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xzyHollyxyz's avatar
xzyHollyxyz
Explorer
Aug 04, 2013

Just Starting Solar Research

Man, there's a lot to read and digest with possibly installing a small solar panel.

I very recently replaced my original 1-stage converter/charger with the Progressive Dynamics PD4600 series converter/charger.

Is a single solar panel (80W) connected to the PD converter/charger or directly to the battery?

Opinions on roof mounted or portable?

Thanks for helping me start the search!

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  • pugslyyy's avatar
    pugslyyy
    Explorer
    Aug 04, 2013
    Nice upgrade.

    You don't convert the solar panel directly to anything. You are going to need an MPPT solar charge controller to go between the panel and the battery.

    Also, you connect the solar directly to the battery because you want to be able to make power from the sun whenever you can, regardless of other conditions (truck running, shore power, genset, etc)
  • EsoxLucius's avatar
    EsoxLucius
    Explorer
    Aug 04, 2013
    You will need a solar charging controller. If you have room for the panel on top it is less hassle than a portable you have to set up each time.

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