Solarika.co.uk
5W monocrystalline solar panel (trickle charger)
Art: BST-5M
Description
PHOTONIC UNIVERSE
5W Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Trickle Charger | 12V Battery Maintenance | Off-Grid Power
The Photonic Universe 5W Monocrystalline Solar Panel (SKU: BST-5M) is a robust and efficient trickle charger designed for sustained, independent power in various outdoor settings. This small solar panel is engineered to maintain the optimal charge of your 12V batteries, preventing depletion across diverse environments such as recreational vehicles, marine vessels, remote sheds, and garden spaces.
Meticulously constructed for enduring performance, this high-efficiency panel is ideally suited for permanent outdoor deployment, furnishing a continuous, complimentary power source for a multitude of applications. It delivers consistent and reliable energy for tasks like illuminating a remote shed, operating a small ventilation system, or diligently preserving the charge of a 12V battery bank in a motorhome, automobile, or boat.
IMPORTANT NOTE: For 12V batteries with capacities below 50Ah, a solar charge controller (not supplied) is strongly advised to prevent overcharging.
Key Features
| ▶ Effortless Battery Preservation — Designed for efficient trickle charging of 12V lead-acid batteries (50Ah+). |
| ▶ Unyielding All-Weather Resilience — Advanced monocrystalline cells in a sturdy, sealed aluminium frame. |
| ▶ Waterproof Design — Guarantees uncompromised operational reliability across all climatic conditions. |
| ▶ Integrated Blocking Diode — Prevents reverse current flow from battery to panel at night, removing need for disconnection. |
| ▶ Pre-drilled Mounting Holes — Equipped with 4 holes for straightforward and secure installation. |
| ▶ 2-Meter Integrated Cable — Supplied with a 2m cable directly affixed to a sealed, waterproof connection box. |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Peak Power Output (Pmax) | 5 Watts |
| Maximum Power Voltage (Vmpp) | 17.5 Volts |
| Maximum Power Current (Impp) | 0.28 Amperes |
| Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 21.6 Volts |
| Short Circuit Current (Isc) | 0.30 Amperes |
| Power Tolerance Range | +/- 3% |
| Dimensions (L x W x D) | 25 x 19 x 2 cm |
| Net Weight | 0.8 kg |
| Integrated Cable Length | 2 meters (1.5mm) |
Operating & Power Guidance
This 5W monocrystalline solar panel is designed to provide a continuous, low-current charge to maintain the health and readiness of 12V lead-acid batteries. Its primary function is trickle charging, which helps to counteract the natural self-discharge of batteries, thereby extending their overall lifespan.
The panel's output voltage (Vmpp 17.5V) is suitable for directly charging 12V battery systems. For optimal battery health, especially with smaller capacity batteries (e.g., below 50Ah), the use of a dedicated solar charge controller is recommended to regulate the charging process and prevent potential overcharging. The integrated blocking diode ensures that current only flows from the panel to the battery, preventing discharge during low light or night-time conditions.
Its robust construction and waterproof design make it suitable for permanent outdoor installation, offering a reliable and virtually maintenance-free power solution for various small-scale applications.
Typical Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Leisure Battery Maintenance | Ideal for maintaining 12V leisure batteries in caravans, motorhomes, and boats during periods of storage or infrequent use. |
| Automotive & Marine | Keeps car, motorcycle, or boat batteries topped up, preventing discharge and ensuring readiness. |
| Off-Grid Lighting | Powers small 12V garden lights, shed lighting, or other low-power remote illumination systems. |
| Small Ventilation Systems | Suitable for operating compact 12V ventilation fans in sheds, greenhouses, or small outbuildings. |
Built-In Protection Functions
The Photonic Universe 5W Monocrystalline Solar Panel includes an essential built-in blocking diode. This component effectively prevents reverse current flow from your battery back to the solar panel during periods of darkness or low light, safeguarding your battery from discharge and eliminating the need for manual disconnection. The panel's sealed, waterproof design also provides robust protection against environmental elements, ensuring long-term reliability.
Common Questions
What type of batteries can this panel charge?
This panel is designed for trickle charging 12V lead-acid batteries, particularly those with capacities of 50Ah and exceeding. For smaller 12V batteries, a solar charge controller is recommended to prevent overcharging.
Do I need a charge controller with this 5W panel?
For 12V batteries with capacities of 50Ah or more, this panel can often be connected directly for trickle charging. However, for smaller batteries, a solar charge controller is strongly advised to regulate the voltage and current, protecting the battery from overcharge.
Is this panel suitable for permanent outdoor installation?
Yes, the panel features advanced monocrystalline solar cells encapsulated within a sturdy, sealed aluminium frame with a waterproof design, making it highly resilient and suitable for permanent outdoor deployment in all weather conditions.
Does the panel require daily disconnection?
No, the panel integrates a blocking diode which proficiently prevents any reverse current flow from your battery back to the solar panel during nocturnal periods, negating the necessity for daily disconnection and re-connection.
Installation Notes
- Position the panel to maximise sun exposure throughout the day for optimal performance.
- Utilise the 4 pre-drilled holes for secure mounting on a stable surface.
- Ensure all electrical connections are secure and protected from moisture.
- While no specific installation instructions are included, free expert support is available from Photonic Universe for technical inquiries.
Before You Buy
- Verify the panel's 5W output is sufficient for your specific trickle charging or small power needs.
- Confirm compatibility with your 12V battery system; ideal for lead-acid batteries 50Ah and above.
- Consider purchasing a solar charge controller separately if charging smaller 12V batteries to prevent overcharging.
- Ensure you have the necessary mounting hardware for your intended installation surface (not supplied).
Please verify all specifications and compatibility requirements before purchase. This product is covered by a 1-year workmanship warranty provided by Photonic Universe.
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