Optimized digital Maximum Power Point Tracker implementation for satellites

Maximum Power Point Tracking MPPT for solar panels is critical for space applications where power saving gets the first priority with the availability of limited resources. Of the available methods for MPPT, the Perturb and Observe (P&O) method is accurate and simple to implement. In the MPPT design choosing the sampling time and duty cycle step size is important which determines its predictable operation during rapidly varying irradiance conditions. The paper talks about the state of the art design of MPPT converters with a digital closed loop control. A modular software programming algorithm was used which supports a ldquoPlug and Playrdquo feature. The detailed implementation of a MPPT converter for 10W solar panel using Texas Instruments TMS320F2808 Digital Signal Controller is shown in this paper.