Blog
An application note from Microchip: Practical guide to implementing Solar Panel MPPT Algorithms (PDF!)
This application note describes how to implement MPPT using the most popular switching power supply topologies. There are many published works on this topic, but only a tiny portion of them show how to actually implement the algorithms in hardware, as well as state common problems and pitfalls. Even when using the simplest MPPT algorithm with a well-designed synchronous switching power supply, it can be expected that at least 90% of the panel’s available power will end up in the battery, so the benefits are obvious.
[via]
Practical guide to implementing Solar Panel MPPT Algorithms - [Link]
Small photovoltaic modules of the SMH series will reliably solve the power sourcing of low-power devices.
With modern components, it´s no problem to design devices with power consumption in units of mA and less. That´s why already one small solar module combined with a backup battery or a supercapacitor often solves power sourcing of devices intended for usage in places without electric energy, or in places where a connection to electricity would be inadequately expensive.
SMH series belongs to a segment of small solar modules primarily intended to be built-in to target devices – measuring systems, sensors, communication devices, … High quality construction and a high reliability predestine for various industrial devices. Power in a range of 407-1023 mW is sufficient for many applications including various control units (for example with low-power bistable relays).
SMH3, SMH4 and SMH8 are made of monocrystalline silicon with a UV resistant encapsulation of the IP65 class, optimized for outdoor use (polyurethane, 1.8mm overall thickness of module). As already their name says, they consist of 3,4 or 8 cells, what results in an output voltage of 1.65V, 2.2V or 4.4V. Leads are constructed as soldering pads on a rear side of modules. All modules are 100% electrically and optically tested. Color of modules is dark blue (almost black).
Detailed information will provide you SMH3, SMH4 and SMH8 datasheets. In case of interest, please contact us at
Supply your devices even in the desert - [Link]
This document covers a few of the applications where lasers can be used during the fabrication of crystalline silicon
(c-Si) solar cells.
Manufacturing c-Si Solar Cells with Lasers - [Link]
tinkerlog writes:
We all know, we should use more renewable energy. Here is my contribution. Use solar power if you want to cut 20mm wooden rods. And plan ahead because it may take a while.
The Almost Useless Machine - [Link]
This project describes how to build a portable solar charger tracker. It analyses the charging process. This unit connects with a small solar panel and a LiPo battery and keep track of solar panel voltage, battery voltage and current goes through the panel to battery charger. The design is intended for 6V panels and single cell LiPo batteries but can be adapted for any kind of panel and charger. Device is powered from batteries and uses Arduino Duemilanove. [via]
Portable solar charging tracker - [Link]
Get a look inside Ekarat Solar Cell factory located in Thailand. It’s really amazing how this factory works.
Product: Polycrystalline silicon cells
Production capacity: 30 MWp/year
Production area: 1,000 m2
Total facility area: 5,000 m2
Summer is almost over and your chances of capturing mother nature are slipping away. Don’t get too distraught, however, because fall and winter are coming, meaning months ahead to construct your own solar panel.
- You can pick up all the solar panels you’ll ever need in the HacknMod Store (along with any other DIY project supplies you need).
- Learn how to construct a professional, durable 60 watt solar panel.
- Don’t miss our on HacknMod’s vast collection of DIY Free Energy projects.
Construct your own 60 Watt Solar Panel - [Link]
