Electrical parameter matching Voltage: The output voltage of the solar panel must match the charging voltage of the power station. The charging voltage of a general portable power station is in common specifications such as 12V, 24V or 48V. For example, for a 12V power station, you can choose a solar panel with an open circuit voltage of about 18V, because the voltage of the solar panel will drop during actual operation, and the 18V open circuit voltage can ensure that the 12V power station can be effectively charged under different lighting conditions. Current: The short-circuit current of the solar panel must be within the allowable range of the charging current of the power station. For example, if the maximum charging current of the power station is 10A, then the short-circuit current of the solar panel should be less than or equal to 10A, otherwise the charging circuit of the power station may be damaged. Power: Select the power of the solar panel according to the capacity and usage requirements of the power station. If you often use it outdoors for a long time and use many electrical devices, such as portable refrigerators, electric ovens and other high-power devices, you can choose a solar panel of 200W or above; if you only charge low-power devices such as mobile phones and cameras, solar panels below 100W can usually meet the needs.
Interface compatibility
·Interface type
·Mainstream interface: Common DC interfaces include 5525, 5521 and other specifications. Anderson interfaces are often used for high-power charging. MC4 interfaces have good waterproof performance and are suitable for outdoor environments1.
·Use of adapter: If the solar panel and energy storage power supply interface do not match, when using the adapter, ensure that its quality is reliable and the contact is good to avoid heating, charging interruption and other problems caused by poor contact.
·Cable length
·Use scenario: When camping outdoors, if the solar panel needs to be placed away from the power station to obtain better light, a longer cable is required. Generally, a cable length of 3 to 5 meters can meet the needs of most outdoor scenes.
· Cable loss: If the cable is too long, the resistance will increase and the power loss will occur. Therefore, it is necessary to select a cable with a suitable diameter to reduce the resistance and reduce the loss of power during transmission.
Efficiency and performance
· Conversion efficiency
· Light conditions: In areas with abundant light resources, such as deserts and plateaus, solar panels with relatively low conversion efficiency and more affordable prices can be selected; in areas with insufficient light, such as places with more rainy weather, solar panels with high conversion efficiency can better ensure the charging effect.
· Usage requirements: Users who have high requirements for charging speed and often need to quickly charge the power station should choose solar panels with a conversion efficiency of more than 20%.