Solar Speakers?

[Frantinoro]

Hey guys,

I am building some solar powered speakers for my home outside of course ! But I have run into a problem. My solar panels are rated at 1.5W each(2) and 24V peak. If I need 12V, would it be cheaper to buy an converter, or should I just return the solar panels and get 12V ones. Also in my schematic, I have the panels wired together, would this increase the voltage to 24V (since 12v + 12v), or would it stay at 12V?

Thanks,
Frantinoro

 

[jcoultas98]

You could put a 12v regulator in the line, but... that is massive waste of a 24v panel. Yes, wiring panels together in series will increase your voltage. Either way, you need to put a regulator and fuse in line to prevent overpowering your components on an exceptionally sunny day. Don't forget your diode to prevent power from nuking your solar panels.

I built something similar to this last summer, it's great fun! I wish i could find the original instructions i used, but this is pretty close.

http/www.howcast.com/videos/470062-How-to-Make-a-Beer-Can-Cooler-that-Runs-on-Solar-Power