Load-shedding in South Africa calls for Solar Power Supply V 1

Once again South Africans got to lately endure load-shedding.  I was sick and tired to reset nodes and equipment after the power comes back on.  Not to talk about possible damage to equipment due to unstable voltages and spikes. The Raspberry Pi's do not like power fluctuation and being switched on and off without  shutting it down as prescribed.  I  decided to build the first Solar Power Supply V1 (some call it a generator) with the following futures:

1. Must be portable and light weight.
2. Must be rain /damp proof.
3. Need several outputs.  2 x Terminals, 1 x Car Cigarette Lighter Socket and  2 - 4 USB Power Socket. (2 x 5v 3Amp and 2 x 5v 1 Amp)
4. Solar Voltage, Battery Voltage, Cut off Voltage, Floating Voltage, Discharge Reconnect Voltage and Discharge Reconnect Voltage must be visible via the Solar Charge Controller.
5. Up Power Converter and Down Power Converter for Raspberry Pi and other equipment.
6. Space for accessories.
7. Must provide adequate power and amps for at least two - three hours. 
8. Battery Supply: 12v 12Ah Gel Battery
   

I am not going to go into detail of how to construct this unit as this is available freely on YouTube and several web-pages.  The photos provide detail of the build.

Above:  Plastic Toolbox

Above: Connectors, Fuse Holder and Battery fitted

Above:  Battery Charger and Solar Panel Input

Above:  "Spider Network"

Above: Connectors and Solar Controller fitted

Above:  Up and running

Above:  Output detail

Above: Accessory Cables, Battery Charger and fittings

Above:  Second Toolbox that housed all the Acc. Cables, Battery Charger and fittings

 

Above:  All fired up!!

 

Above:  LED light fitted to light up the supply box.

I post this topic to hopefully encourage others to build their own portable solar power supply for use in amateur radio or domestic purposes.

 

I am quite pleased with the outcome of the Solar Power Supply. It is functional, small and light weight to carry around as a "Go Box".  This unit is used for QRP operations and to charge cellphones.  A real handy and versatile little Solar Power Supply.

Finally:  A word of warning!!  Please do not build a Solar Power Supply or Inverter Power Supply if you do not have experience in working with electricity.  Electricity can kill and fires is common if safety precautions and regulations are not adhere to.  Your insurance company will not pay a claim should your house burn down as a result of bad workmanship.  Ensure that your unit has all the safety equipment installed should things go south.  Safety measures ensure that no fires occur due to equipment failure or short circuits.  You have been warned!!