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  • #813042
    duncan webster 1
    Participant
      @duncanwebster1

      Having had difficulty with trees overshadowing our solar panel we’ve finally moved it. How do I test it? On open circuit it gives just over 20v. Interweb suggests just plugging an ammeter across the output, but it’s a 200W panel so potentially will give well over 10A like that. It’s normally connected to a battery charger but if I get no amps it could be either panel gone high resistance or charger. Is it worth covering half of it up and putting a headlight bulb across the output? I’m almost tempted by a bucket of salty water and two electrodes!

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      #813067
      not done it yet
      Participant
        @notdoneityet

        Generally speaking, the merest of shadow on the panel will mean the loss of most of the panel power.

        Checking the OCV and CCV, in good sunlight, should indicate the panel is OK.  The specs will be on the back of the panel.

        #813079
        duncan webster 1
        Participant
          @duncanwebster1

          CCV? If the output is shorted there is no voltage?

          #813082
          peak4
          Participant
            @peak4
            On duncan webster 1 Said:

            CCV? If the output is shorted there is no voltage?

            CCV under load I suspect was the intention of the comment.
            i.e. Close/Complete the Circuit to a partially discharged battery and measure the Voltage accross the battery open circuit and again whilst charging.
            I’m assuming it’s a 12v battery, so nominally charging at something like 14v; 200W suggests a max charge current of about 14A in full sunlight, but I can’t imagine it would give that on a cloudy day.
            You could always put a 10A ammeter in series, twixt battery and panel, after partially covering the panel with a sheet of cardboard, then gradually slide it off whilst observing the charge current variation.

            Bill

            #813090
            martin haysom
            Participant
              @martinhaysom48469
              On duncan webster 1 Said:

              I’m almost tempted by a bucket of salty water and two electrodes!

              not a good idea. gives off dodgy fumes

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