How compatible is this unit with other brand solar panels?
Very well. No matter what brand of solar panel, as long as the open circuit voltage of the solar panel is in the range of 10V-145V DC and has MC4 connectors, it is compatible with AC200MAX.
Can I leave it always connected to mains ? Does the fan run even when it is fully charged but unit connected to mains ?
You can leave it connected, but the adapter fan will keep running, even when fully charged.
How many times can the battery be charged/discharged before needing to replace battery?
"Capacity: 2048Wh for AC200MAX. LFP Battery with life cycle 3500+ to 80%." You would essentially get almost 10 years worth of daily recharge/discharge (365 days x 10 yrs = 3650) , before the batteries lose some of their storage capacity. After about 10 years, the power station looks to lose about 20% of its storage capacity.
can this unit power a small 5000 btu Air conditioner?
Generally speaking, our AC200MAX can power a small 5000 BTU air conditioner. We are noting that the instantaneous starting power of the air conditioner should not exceed the maximum capacity of 4800W of AC200MAX.
How do I connect a typical solar panel to this unit? What connector do I need?
Mc4 connector - just run a solar cable with Mc4 connectors connected to the solar panel, then plug into Bluetti''s cable that they supply with the unit & then plug into the bluetti
Will one pv 200 panel charge this power station?
Yes, the PV200 will charge the power station, but we recommend getting more up to the limit of the power station. We would advise referencing the manual on the charge limit incoming.
Does it use basic solar panel connecters?
If you mean MC4 connectors, yes. Round plug snaps into the round receptacle.