Mutiple Charging Sources
Hi CapnBruce - Depending on the sophistication of the regulation, one source will quickly take over and this is usually the battery charger. That being said, I would typically run only one source of charge at a time if they are larger (such as alternator and shorepowered charger). Having two sources going is not a problem until one of the sources is shut down where the potential of a harmful voltage spike exists which can damage the alternator. As for alternate sources of charging (i.e. solar or wind), the State of Charge of the batteries and the acceptance rate of the battery determine how much current can flow into the battery and at what voltage. Having multiple sources is not a problem and a properly installed system will self regulate with the largest source tending to do the majority of the work. Best, Trevor
