Detailed Overview of a 5 Volt Solar Panel: Its Features, Applications, and Benefits
Do you think solar panels are available only in large sizes that can be installed on the rooftops? Think again!
In modern times, various manufacturers provide small and highly efficient solar panels such as the 5V solar panel. The silicon cells in this panel capture sunlight to produce electricity like other solar panels.
Then how is it different from other solar panels?
Well, a 5V solar panel has a compact structure with an inbuilt solar charge controller. Impressive, isn’t it?
Apart from its portability, this solar panel offers many other advantages. Read this blog to understand how a compact 5-volt solar panel works to run small appliances.
Let us start by understanding the product details of a 5V solar panel first.
Product Details of a 5V solar panel
Before you plan to buy a 5V solar panel to meet your power requirements, it is essential to know its specifications and details.
Although it uses the photovoltaic effect like any other rooftop solar panel to produce electricity, its specifications and details are different.
The most important details of a solar panel with 5 V power include:
- – Instead of a rooftop solar installation, you can use this solar panel to run small devices
- – You can use it to power IoT devices
- – It can also be used to charge laptops and mobile phones
- – It is suitable for charging solar battery power banks
- – This solar panel is also a reliable power source for charging security cameras and Alexa
- – It is mostly suitable for charging small devices only and cannot power a home lighting system
Features and Applications of a 5V Solar Panel
Now that you know the product details of a 5 V solar panel, let’s also look at the features it offers.
- – Since it has a compact structure and is portable, you can carry it everywhere with you
- – It is lightweight. Therefore, anyone can easily lift it or handle it without needing any support
- – All the parts of this solar panel are fixed, and their functions are also easy to understand
- – It’s pretty easy to maintain these ‘on-the-go’ solar panels
Benefits of Using a 5V Solar Panel
A 5-volt solar panel is small and suitable for charging small devices, that much you already know. But, it also offers other benefits, such as –
- – It does not require a connection to a power plug for recharging purposes
- – You can easily charge the panel by placing it under direct sunlight
- – You can easily understand and adapt to the functions of a 5-volt solar panel.
In addition to these benefits, a 5 V solar panel is an excellent replacement for conventional electric power banks.
Wondering how? Here’s a table for your reference.
| 5V solar panel | Electric power bank |
| It doesn’t need an electric plug point | It requires an electric plug-in; can’t work without one once it’s exhausted |
| It is charged by sunlight | It depends on electricity for charging purposes; can’t be charged via sunlight |
| It does not require a hefty investment. Although it’s slightly costlier than an electric power bank, it’s worth the price | Although it is cheap, it increases the electric bill to an extent |
Differences Between a 5 Volt a 24 Volt Solar Panel
From the above points, it is evident that a 5-volt solar panel is quite helpful despite its low output voltage.
However, if you want to know the differences between a 24 volt and 5V solar panel, you must read the following table:
| 5-volt solar panel | 24-volt solar panel |
| You can use it to charge small electric devices as it supplies low power | It can power devices that need a high-load power supply |
| It is not suitable to run household lights | You can depend on this system to power the street lights as well as indoor lights and garden lights |
Why choose SolarSquare?
We, at SolarSquare, offer prefabricated mounting structures.
Wondering what’s special about these structures? Well, here are the details:
- – They’re elevated from the ground so that you still have the rooftop to yourself after installing the solar system
- – The mounting structures are so strong that they won’t collapse even under high wind speeds up to 150 kmph.
- – They are built to last a lifetime since they can easily withstand extreme weather variations
- – They’re zinc-coated. So, forget about rusting
That being said, we offer many other attractive services just for our customers.
- – Our installation team is well-versed in using ultramodern equipment to ensure the safe and sound installation of the solar system
- – We offer a 0% six-month EMI scheme to our customers
- – We offer a quick, 10-minute loan approval
- – We offer a 5-year AMC contract. Your solar system is our responsibility
- – We use special equipment and brushes to clean any dirt, debris, or bird droppings from the surface of the panels
Register with us to find out more about our offerings.
Conclusion
A 5-volt solar panel is a very small device to generate electricity with the help of sunlight. Therefore, you can use it to meet your small power needs.
