battery
45.5 Vmin
Day:-XXX Battery
1234.5 Ah

Today:

FaultsDay:

AlarmsDay:

Day:-XXX
Faults
NONE
Day:-XXX
AlarmsNONE

NONE
Today:NONE

Today’s Data

-01
Faults
NONE-01
Alarms
NONE

Yesterday’s Data

Figure 4-6. Logged Data menu

32

NOTE:
Not all TriStar models support Advanced Setup on the
TriStar Meter 2. Refer to the meter map for the particular model purchased for detailed display information or
consult the controller Operator’s Manual.

Operation

Data X Days Ago

Logged Data
(Press)( 3 seconds )Advanced Setup(Press)(to Return)
Advanced Setup
Meter address
1

Other
X

ValuesFigure 4-7. Advanced Setup menu

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual33

The setting values displayed in the Advanced Setup menu
screens varies depending on the TriStar controller model andmode of operation (charge, load, diversion, etc). Refer to themeter map for the particular model purchased for detailed
display information. Not all TriStar models support settings
adjustment through the TriStar Meter 2.
For each value in the menu, use the left and right pushbuttons
to modify the setting. The setting will be saved when the up
or down pushbutton is pressed. Some settings may fault thecontroller when modified. The controller will need to be resetby removing and then reconnecting power.

4.3 TriStar MeterBus Networks
The following section describes the additional meter screensdisplayed on the TS-M-2 and TS-RM-2 in systems with two or
more TriStar controllers on a MeterBus network. Section 4.2
covers the individual controller menus.

Startup Displays
When the meter is plugged in and powered on, a sequence ofstartup screens will be displayed. Figure 4-8 below shows thestartup sequence and provides a description of the information
displayed on each screen. The startup screens are only displayed once when the meter is first powered on. This information can also be found under “System Settings” in the Systemmenu during normal operation.
Searching...

Meter is searching the networkfor devices.

02
DevicesMorningstar Corp

Reports the number of devices
found on the network.

©2009 v01.01.01
Morningstar Corp

Meter firmware version.

SYSTEM

Startup ends on the “System” screenin the network device list.
Figure 4-8. Startup Displays for Multi-TriStar Networks

34

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual35

Network Device List

System Information Menu

The Network Device List is a top level menu that contains ascreen for each controller on the network. There is also an additional “SYSTEM” screen that provides system-wide information.

The System Information menu displays the following:

An example Network Device List is shown in figure 4-9 below.
The example system has two controllers: a charge controller
and a TS-45 in Load mode.
SystemSystemInformation
Menu

TS-MPPT-45-150V
Charge (01)TS-MPPT-45-150V
Information
Menu

TS-45
Load (02)TS-45
Information
Menu• Operating Displays show aggregate system data
• Manual Operation screens for system-wide control• System Settings menu to adjust meter settings

SystemController #1
Top Menu

Controller #X
Top Menu

Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Operating
Display

Reset Ah
(Hold
2sec)
Equalize START(Hold
2 sec)

Figure 4-9. Network Device List

Turn Load OFF(Hold
2 sec)

Each device screen displays the model number, the mode ofoperation, and the MeterBus address. Pressing the down button on any of the device screens will advance to the controller
information menu. The information menu varies depending on
the TriStar controller model and mode of operation (charge,
load, diversion, etc). The structure of the controller information
menus is described in Section 4.2. Refer to the meter map forthe particular model purchased for detailed display information.

System Settings(Press)(to Return)
System Settings
Meter Version
v01.01.01
Language
EnglishUnits
C

Figure 4-10. System Information menu.

Pressing the down pushbutton on the “SYSTEM” screen will
advance to the System Information menu. The System Information menu is a special menu that is described in the next
topic.

36

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual37System Operating Displays
The quantity and type of Operating Displays in the System
Information menu depends on the controllers in the system.

ing Displays list.
Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Diversion Watts

If one or more charge controllers are in the system, the Operating Displays in Figure 4-11 will be included in the Operating
Displays list.

50.4V
227W

23C

4.5A
DIV

Total System Diversion Current

Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Diversion Amp-hours

50.4V
23C
5.0Ah

4.5A
DIV

Total System Diversion Current

Figure 4-13. Total system diversion Operating Displays

Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Charging Watts

50.4V
2243W

23C

44.5A
CHRG

Total System Charge Current

Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Charging Amp-hours

50.4V
23C
160.7Ah

44.5A
CHRG

Total System Charge Current

Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Charging Watt-hours Daily

50.4V
23C
6560Wh

44.5A
CHRG

Total System Charge Current

Figure 4-11. Total system charge Operating Displays

If one or more load controllers are in the system, the Operating Displays in Figure 4-12 will be included in the Operating
Displays list.

System Manual Operation Displays
Display screens located below the Operating Displays provide
for various resets and manual functions. These commands arebroadcast across the network to all controllers. See the Manual Operations topic in Section 4.2 for more information.

System Settings Menu
This menu displays the meter hardware and software version
and also provides adjustments for the meter language andtemperature units.

Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Load Watts

50.4V
811W

23C

16.1A
LOAD

Total System Load Current

Battery Temperature
Battery Voltage
Total System Load Amp-hours

50.4V
23C
45.2Ah

16.1A
LOAD

Total System Load Current

Figure 4-12. Total system load Operating Displays

If one or more diversion controllers are in the system, the Operating Displays in Figure 4-13 will be included in the Operat-

38

Operation

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual395.0 Troubleshooting
The TriStar Meter 2 displays data transmitted digitally fromthe TriStar controller(s). There should not be any conflicts
between the values displayed on the meter and informationcollected from the controller through other communicationinterfaces. For this reason, the meter troubleshooting focuses
on mechanical and electrical issues with the meter and meter
connection.

5.1 Troubleshooting Steps
There is no display:• the RJ-11 cable may be plugged into the wrong connector socket- move to the other socket on the meter• the connector may be loose in the socket - remove and reconnect,press firmly until the plug “clicks”• there may be a break in the RJ-11 cable wire (see section 5.2)
• battery voltage may be too low, check the TriStar Operator’s
Manual for minimum operating voltage.

Backlight is dim or does not light:• if there is enough ambient light in the room, the backlighting may
not be noticeable• battery voltage may be too low, check the TriStar Operator’s
Manual for minimum operating voltage.

• if there are substantial differences between the map and the display, either the wrong map is used or the controller is not configured for the correct operating mode

The meter does not respond to button pushes• press the pushbutton down harder - it will not break• try other pushbuttons to confirm one or more are working• if others work, the faulty button may have dirt on the contact• to clean:disconnect the power
remove the 2 Phillips screws that fasten the meter to thecover plate
remove the meter assembly from the yellow button padclean the pushbutton contacts and circuit board contacts
with alcohol and a cotton swab.
reassemble the meter

Dirt is trapped between the display and the label window• to clean:disconnect the power
remove the 2 Phillips screws that fasten the meter to thecover plate
remove the meter assembly from the yellow button padclean the label window and screen with a damp clothand dry.
reassemble the meter

The meter map provided does not match the meter display• the meter map may not match the meter display due to software
revisions, the latest maps are available for download on our website

40

Troubleshooting

TriStar Meter 2 Operator’s Manual415.2 RJ-11 Cable Repair
The meter connecting cable is a standard 6-conductor telephone cable with RJ-11 modular connectors. If the cableor connectors are damaged, they can either be repaired or
replaced.
A standard flat 6-wire phone cable should be used. With the
RJ-11 connectors, the cable assembly appears as shown infigure 5-1.
11

6.0 Warranty
The TriStar Meter 2 is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship fora period of FIVE (5) years from the date of shipment to the original end user. Morningstar
will, at its option, repair or replace any such defective products.

CLAIM PROCEDURE
Before requesting warranty service, check the Operator’s Manual to be certain that
there is a fault with the TriStar Meter 2. Return the defective product to your authorized
Morningstar distributor with shipping charges prepaid. Provide proof of date and place ofpurchase. To obtain service under this warranty, the returned products must include themodel, serial number and detailed reason for the failure. This information is critical to a
rapid disposition of your warranty claim. Morningstar will pay the return shipping charges
if the repairs are covered by the warranty.

WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONSThis warranty does not apply under the following conditions:• Damage by accident, negligence, abuse or improper use.
• Unauthorized product modification or attempted repair• Damage occurring during shipment

Figure 5-1. Meter cable assembly

A 4-wire cable can also be used for shorter distances.

THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN
LIEU OF ALL OTHERS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. MORNINGSTAR SPECIFICALLYDISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. No Morningstar distributor, agent or employee is authorized tomake any modification or extension to this warranty.
MORNINGSTAR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO LOST PROFITS, DOWNTIME, GOODWILL ORDAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT OR PROPERTY.

8 Pheasant Run
Newtown PA 18940
Email: info@morningstarcorp.com
www.morningstarcorp.com

42

Troubleshooting

TriStar MPPT Operator’s Manual437.0 Technical Specifications
Electrical
Self consumption

7.5 mA (not backlit)
42.5 mA with backlighting

Mechanical
Mounting plate dimensions
Plate material
Meter weight
Connector typeTS-M-2 cable
TS-RM-2 cable
Cable temperature
Environmental
Operating Temperature
LCD temp. rating
Storage Temperature
Humidity
Tropicalization

116 x 116 mm(4.56 x 4.56”)
powder coated steel
0.23 kg / 0.5 lb TS-M-2
0.18 kg / 0.4 lb TS-RM-2
RJ-11 (6-pin)0.13 m / 5 in - 6 conductor
30 m / 98.4 ft - 6 conductor
60°C rating-40°C to +60°C-20°C to +70°C-55C to +85C
5-95 % (NC)
conformal coating on bothsides of circuit board

Certifications
CE
RoHS
ETL Recognized Component
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Designed in the U.S.A.
Assembled in Taiwan.
MS-ZMAN-TSM2-01-A 09/09

44

Technical Specifications