Portable (suitcase) solar "install" question

johnm1 wrote:
Soundguy - I would like to place the panels outside and lock them to a tree/camper/etc. and not bring them inside at night so I can start recharging at 1st light. If the panels are safe from theft, why not leave them out? Since I've never dealt with solar, am I missing something?

I guess I just have a different view and wouldn't ever leave anything valuable out when I'm not around and sticky fingers are just waiting to make it theirs instead of mine. :( I don't do that with a genset, don't even do it with my Weber Q, so I sure wouldn't leave a solar panel out when I'm not around. Personally, I don't see the issue - a folding portable 100 watt panel weighs maybe 25 lbs, often comes with a padded case for storage, and as I said earlier with a controller affixed to the back side of one of the panels - can't take but a minute to set up or put away. Sure, maybe not ideal but if the cable from the controller to the battery is of sufficient gauge and short enough length voltage drop would be minimal. FWIW, many Forest River trailers, Coachmen Freedom Express and Coachmen Apex, are now shipping with built in solar connectors on the side of the trailer, the idea being simplicity and designed so you can just plug in your portable 100 watt panel, orient it toward the sun, and go have a beer. Obviously this won't have the same capability as a much more serious 600 watt system but sure it is a good way to start one's venture into solar - and for some all they may ever need. ;)