Steca Tarom 4545
(2 reviews)
45A of charge, a graphic LCD screen and a 12-year data logger: the Steca Tarom 4545 reliably drives good-sized 12/24V solar setups.
Characteristics
- Type: Hybrid PWM, 45A
- System voltage: 12V (24V) automatic
- Screen: Backlit graphic LCD
- Data logger: 12 years of history
- 45A, LCD screen and 2 programmable contacts
Detailed overview: Steca Tarom 4545 PWM charge controller
The Steca Tarom 4545 is a professional solar charge controller, designed and developed in Germany by Steca (now part of the Kontron/Katek group). It links the solar panels to the battery of a 12V or 24V setup, with automatic voltage detection, and targets good-sized systems that outgrow a basic entry-level controller.
Its technology is PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) with multi-stage charging, not MPPT: the controller connects panels and battery directly rather than converting voltage, a simpler but equally reliable technology for this type of setup. It delivers up to 45A of charge current, with a maximum panel open-circuit voltage under 60V, letting it handle roughly 700W of panels at 12V and 1400W at 24V.
Its backlit graphic LCD screen is a real asset day to day: it shows solar output, voltage, current and battery charge status through intuitive icons, without needing a smartphone. The built-in data logger keeps up to twelve years of output and consumption data, viewable directly on screen or via the open Steca UART interface. Two programmable multi-function contacts can automate dusk lighting, starting a backup generator, or switching on a load when there is surplus energy, with up to four timers programmable per weekday.
The battery charge profile (lead-acid type) is set directly from the on-screen menu, with multi-stage charging and optional temperature compensation (Steca PA TS-S sensor sold separately). The enclosure carries an IP31 rating, suited to a sheltered technical installation (electrical cabinet, plant room, enclosed motorhome), but not to direct outdoor exposure. It operates from 14 °F to 140 °F (-10 °C to +60 °C).
Its limits are those of its category: a price well above a small entry-level PWM controller, PWM rather than MPPT technology despite the premium positioning, and an IP31 rating that calls for at least minimal shelter. But for a good-sized 12/24V solar setup with a genuine need for data logging and automation, the Steca Tarom 4545 remains a robust, reliable reference.
Full specifications
Detailed characteristics (EAN: 4250852801003)
Solar section
| Max solar input?Maximum connectable PV power. | 1400 W |
|---|
Durability and format
| Ingress protection?Water and dust resistance (IP rating). | IP31 |
|---|---|
| Weight?Weight of the battery. | 1.8 lb (0.8 kg) |
| Dimensions (L × W × H)?Length × width × height, in millimetres. | 8.6 × 5.3 × 2.6 in (218 × 134 × 65 mm) |
User manual / Instructions for use (PDF)
Comparison
How does the Steca Tarom 4545 compare with rival charge controllers?
| Criterion | Steca Tarom 4545 | Renogy Rover 40A | Victron SmartSolar 100/20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | PWM | MPPT | MPPT |
| Current | 45A | 40A | 20A |
| Screen | Built-in graphic LCD | Built-in LCD | No (Bluetooth) |
| Data logger | 12 years | No | 30-day history |
The Steca Tarom 4545 stands out for its long-term data logger and programmable contacts, rare on PWM controllers. Against MPPT rivals like the Renogy Rover 40A or the Victron SmartSolar 100/20, which harvest more energy in low light, the Tarom bets on ruggedness, automation and data logging rather than raw efficiency.
Our tester's review: Julien De Jurquet
Fitted to an off-grid cabin system with a decent panel array, the Steca Tarom 4545 commands respect straight out of the box: a sturdy enclosure, an oversized terminal block that takes 35 mm2 cable without fuss, and a graphic screen showing output, charge status and recent history at a glance. The menu takes a bit of patience the first time round (plenty of options, multi-function contacts, timers), but once set up it just runs. The twelve-year data logger is a real plus for anyone tracking output over the long haul. Two things to know before buying: it is a PWM controller, not MPPT, despite the premium price tag, and the IP31 rating calls for a sheltered enclosure. One Amazon review also flagged a state-of-charge glitch, an isolated case in our research. For a solid, well-monitored 12/24V setup, the Tarom 4545 remains a safe bet.
Frequently asked questions: Steca Tarom 4545 PWM charge controller
It is a PWM (pulse width modulation) controller with multi-stage charging, not an MPPT unit. It does not track the panels' maximum power point, unlike a pricier MPPT controller.
With 45A of charge current and a maximum panel open-circuit voltage under 60V, it handles roughly 700W of panels on a 12V system and 1400W at 24V.
No, this professional controller is designed for lead-acid batteries (flooded, AGM, gel depending on the menu profile). It offers no lithium LiFePO4 charge profile.
Its IP31 rating protects against dust and vertical drips, but not against direct rain or spray exposure. Installing it in an electrical cabinet or plant room is recommended.
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Published on 04/09/2026