A 5-volt solar panel is undoubtedly the best option when you’re camping or hiking and need your devices charged.
You will never be out of touch with the outer world with this mini panel in your since sunlight will follow you everywhere you go, and sunlight is all that this solar panel needs.
In addition, by charging small devices with this panel, you can marginally reduce your electricity consumption too.
FAQs
Q. Can I use a 5-volt solar panel while travelling?
It’s an on-the-go solar panel. This means you can take it anywhere with you. So, yes, you can use it while travelling as long as there’s sunlight.
Q. How can I charge the battery of a 5-volt solar panel?
You need to place the panel in direct sunlight for some time to charge the battery with solar energy.
Q. What are the devices a 5-volt solar system can power?
It is suitable to power IoT devices, laptops, mobile phones, Alexa, and security cameras.
Introduction: Making Your Own Photovoltaic 5V System
About: (Official Name. Desmotronics) Create, modify circuits for fun, and share works with everyone else who want to build their own circuits. Passion with electronics. About ElectronicHobbyist »
This uses a buck converter as a 5V Output to charge the battery(Li Po/Li-ion). And Boost converter for 3.7V battery to 5V USB output for devices needed 5 V. Similar to the Original system that uses Lead Acid Battery as an energy storage charge by either PWM or MPPT controller. And supply for 12V Devices. This One only uses a Buck converter to convert 12V (solar panel nominal voltage) to stable 5V to charge a Li-Po/Li-ion battery, after daylight. Switch to Boost converter to convert the battery’s voltage 4.2 (3.7 nominal voltage for Li-Po and Li-ion) to again 5V for devices powers 5V. (You can still use the 5V in the Buck Converter during daytime while the Li-Po/Li-ion Battery is charging. It might not be as efficient as the original system(12V). I only did this because my solar panel power is only 15W and not enough budget to buy MPPT or PWM charger for 12V. and not enough to power applications that need higher than 50W. So I make an alternative option, the 5V version.
(Reminder, the system does not have any controllers.)
This system is for solar panels that are lower than 30W and only 12V only. (9V solar panels would still work).
My System specificationsInput Solar Panel =12V (18V)
Charging time = depends on your solar panel’s power and the battery’s capacity.
USB Output 1 (Buck converter) = 5V
USB Output 2 (Boost converter)= 5V
Battery type= depends on your choices(Li-Po/Li-ion) 3.7 and capacity. Mine was Li-Po with a capacity of 3500mAh.
One to point:
While the project is ongoing for experiments for improving and calculating its efficiency and whether it was worth it. Ask me questions for the project.
Step 1: Ready the Materials
- Solar Panel.(recommend 20Watts higher, 12V)
- 1x TP4056 charging and protection circuit for the Li-Po and Li-ion.
- 1x Li-Po/Li-ion battery ( depends what battery you choose and the capacity)
Buck-Converter (One I use)
- (1x) LM2576T (5V version, 3A )
- (1x) 100uH Inductor
- (1x) 100uF and (1x) 1000uF Electrolytic capacitors
- (1x) Schottky Diode
- (1x 1K resistor and small LED).optional
Along with measurement tools
Step 2: Follow the Circuit Schematic
Solder all the components in a PCB purfboard.
It would be better to short the Data plus and minus Pins on the USB ports for Android Phones.
be sure to switch off the Boost converter to not overload the TP4056 while charging the battery.
If your solar panel’s power is lower than the recommended power, which is 20Watts above, you should only connect one battery. because of the limited power in your solar panel’s power. Example: 15Watts is 0.83A, which means that’s your max current.
Step 3: Power and Measure the Circuit.
If the circuit is working properly, then test it by using dummy loads like 5W resistor in the output and measure the voltage and current. like this picture.
If the input voltage (photovoltaic) in the buck-converter suddenly drops lower than the nominal voltage of PV and the output voltage. then the problem should be on this list.
the load in the output is connected already and draws more power from the PV.
Less sunlight outside due to cloudy, etc.
if your problem is not on this list, leave a comment and I will answer it.
Step 4: Finished
You can calculate the efficiency of the Buck-converter and the Boost converter by this formula.
