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| solar generator |
Solar Generator
A Solar Generator coverts sunlight into usable electric power. This project can easily provide power for a portable sound system, small power tools, emergency lighting or to keep electronic items charged during a power outage. The power is stored in a battery so it may be used also at night.
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| portable solar power |
Solar Cell
I use a 100 watt solar cell.
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| portable solar power generator |
Solar Cell Controller
The solar cell connects to a controller which maintains the batteries charge and prevents overcharging. This particular model features an electric eye with the ability to power turn on a 12 volt DC lighting system at night.
The wires are held in place by screws. I added the two wire connectors to keep things easy to plug together.
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| portable solar generator |
Deep Cycle Marine Battery
Solar Power Systems charge and discharge the battery often. You will need a deep cycle marine battery to handle this type of load. It will wear out a regular car battery quickly. These batteries are available at any auto parts store.
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| solar powered portable generator |
Detail of Battery in Toolbox
This particular toolbox features a "lean out" drawer that holds the battery perfectly.
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| portable solar powered generator |
Power Inverter
The drawer above the battery was large enough to hold a 1200 watt power inverter. This power inverter converts the 12 Volt DC battery power into 100 Volt AC power. I had to drill some holes in the bottom of the drawer to bring in the battery wires.
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| solar portable generator |
AC Power Outlet
The inverter I purchased from a local auto parts store featured an extension outlet. This outlet features a On / Off switch for the inverter two 110 Volt AC outlets and a USB charger.
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| small solar generator |
Solar Panel - Back
Solar panels use their own connector systems. I recommend to purchase the cable needed when ordering the solar panel.
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| solar backup generator |
Solar Panal - Wiring Connetors
I cut one end off of the cable and added a simple 2 wire connector (these are handy, cheap and available at any auto parts store).
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| small solar power generator |
Toolbox - Upper Half Comes Off
The battery and controller fit in the bottom half of the toolbox I can carry other supplies in the top half (which separates from the bottom half).
I would suggest items such as: a voltage meter, a flashlight, a power strip, extension cords etc.
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| portable solar energy generator |
Tool Box Pockets
This toolbox offered some pockets on the back and it rolls on it's own built in wheels. This is handy since it weighs about 70 pounds.
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| best solar powered generator |
13 Watt Emergency Light / Extension Cord
I found a 13 watt emergency light that also doubles as an extension cord. This light is really bright and uses very little power so it will last a long time.
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| best portable solar generator |
Final Thoughts
This is a simple system that works well for light duty items. Improvements would include a higher wattage power inverter and the addition of more batteries.
A regular gasoline powered generator makes a lot of noise and must run outside. This system can be used indoors and is perfectly quiet - great for running a portable PA system or use in your home when people are sleeping.
This system is reasonably weatherproof a little rain should not hurt anything. However I would prefer to cover it with a plastic garbage bag if rain was an issue.
this is good article for diy solar generator
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