Convert solar panels to portable.

Tom_M wrote:
You don't need another controller. If your panels are connected in parallel, you can connect your portable panel to your existing controller. Attach another cable to the input of the controller. Cut it off just long enough to get to the outside, most likely into an outside compartment. Use a suitable connector to join this cable with the one going to your panel. I use Anderson PowerPole SB50 connectors.

X2 used different connectors; same idea, works fine.

Doug

You don't need another controller. If your panels are connected in parallel, you can connect your portable panel to your existing controller. Attach another cable to the input of the controller. Cut it off just long enough to get to the outside, most likely into an outside compartment. Use a suitable connector to join this cable with the one going to your panel. I use Anderson PowerPole SB50 connectors.

I've thought of that too and compared Renogy imported panels to the Zamp panels manufactured in the US and there really is no comparison if quality is a concern since this should be a one time investment. Since you already have the panel, look at the Zamp controllers... they have several waterproof controllers.

I got an email from Renogy stating that they now sell a portable kit that has the controller not attached to the panel(s) so it can indeed be mounted in an enclosed area.

controller should be in the trailer NOT on the panel. so, mount it in the pass through.

controller should be as close to battery as possible so that the voltage drop between the controller and battery is as low as possible.

yes, I know the portable panels almost all come with the controller on the back of the panel. probably so they are ready to use, but that's not the best configuration.

I use two Renogy 100W panels as portables. I just prop them up with some simple boards that I cut for the purpose. I located the controller in my pass through hard wired to the battery and then just attach/detatch the solar panels via an SAE connector (I think that is what it is called). Could connect/disconnect with MC4's also but I installed the SAE connector in the sidewall of the camper.