| There are a number of reasons why someone would | | | | electronics store. You can then use this system to |
| want to build their own solar power generator system, | | | | power small DC appliances such as laptops and |
| common uses include being able to use portable | | | | PDA's. |
| appliances like laptops and radios out and about and if | | | | If you want to run AC appliances with your solar |
| the power ever failed. You can go out to buy a ready | | | | power system then you need to invest in an inverter |
| made solar generator, but what's the fun in that if you | | | | to convert the generated DC current into AC. You |
| could make one yourself? | | | | should be able to find these inverters in automotive |
| Buying all of the components needed for your solar | | | | stores, however you should decide how much power |
| power generator isn't difficult. Everything you will need | | | | you require before buying an inverter. To get an idea |
| is available from your local electrical store, you should | | | | of which one to buy add up the number of watts that |
| be able to get everything you need for under $400. | | | | you intend to use at any one time. |
| The exact price will depend on the quality and brand | | | | You should connect the meter with the DC input to the |
| of parts that you use. Solar power generators allow | | | | battery box, carefully choose insulated wire to attach |
| you to use electrical equipment wherever you are in | | | | these together. When connecting anything to a battery |
| the world, whether you are on a boat or camping | | | | make sure you always connect the negative poles |
| outdoors. | | | | first. When connecting the solar panel make sure you |
| Creating your Own Solar Power System | | | | do this in the same way. |
| The first component which you need to buy is a small | | | | Once you've wired everything together you should |
| solar panel, one about 12-16 volts will do the job nicely. | | | | shut the lid and aim the solar panel in direct sunlight. |
| You should be able to find such a panel for less than | | | | Normally batteries that are flat will take around eight |
| $200 at an RV supply store. You should then buy a | | | | hours of sunlight to charge. Nearly flat batteries can |
| deep cycle 12 volt battery, you can buy either a gel, or | | | | charge in as little as 3 hours. Such a system cannot be |
| lead and acid battery. I suggest a deep cycle battery if | | | | expected to provide enough power for a whole house, |
| you are planning to use this system for a long time. | | | | however it can supply enough power for individual |
| You should be able to buy such a battery for around | | | | small appliances. |
| $50. | | | | Solar power systems are very easy to expand, should |
| You need to buy a box to protect the battery from | | | | you decide you ever need more power you can add |
| the elements, animals and children. You should then | | | | extra panels into your array. If you do add more |
| purchase a 12 volt DC meter. You also need a DC | | | | panels you should also consider a circuit breaker to |
| input, all of these things can be found in your local | | | | handle this extra load. |