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The SOLAR PANEL POWER CONTROLLER (SPPCL) multiplies the solar panel’s starting current for motors.
Normally, powering an electric motor directly from a solar panel can be quite inefficient, especially during start up and at low motor speeds.
The SPPCL allows the motor to start and operate at a much lower light intensity than is possible with the motor directly connected to the solar panel.
This SPPCL circuit holds the output of the solar panel at its maximum power voltage point. Thus it is able to substantially boost the starting current available to the motor.
NOTE: This circuit regulates the input voltage rather than the output voltage.
Energy consumption by the circuits is 0.04 W (approximately). The SPPCL’s weight is approximately 45 grams (including the inductor).
The SPPCL will work with any solar panel or combination of solar panels whose Voltage Open Circuit (VOC) voltage is between 6.5 and 12 volts.
NOTE: A rated 12V panel at VOC will be higher than 12V
Soldering Required: Yes
Hours to Construct: 3 - 5
Components included: Electrical, Electronics & PCB
Level: Subsystem - Intermediate
Price per kit:
$16.40 (1 - 19)
$16.05 (20+)
Click here to see our teaching unit Overview for important information relating to the kit including additional requirements.
IMPORTANT:
TECHNOLOGY KIT CONTENTS. Our kits contain all the electrical, electronic and mechanical components needed to build the device (only). The teacher supplies readily available material for wiring, making body parts, etc. – NO BODY PARTS OR WIRES ARE INCLUDED in the kits. Each order includes comprehensive instructions / Teaching Unit.
