Re: Old question, new solar panel

["Bruce Wilson" <>]

I've used them to keep lead-acid batteries going for a week running a remot=
e
radio repeater.

They are constant-current sources, so they work best with batteries that
handle different charging voltages, like lead acid. To charge NiMH or LiH
batteries you'd need a box to convert the 12-18v supply into a regulated
charging voltage.

It's strange rolling up a solar cell, but that's how they are made. Leaving=

them unattended in camp requires that you tie down the corners, as it tends=

to fly in a good breeze.

Mostly I use a Honda EU1000i generator for my field-charging needs. Eight
hours on a quart of gas, low noise, low maintenance.

Bruce Wilson KF7K
http://science.uvsc.edu/wilson