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Thread: Single VS Multi solar panels.

  1. 22nd June 2014, 01:54 PM #1
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    Single VS Multi solar panels.

    Hi Guys.
    Looking for info on using 1 large panel vs 3 smaller panel.
    Its for my camper trailer,will be building a rack that will hold the panels and direct to the sun.
    Thinking 1x300w,or 3x 100 to 120w.
    The 3 panels would be mounted to the rack to form 1 large panel.
    Thanks
    Andrew
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  2. 22nd June 2014, 03:10 PM #2
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    I'd be more inclined to have 3 panels as when one single cell gets damaged then you still have 2/3 output available.
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  3. 22nd June 2014, 08:22 PM #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by bee utey View Post
    I'd be more inclined to have 3 panels as when one single cell gets damaged then you still have 2/3 output available.
    THANK YOU!!!!
    Exactly my argument Im having with olde mate giving me a hand to finish my camper trailer.
    Andrew
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  4. 7th July 2014, 09:24 AM #4
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    $$ may be more though,,
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  5. 7th July 2014, 10:10 AM #5
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    If you connect 3 17v panels together in series, you'll get about 50v which you can pipe through a MPPT controller, and I'd say that will give you better charging than just 17v.

    The MPPT controller will take the 50v and convert it back to 14.7 (or whatever your batteries need - GEL/Wet/AGM/etc).
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  6. 10th July 2014, 09:51 PM #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by spudboy View Post
    If you connect 3 17v panels together in series, you'll get about 50v which you can pipe through a MPPT controller, and I'd say that will give you better charging than just 17v.

    The MPPT controller will take the 50v and convert it back to 14.7 (or whatever your batteries need - GEL/Wet/AGM/etc).
    I went 2x200w panels.
    I have a new Plasmatronics 20A controler which wont suit these panels as they will go better than 20amp.
    Graz reccomended getting a MPPT controler as they are better/more modern than the Plasmatronics unit .
    He sent me a link to this Powertech MPPT 30 AMP NEW Model Solar Regulator Charge Controller 30A 12V 24V | eBay

    It seems it isnt quite strong enough,360W array.

    Any thoughts people???
    Andrew
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  7. 11th July 2014, 08:22 AM #7
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    Look for a GSL MPPT. They are made in Australia, and if you have any questions, you can ring the guys that design them.

    Have a look here: GSL Electronics : MPPT & BMPPT Solar Chargers

    They won't actually sell you one. You have to go to a dealer or get one from eBay: [ame=http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/GSL-MPPT-60-1-SOLAR-PANEL-REGULATOR-60A-12-24-48v-AUTO-VOLTAGE-DETECTION-AUSMADE-/270895094135?pt=Caravan_Parts_Accessories&hash=ite m3f129b1977&_uhb=1]GSL MPPT 60 1 Solar Panel Regulator 60A 12 24 48V Auto Voltage Detection Ausmade | eBay[/ame]

    They will take panels with a VOC up to 95v, and will charge 12, 24 or 48v batteries, and they have models up to 60A.

    HTH
    David
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  8. 11th July 2014, 08:28 AM #8
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    Quote Originally Posted by bee utey View Post
    I'd be more inclined to have 3 panels as when one single cell gets damaged then you still have 2/3 output available.
    Multi panels will also give you the bonus of a slightly higher amperage, IIRC.
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