Output Voltage x Output Current
Input Voltage x Input Current
Things to Remind!! Always switch off the connection between Battery and the Boost-Converter to not overload the TP4056 charging process during the daytime. only use it for Tonight.
Advantages and Disadvantages
5V operated. For charging and powering applications that need 5V- Not for applications that needs 12V/9V.(Can be adjusted if your boost converter is adjustable)
Efficiency rate is good enough. ( Mine are 70% in buck converter and 68% in Boost converter)(Little bit higher if you use an already build the module.)
Inexpensive system
Easy to make if buying the already built boost and buck module.
One thing to point out:
The limited current output of the buck-converter is depended on your solar panel’s power (Watts). My solar panel’s power is 15 Watts, which means I’m limited to the current of 0.75A when connecting to the charger. This is why I recommend a solar panel that at least higher than 20W.
Feel free to comment if you have questions about the project.
If you make your own Photovoltaic 5V System. please share.
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Reminder: Always have knowledge about electronics and think about safety first before, during, and after making the project. Safety First.
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Hello, how much do those solar panels cost? Thanks
My solar panel only 15 USD for 15Watts, small power but enough to charge 5V devices like phones. I hope that I answer your question, thanks!
Mini Solar Panel 5V 160mA 0.8W Solar Cell
This Mini Solar Panel is a low-cost 5V, 160mA, 0.8mA solar cell. Encased in a protective and durable outer poly frame.
FREE SHIPPING Worldwide on orders 199
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All stock is located in Australia.
Description:
This Mini Solar Panel is a low-cost 5V, 160mA, 0.8mA solar cell. Encased in a protective and durable outer poly frame.
The copper terminals/pads are located on the reverse side of the panel to allow easy access to the positive and negative connections.
Specifications:
- Operating voltage: 5V
- Max operating current: 160mA
- Power: 0.8W
- Material: Polycrystalline silicon
- Dimensions: 85mm x 85mm x 3mm
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WSL Solar’s 5V solar panel is built with the latest most efficient crystalline silicon solar cells or super high efficiency Sunpower solar cells. These 5v solar panels are great for charging your 3.2V DC batteries and ideal for use in off grid applications such as GPS tracking, educational kits, small electronic devices, LED lighting etc.
Features:. With cutting-edge high efficiency solar cells. Positive power tolerance. Withstanding challenging environmental conditions. Waterproof, scratch resistant UV resistant. Excellent performance under low light environments
| Item No. | Dimension | Pmax | Vmp | Imp | Cell Type | Encapsulation |
| WSL-C001 | D=109×4.5mm | 1W | 5V | 200mA | Mono Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
| WSL-C003 | 100x50x4.5mm | 0.5W | 5V | 100mA | Mono Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
| WSL-C004 | 100x80x2.2mm | 1W | 5V | 200mA | Poly Solar Cell | PET Film |
| WSL-C006 | 176x86x4.5mm | 2.5W | 5V | 500mA | Mono Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
| WSL-C014 | 78x150x4.5mm | 1.6W | 5V | 320mA | Mono Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
| WSL-S002 | D=43×1.8mm | 0.2W | 5V | 40mA | Sunpower Solar Cell | PET Film |
| WSL-S005 | 95x69x2mm | 1W | 5V | 200mA | Sunpower Solar Cell | PET Film |
| WSL-S007 | 80x80x2mm | 1W | 5.5V | 181mA | Sunpower Solar Cell | ETFE Film |
| WSL-S009 | 65x65x2mm | 0.6W | 5V | 120mA | Sunpower Solar Cell | ETFE Film |
| WSL-S010 | 120x70x2mm | 1.6W | 5.5V | 290mA | Sunpower Solar Cell | ETFE Film |
| WSL-S012 | 30x50x2mm | 0.2W | 5.5V | 38mA | Sunpower Solar Cell | PET Film |
| WSL-XC001 | 120x120x4.5mm | 1.5W | 5V | 300mA | Mono Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
| WSL-XC002 | 220x190x4.5mm | 5W | 5V | 1A | Mono Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
| WSL-XC003 | 216x132x4.5mm | 3W | 5V | 600mA | Poly Solar Cell | Tempered glass |
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Solar Power Supply 5V/3.3V
About: I’m engineer, I like to design programming things with Arduino hardware and pure electronics too. About braulio777 »
This project is based on a 6V Solar Cell and constructed with two voltage regulators, one of 5V and other of 3.3V. The project is integrated inside a plastic box and in its exterior side is mounted the Solar Cell and a selectable switch to decide between 5V and 3.3V.
