SOLAR OFF-GRID POWER FINISHED
Iam running my laptop and lights off it right now as I write this blog! The full solar system breakdown goes like this..
Solar Panel IP30F (made in USA) $178.00 online from http://store.altenergystore.com/Solar-Electric-Panels/1-to-50-Watt-Solar-Panels/Innergy-Power-Corporation-IP30F-30W-12V-Fiberglass-Solar-Modu/p687/
Energizer deep cycle 27m 120 amp/hours battery $80.00 pep boys
Autocraft Deep cycle/RV 24m 72 amp/hours battery $60.00 Advanced autoparts
(running both in parallel)
Vector 400WATT inverter / Filtered (stops snow on TV's ect) MOD/SINE $29.99 after rebate from Pep Boys
Phocos Solar Charger Controller 5amp 12/24volt CML08-2 $24.99 Online at Alt.energy(see above link).
Cables i used were from an outdoor power extension cord. :) work a charm with NO power loss ect.. (just a bit larger core than 13 AWG almost 10AWG. (free from Mom hehe)
I added a home built "A" frame to the solar panel so I can stand it very easily, and turn it to the sun when iam around in the daytime. (Pic on top is before complete frame was done). Also made a wood box for the batteries sit in with the front being a larger wood panel. Both inverter and Charger are mounted to the battery box.(see picture above).
Well i have been running this for a few days now and havent run the batteries down passed 50% yet , and I use alot of power for my laptop (DTR 17" screen Dual raided HD). I run that 6 to 8 hours a day . The ip30f panel keep the batteries at max almost all day. Checked with multimeter and it gives out over 19volts at 2.2amps (full sun) well impressed with it.(Made in America means something here).
Well iam off the grid for most of my electronics now! Iam loving it. Reports say that the power i make with this system pay for itself in approx 3.3 years or less depending on sun in your area. I for one belive it seeing as the use iam getting from it already!
CYA later - happy alternative power hunting!