| In this article, you'll learn how to put together different | | | | To get the solar cells into the frame, glue the array of |
| components of a solar power generator. You then | | | | solar cells onto a thin, rigid backing before placing it into |
| have the knowledge to build for yourself a solar | | | | the "box". An example of this thin, rigid backing is a |
| power system that can supply electricity to small | | | | Masonite board. |
| appliances that run on twelve-volt direct current. | | | | We should give the rigid backing a few coats of paint |
| Connecting the Solar Cells | | | | before pasting the cells on. We must also apply a few |
| Each solar cell produces half a volt. To get eighteen | | | | coats of paint to the panel frame and dry it thoroughly |
| volts, you have to join thirty-six solar cells in series. You | | | | before putting in the array of solar cells. |
| should always make calculations to ensure that power | | | | Connecting the Diode |
| generated by your solar panel is sufficient. Otherwise | | | | You can place the diode inside the solar panel and hold |
| you may have to join more cells in parallel after you | | | | it firmly with some silicone so it won't move about. |
| have attained sufficient voltage. | | | | Covering with Plexiglass |
| The reason we need an eighteen-volt output from the | | | | Before you cover the solar frame with plexiglass, test |
| solar generator is because this is what's necessary to | | | | the solar panel's voltage and power output. Then |
| charge a twelve-volt battery. We cannot charge a | | | | carefully attach the plexiglass onto the solar panel |
| twelve-volt battery with a twelve-volt source. | | | | frame using screws. |
| Constructing the Panel Frame | | | | Attaching the Jones Plug |
| Next, we have to create the frame. This is a shallow | | | | Finally, you have to solder a Jones plug to the end of |
| box for the solar cells to sit in. The borders of the box | | | | the wires that come out of the panel. This completes |
| should be three-quarters of an inch wide and should | | | | your solar generator. |
| not be too high. Otherwise it will cast a shadow on the | | | | After hooking up the different parts in the above |
| photovoltaic cells as the sun comes in from a low | | | | manner, you have made for yourself a solar power |
| angle. | | | | generator that can supply renewable energy to your |
| Putting the Array of Cells Into The Solar Panel Frame | | | | appliances that run on twelve-volt direct current. |