Author Topic: measuring Solar panel output  (Read 3140 times)

zatross

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measuring Solar panel output
« on: March 05, 2014, 08:07:03 AM »
After watching several youtube tutorials on diy solar panel making I have now gone ahead and knocked a few panels together.

I have a combination of 3x6 cells X 27 and  25 panels.

I know these do not come any where close to the standard 36-cell panel one sees on youtube but I am very surprised to see that my voltage reading remains at 1.8 VDC for all my panels.

However, the short circuit wattage is between 2 to 3 amps !

Could there be something wrong with my voltmeter or have i completely screwed up with my soldering...?     All the cells are in series and spec'd at 0.5V each

MJLorton

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Re: measuring Solar panel output
« Reply #1 on: March 07, 2014, 12:44:01 PM »
Perhaps if you post some pictures of what you have done it may help. I know there are many people who consider doing this. I think it's difficult to save the money and have the reliability vs the cost of solar panels these days.
But I think many could learn from your experience and possible mistakes and decide if it is worthwhile.

Cheers,
Martin.
Play, discover, learn and enjoy! (and don't be scared to make mistakes along the way!)