what is a Mate 3

[rickdemers]

Hi Guys
I had my outback fm 60 now for 4 years and now I read guys out on this forums with Mate's what does this Mate do , as I can sync two or three outbacks charge controller in parallel together , why the added cost and more components

[provo]

Hi Guys
I had my outback fm 60 now for 4 years and now I read guys out on this forums with Mate's what does this Mate do , as I can sync two or three outbacks charge controller in parallel together , why the added cost and more components

Do you have one or more Outback inverters? Settings and programming for the Outback inverters can only be done through a Mate.

[raysun]

Hi Guys
I had my outback fm 60 now for 4 years and now I read guys out on this forums with Mate's what does this Mate do , as I can sync two or three outbacks charge controller in parallel together , why the added cost and more components

The Mate is a system controller that brings advanced features to a system comprised of Outback inverters, charge controllers, battery monitor, and communications hub.

The FM charge controllers can operate autonomously and don't strictly require a Mate to function.

For a single FM60, there is little reason to invest in a Mate.

[rickdemers]

I will be adding a flex 80 to my flex 60 , can i get away from using a Mate, what to stay simple

[raysun]

I will be adding a flex 80 to my flex 60 , can i get away from using a Mate, what to stay simple

Yes, the charge controllers operate autonomously, and execute their charging routines using common control points, namely - battery voltage.

If both controllers are given the same programming, and calibrated to the battery voltage, they will act in concert to charge the battery.

With two controllers, be sure the combined charging current doesn't exceed the battery's maximum charge rate. If there is potential to do so, the chargers' output current can be reduced.

[sodamo]

I will be adding a flex 80 to my flex 60 , can i get away from using a Mate, what to stay simple

Staying simple could also mean giving up function. A good system can be more than the sum of its parts. A Mate 3 can give you internet accessibility/control.
Do you have a Hub, inverter, batteries, battery monitor, on or off grid? Listing your system in your profile usually results in better info.

Also usually better to consolidate questions regarding a single system, the point being you really want system answers.