Jack
Senior Member
The Zamp controller is a PWM controller, which is not as efficient as an MPPT controller which is somewhat more important in the the less than ideal sun Pacific NW. The Zamp is also only 12 V nominal input, so multiple solar panels must be connected in parallel. When connecting panels in parallel, you want the Vmp (typically 16 V to 19 V) voltage spec of the panels to be similar. The more the difference, the less the efficiency. Call Zamp to find out the Vmp of there 160 W panels. I did a few moths ago but I replaced my Za,p 160 W instead and I don't remember the Vmp.
The Hawk probably has 12 AWG wire, which can handle 320 W (20 A at 16 V).
If you decide to upgrade your charge controller, I strongly recommend the Victron 30/100 MPPT . It is a clear cut above Renogy, Zamp and the others. With bluetooth, the MPPT can be out of sight and you can still monitor its operation. If you get the $30 battery voltage and temperature monitor, distance from the battery is not important and 10 AWG will will be fine.
I do have 5 year old 160 W panel here in Portland to unload if you can figure out how to mount it at 26" wide. PM me if interested.
The Hawk probably has 12 AWG wire, which can handle 320 W (20 A at 16 V).
If you decide to upgrade your charge controller, I strongly recommend the Victron 30/100 MPPT . It is a clear cut above Renogy, Zamp and the others. With bluetooth, the MPPT can be out of sight and you can still monitor its operation. If you get the $30 battery voltage and temperature monitor, distance from the battery is not important and 10 AWG will will be fine.
I do have 5 year old 160 W panel here in Portland to unload if you can figure out how to mount it at 26" wide. PM me if interested.