1. ആമുഖം
This manual provides instructions for the 4W Solar Panel, designed for DIY LoRa IoT applications. It supports various LoRaWAN modules like Heltec V3/V4, RAK4631, and LILYGO ESP32. This product is intended for developers with DIY experience. Please note that the LoRa module and batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.
Image: 4W Solar Panel with antenna and internal view. LoRa module and battery are not included.
2. പാക്കിംഗ് ലിസ്റ്റ്
താഴെയുള്ള പട്ടികയിൽ നിങ്ങളുടെ പാക്കേജിന്റെ ഉള്ളടക്കങ്ങൾ പരിശോധിക്കുക:
- Solar Panel: 1 PCS
- 5DB Antenna: 1 PCS
- Fixed Bracket: 1 PCS
- Fixed Strap: 1 PCS
- Fixed Screws: 1 pack
- Type-C Data Cable: 1 PCS
Image: Components included in the package.
Note: All options do not include batteries or Mesh modules. These must be purchased separately.
Image: Reminder that 18650 batteries are not included.
3. സജ്ജീകരണം
3.1. ബാറ്ററി ഇൻസ്റ്റാളേഷൻ
- Open the back panel of the solar charger.
- Install 18650 batteries. The panel supports 1-6 PCS 18650 batteries. Ensure correct polarity (+ and - directions).
- വാങ്ങുമ്പോൾasing batteries, search for the 18650 type. We recommend a capacity greater than 3000mAh/Pcs for optimal performance.
- The panel will not work without batteries.
ചിത്രം: ആന്തരികം view for 18650 battery installation, showing charging control board and charging port.
3.2. putട്ട്പുട്ട് വോളിയംtagഇ സെലക്ഷൻ
The solar panel offers power voltage options of 3.7V/5V or 12V. Before use, check the voltage required by your device and set the panel to the corresponding voltage value using the internal jumper settings.
Image: Jumper settings for output voltagഇ സെലക്ഷൻ.
3.3. പ്രാരംഭ ചാർജിംഗ്
For the first use, please fully charge the battery. The charging time is related to the total battery capacity; higher capacity requires longer charging time.
Image: Battery LED indicators for charge status.
4. ഓപ്പറേഷൻ
4.1. Power Switch and LED Indicators
The solar panel features a power switch and several LED indicators:
- LED1: ചാർജ് എൽഇഡി
- LED2-5: Battery Level (25%/50%/75%/100%)
- LED6: LED ട്ട്പുട്ട് LED
ചാർജ് നില:
- ഓൺ: ചാർജിംഗ്
- ഓഫാണ്: ചാർജ് ചെയ്യുന്നില്ല
ബാറ്ററി ലെവൽ സൂചകങ്ങൾ:
- 25%: Turns Green 25%; Turns Red 5%
- 50%: ബാറ്ററി നില 50%
- 75%: ബാറ്ററി നില 75%
- 100%: ബാറ്ററി നില 100%
Put ട്ട്പുട്ട് നില:
- ഓൺ: Output power supply.
- ഓഫാണ്: Stop output power.
ചിത്രം: പിന്നിലേക്ക് view of the solar panel with labeled indicators.
4.2. Output Work & Stop Logic
- When the power switch is pressed, the panel will keep outputting, regardless of whether the battery is fully charged. Your device starts to work.
- If the battery level remains stable after some time, it indicates the panel is charging more energy than your device consumes.
- If the battery power drops below 10%, the solar panel will stop output and wait for charging. The orange LED will turn OFF.
- When the battery is recharged to 50% or above, the output will automatically turn on again. The green LED will be Always ON.
Important: All solar panels output power and charge simultaneously. Please select a device of suitable power to avoid over-discharge.
4.3. Sunlight Detection Function (20W/25W Panels Only)
If you have a 20W or 25W panel, it includes a built-in sunlight detection function. When sunlight is strong, the panel directly outputs power to your device. When sunlight is weak, the battery provides power. This ensures your device works longer by automatically switching the power source between the battery and the panel based on sunlight intensity.
Note: When the sunlight is strong, the power output of the panel varies with the intensity of the sunlight.
4.4. Timing Remote Control (Optional)
If you purchased the timing remote control version, you can control the output duration:
- Install an AAA battery in the remote control.
- To add a remote control: Open the panel, short press the button for 1 second.
- To delete a remote control: Open the panel, press and hold the button for 8 seconds.
- Use the remote to select output durations: 2H (2 hours), 3H (3 hours), 4H (4 hours).
Note: This version is not recommended for continuous output. It is recommended to work regularly for 2/3/4 hours.
5. Installation & Placement
- Install the solar panel in a location that receives more than 5 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- The panel should face south, with an angle to the ground between 30-45 degrees for optimal sunlight exposure.
Image: Recommended installation angle and direction for the solar panel.
The product comes with a fixed bracket and strap for mounting. You can use the strap to secure the solar LoRa node to a tree or other suitable outdoor structure.
Image: Solar panel attached to a tree using the provided strap.
6. പരിപാലനം
- Clean the dust from the solar panel every month to ensure maximum efficiency.
- Replace the battery once every 12 months for optimal performance and longevity.