Step 1: Bill of Materials
1 ABS Plastic Enclosure for Arduino Board. Fits UNO or MEGA
1 Solar Panel 6 Volt DC @ 167mA 1 Watt 4.9×2.5×0.13 Inch 1 Standard Regulator 5 Volt 1 Amp 3 Pin 3 Tab TO-220 1 Low Dropout Regulator 3.3 Volt 1.5A 3-Pin (3Tab) TO-220 Rail 1 Arduino Uno Proto Shield (PCB only) 1 USB A Male To USB A Female 2.0 Cable Black 3 Feet 1 Toggle Switch (On-None-On) Single Pole Double Throw Solder Lug 5 Amp 250 Volt AC 28 Volt Panel Mount 2 0.1 uF 25 Volt 20% Ceramic Disc Capacitor 1 Capacitor Radial 1 uF 50 Volt 20% 85c 4x5x1.5mm
Step 2: Showing the Diagram
It’s important that the diagram be followed carefully for avoiding errors when working in your project.
Step 3: Installing the Voltage Regulators
Installing the Voltage Regulators, you can see the details of each regulator either 5V or 3.3V. Also, note that you can observe each disc capacitor in the respective input of each regulator.
Step 4: Drilling of 1/4
To make a hole of 1/4 in the plastic enclosure, you should use a drill bit of 1/4 so that you can install the toggle switch (On-none-On). That is, (3.3V-none-5V) install your select-able switch to decide between the two options that you have either 3.3V or 5V. Note that the hole should be done in the bottom part of your plastic enclosure.
Step 5: Preparing the Toggle Switch
To prepare the toggle switch, it is necessary to solder a wire in each pin of this so that you can connect it later to your solar cell and voltage regulators respectively
Step 6: Heat Shrink Tubing in the Toggle Switch
It’s necessary to use heat shrink tubing of 1/8 so that you can separate completely the connections done in the step # 5. Though it’s optional to use heat shrink tubing even any color, it’s important to note that the wires with white heat shrink tubing are going to be connected to the voltage regulators while the red one to the positive terminal of your solar cell.
Step 7: Installing the Toggle Switch
Before installing the toggle switch by using the hole previously done in the bottom side of your plastic enclosure, insert the PCB prepared in the step # 3. Note that you are also connecting the wires with white heat shrink tubing to the inputs of the voltage regulators while you leave free the wire with red heat shrink tube to be connected later.
Step 8: Beginning to Install the Solar Cell
For installing the solar cell, it’s necessary to use the wire with red heat shrink tube that you reserve for that purpose and it’s placed between the wires with white heat shrink tubing. Also, before connecting that wire, cover the wires of your solar cell with black heat shrink tube of 1/4 while the positive terminal to be connected with heat shrink tube of 1/8.
Step 9: Connecting Negative Terminal of Solar Cell
For connecting the negative terminal of your solar cell, look for a GND to connect the black wire of the solar cell.
Step 10: Completing the Connections of the Solar Cell
For completing the connections of the solar cell, it’s necessary to move the heat shrink tubing previously placed and fixed with your hair dryer.
Step 11: Preparing the USB-A Female Connector
For preparing the USB-A female connector, it’s necessary to use the USB-A female to USB-A male cable and cut 1 foot of cable from the USB-A female connector. Next, remove the black plastic and the rest of material that covers the four wires into cable by cutting the white and green wires leaving the red and black only to be utilized.
Step 12: Using 1/4 Heat Shrink Tube
Use heat shrink tube of 1/4 to protect the metallic part exposed of the cable previously cut.
Step 13: Installing the USB-A Female Cable
For installing the USB-A female cable, it’s necessary to connect the red wire of this to the output of the voltage regulators while the black one to GND.
Step 14: Setting the Solar Cell
For setting the solar cell, you can use double-sided foam-tape squares.
Step 15: Complete the Project
For completing the project, it’s necessary to do the step# 14.
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