solar powered chargers
Discussion
I posted on the sat nav section but i don't think there is anyone home (probably stalking scouse biffers at aintree).
has anyone any experience of using a solar powered charger. my car doesnt have a power outlet so my gps use is a bit limited for long runs - so whilst its also got no roof a solar charger seems a good option, but do they work??
has anyone any experience of using a solar powered charger. my car doesnt have a power outlet so my gps use is a bit limited for long runs - so whilst its also got no roof a solar charger seems a good option, but do they work??
I assume that you mean using a solar panel to extend the range of the batteries on your satnav box? This being when you are out on tour, rather than whilst parked up for the week?
What you can't expect is for a solar panel to replace the battery. You need it to collect energy when it can, then keep as much as you can in a storage unit (ie a battery)
If that is correct, they do work, and quite well provided they get decent sun. The key figures are output voltage and power capacity.
Output voltage would need to be what the charger provides, not the nominal voltage. So on a 12V car battery you want a solar panel output of 14-15V, like the alternator or charger would provide.
Power (probably in watts) is the maximum the panel can provide in full sunlight. You would want something comparable to or ideally larger than the draw on the unit. Check the manual, or run a powermeter on the charger. I would guess a figure of 1-5W.
As to what to buy... For 12V systems, Maplins have some cheap small panels for 1-2W. For lower voltages, I there are device-specific options - several iPod & mobile phone options out there.
What you can't expect is for a solar panel to replace the battery. You need it to collect energy when it can, then keep as much as you can in a storage unit (ie a battery)
If that is correct, they do work, and quite well provided they get decent sun. The key figures are output voltage and power capacity.
Output voltage would need to be what the charger provides, not the nominal voltage. So on a 12V car battery you want a solar panel output of 14-15V, like the alternator or charger would provide.
Power (probably in watts) is the maximum the panel can provide in full sunlight. You would want something comparable to or ideally larger than the draw on the unit. Check the manual, or run a powermeter on the charger. I would guess a figure of 1-5W.
As to what to buy... For 12V systems, Maplins have some cheap small panels for 1-2W. For lower voltages, I there are device-specific options - several iPod & mobile phone options out there.
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