Many solar controllers include a set of load output terminals in addition to the panel input and battery output terminals. These terminals typically serve as a low voltage disconnect to protect the battery from being over discharged. When the solar controller detects the battery voltage has dropped below a set value (check the owner's manual to see your controller's disconnect voltage), anything attached to the load output terminals will be disconnected. Some models of solar controller might also offer the ability to automatically cut loads a few hours after sunset.
The load output terminals typically have only a small current carrying capacity and work best when paired with a small load, such as DC lighting. Because it is voltage sensitive, the low voltage disconnect system cannot be relied upon to protect lithium batteries. While the load output function of a solar controller can be useful to automate lights or protect a battery in a fixed off-grid application, its limitations prevent it from being useful in most mobile applications.
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