Solar Cell Boost Converter

Published:2012/10/23 20:29:00 Author:muriel | Keyword: Solar Cell, Boost Converter | From:SeekIC

The boost converter is used to charge batteries from low voltage solar arrays. Results were obtained using 3X3 cells that deliver about 400 millivolts at 1 amp. The pictured panel array contains 20 cells in series and generates about 8 watts at 8 volts in bright sunlight and was assembled on a 12 X 16 picture frame. Efficiency of the converter measured 87% and delivers almost 600 milliamps into a 12 volt SLA battery. Efficiency drops to about 72% using 4 single cells in series (pictured above) charging the same 12 volt battery at around 70mA. The current was a little low due to a couple broken corners. A third test was made using a single cell at 0.4 volt charging a 6 volt battery, but efficiency was only about 55%. The cells were purchased from solarcells101.com in slightly damaged condition with chipped edges and a few tiny cracks, but still perform well and sell at discount. There are also many good deals on ebay.



Reprinted Url Of This Article:
http://www.seekic.com/circuit_diagram/Power_Supply_Circuit/Solar_Cell_Boost_Converter.html

Print this Page | Comments | Reading(3)