Solar Panels

tee_cee · 2024-02-02 14:32:04

After getting my new lithium battery, and shelling out another fortune on an inverter and chargers, I thought I might as well upgrade my panels.
I had 2 panels which I thought totalled 160W, but were actually 140W and the controller I thought was 250W, is actually 350W. So I went for 3 x 100W flexible panels - wired in parallel since the controller will only handle 50V. Currently seeing about 3A with overcast skies.

kenbw2 · 2024-02-03 17:46:49

I debated with mine whether to run them in series or parallel. I went for parallel in the end, I think I did some tests and found that contrary to my expectations I got more watts in parallel but there wasn't much in it

AlvyLad · 2024-02-03 19:57:25

Is it just me, but that "Chinese Invention" standard for connectors is abysmally poor (max 100W watertight connectors shouldn't be bigger than 8x8x40mm)?

Last edited by AlvyLad (2024-02-03 19:57:49)

kenbw2 · 2024-02-04 01:11:15

AlvyLad wrote:

Is it just me, but that "Chinese Invention" standard for connectors is abysmally poor (max 100W watertight connectors shouldn't be bigger than 8x8x40mm)?

The MC4 connector?

AlvyLad · 2024-02-04 01:35:33

kenbw2 wrote:

AlvyLad wrote:
Is it just me, but that "Chinese Invention" standard for connectors is abysmally poor (max 100W watertight connectors shouldn't be bigger than 8x8x40mm)?
The MC4 connector?

Indeed. I could accept it as residential installation standard, but on vans, even yachts- just plain silly. Simple Crimp-on slide connectors from automotive industry should be sufficient, but noooo- let's have it so they stick out and about... mad

kenbw2 · 2024-02-04 02:35:35

Yea I'm not a fan, especially when I have to have multiple connectors combine

tee_cee · 2024-02-04 08:25:26

Yes, they are a bit on the big side, but they do appear to be very good at keeping water out.

kenbw2 · 2024-02-04 13:46:18

I like that you got red ones for the positive connections

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#1 2024-02-02 14:32:04

Solar Panels

#2 2024-02-03 17:46:49

Re: Solar Panels

#3 2024-02-03 19:57:25

Re: Solar Panels

#4 2024-02-04 01:11:15

Re: Solar Panels

#5 2024-02-04 01:35:33

Re: Solar Panels

#6 2024-02-04 02:35:35

Re: Solar Panels

#7 2024-02-04 08:25:26

Re: Solar Panels

#8 2024-02-04 13:46:18

Re: Solar Panels

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