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The simplest setup: a diode is included in the circuit to prevent discharge of electricity through the panel during the night, which would result in a flat battery. This setup doesn't protect the battery from overcharging, so we don't recommend it. It is better to use a proper solar regulator rather than a diode. Some panels have a diode built in.
Wiring a regulator between the battery and the panel prevents overcharging of the battery bank. It's very simple: just connect the two leads from the solar panel to the 'solar' terminals on the regulator, and the two leads from the battery to the regulator 'battery' terminals.
Often, boats and motorhomes have a dedicated engine starting battery. By fitting a diode between the starting battery and the domestic batteries, you can charge both sets with one solar panel. The diode allows excess charge from the domestic batteries to flow into the starting battery, but prevents it flowing the other way, so that the starting battery will not discharge if the domestic batteries start to get flat.
It is possible to charge two battery banks completely independently from the same panel using two seperate regulators. Simply wire the two regulators in parallel to the solar panel. Note that each regulator must be capable of handling the full current from the solar panel.
Some of our regulators are available with a low voltage disconnect feature. This cuts the power to equipment connected to the low voltage disconnect terminals when the battery voltage drops below a certain level, to prevent battery damage due to deep discharge. You might like to keep some essential equipment connected directly to the battery however.