How to Set Up 3 x 130w 12vdc Solar Panels for 24vdc with the Most Amps ?

[Fuss]

How would I best use 3 12v 130w solar panels to get 24v.
I guess that a mppt controller is a must.
Do I set them up in series for maximum volts and let the regulator bring it back to 24v?
Do I set 2 in parallel and the other in series to have less volts but more amps?
Do I set them all in parallel for even less volts but even more amps? (which then raises a question... can an mppt regulator step up the voltage from 12 to 24?)
Or is there an even better way?
Thanks John

[senormechanico]

Add the panel open circuit voltages to see if the controller can handle the open circuit voltage of the three panels. If so, put them in series.
A series parallel connection will not work unless you have four identical panels.

[s/v Jedi]

Yes John, connect in series and match the MPPT controller to handle the 36V nominal input and 24V output.

In addition, you will have to check the "max. open voltage" of the panels, multiply that by 3 (for three panels in series) and check if that is within the spec of the controller. It should, but check it anyway.

ciao!
Nick.

[Fuss]

Thanks very much Steve and Nick,
The forum is a great place for answers.... and to contribute something myself.... take a look at this from Morningstar.

Here's is a company that understands what questions people have.
A solar panel/ regulator calculator

Morningstar String Calculator