6.1. Waterproofing (IP66 Rated)
The solar panel is rated IP66 for water and dust resistance. To maintain its waterproof function:
- After installing the battery, ensure the waterproof silicone gasket is properly seated. This is critical for sealing.
- Tighten the screws to apply sufficient pressure to the silicone gasket.
- Use the screw waterproof silicone plugs from the accessory bag to seal all 8 screw holes.
Image: IP66 test and sealing strip detail.
Video: Demonstrating the IP67 waterproof test and Meshtastic app functionality.
7. Troubleshooting (FAQ & Help)
- Q: Is there a limit on battery capacity?
- A: No limitations, but 3000mAh is recommended.
- Q: Is it possible to work with less than 6PCS batteries installed?
- A: Yes, 1-6PCS will work. 6PCS is recommended.
- Q: Why does my device only work for a few hours?
- A: The power consumption of your device is greater than the charging power of the solar panel.
- Q: Why does the orange LED go out once the solar panel is connected to my device?
- A: The current demanded by your device is too high, and the solar panel is overcurrent protected.
- Q: Why don't all the lights on the solar panel light up?
- A: Please check if the battery is faulty or drained, or replace with a new battery to test again.
- Q: Why is the orange LED off?
- A: The panel detects a low battery and stops outputting power.
- Q: Is it necessary to turn on the on button when charging the solar panel?
- ഉ: അതെ.
- Q: Why does it charge with a USB charger and not with sunlight?
- A: Sunlight charges less quickly than your device consumes, so the battery may never reach full charge.
8 സ്പെസിഫിക്കേഷനുകൾ
| ഫീച്ചർ | സ്പെസിഫിക്കേഷൻ |
|---|---|
| മോഡൽ നമ്പർ | U4-6B |
| ടൈപ്പ് ചെയ്യുക | സോളാർ ചാർജറുകൾ |
| സോളാർ പാനൽ പവർ | 4W (also available in 8W, 12W, 16W, 20W, 25W) |
| ബാറ്ററി തരം | Max 6pcs 18650 Battery (not included) |
| ബാറ്ററി ശേഷി | 1000mAh-3400mAh/Pcs (recommended >3000mAh) |
| Charge Time (4W panel) | 18h-20h |
| എംപിപിടി | No (Yes for higher wattage panels) |
| Sunshine Detection | No (Yes for 20W/25W panels) |
| Putട്ട്പുട്ട് വോളിയംtagഇ ഓപ്ഷനുകൾ | 3.7-4.2V (max 2000mA), 5V (max 2400mA), 12V (max 1500mA) |
| കേബിൾ നീളം | 2 മീ (6.56 അടി) |
| DC Plug Types | 3.5X1.35mm DC Plug, Micro USB, Type C, 5.5X2.1mm DC Plug |
| സംരക്ഷണ നില | IP66 |
| അളവുകൾ | 170mm (0.56 ft) x 115mm (0.38 ft) x 30mm (0.1 ft) |
Image: Solar panel dimensions.
8.1. Power Output Table
The following table shows the current of devices that can be perfectly and continuously powered by solar panels:
| സോളാർ പാനൽ പവർ | Putട്ട്പുട്ട് വോളിയംtages | The power of your device |
|---|---|---|
| 4W | 5V | Watt<0.45W; Current<88mA |
| 12V | Watt<0.45W; Current<40mA | |
| 12W | 5V | Watt<1.6W; Current<320mA |
| 12V | Watt<1.6W; Current<133mA | |
| 25W | 5V | Watt<3W; Current<600mA |
| 12V | Watt<3W; Current<250mA |
9. Compatibility (Suitable Devices)
This solar panel is suitable for powering various low-power outdoor devices:
- Hunting Camera & PIR Camera: Provides continuous power. (Note: 12V2A cameras are not supported for 7x24 operation).
- Router & AP Devices: Ideal for outdoor 4G routers in locations without external power.
- Camping Lights & Emergency Power: Can power outdoor LEDs and serve as an emergency power source.
- Phones & Mini Fan & Small Family Devices: Powers cell phones, small home devices, and more.
10 ഉപയോക്തൃ നുറുങ്ങുകൾ
- വാല്യംtagഇ തിരഞ്ഞെടുക്കൽ: The choice between 3.7V and 5V output depends on the specific voltage requirements of your device and the batteries you are using. Always match the output voltage of the solar panel to the input voltage of your connected device to prevent damage. 5V is a common USB standard, while 3.7V is typical for single Li-ion cells.
- ആന്റിന ഗുണനിലവാരം: The included antennas feature a copper tube design for better signal reception compared to PCB antennas. Each antenna undergoes a VSWR test to ensure consistent performance.
- PV Panel Quality: The PV panels are inspected with an EL camera to ensure quality. Defective panels are discarded.
- Charging Port Variation: The charging port position may vary slightly between versions. Both old and new designs function identically.
Image: Comparison of old and new charging port designs.
Image: Antenna comparison (PCB vs. Copper Tube).
Image: VSWR test results for 868MHz and 915MHz antennas.
Image: PV panel QC inspection (qualified vs. defective).
11. പിന്തുണ
If you have any problems with the product, please contact the sellers. We are available from 09:00 to 21:00 to help solve your problems.
