Global Solar Energy P3 Series User manual

P3 - Portable Solar Power Panel
Instructions
CAUTION: Please read the following instructions before operating your P3 Folding Solar Power Panel
P3 Portable Solar Power Panels convert sunlight directly into
12 V electricity—ideal for recharging consumer electronics and
maintaining vehicle batteries.
The P3 Portable Solar Power Panel is an unregulated solar
panel intended for battery charging. Open circuit voltage
(unconnected) can be as high as 55 volts (for 48W 24V P3
panel). Always consult manufacturer’s specification before use.
Contact your P3 dealer for more information.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS
Model P3 15 P3 30
Max Power: 15 W 30 W
Nominal System
Voltage: 12 V – 16V 12 V – 16V
Open Circuit
Voltage 36 28
Rated Current: .78 Amps 1.5 Amps
Weight: 1.42 lbs 1.84 lbs
Open Size: 28 1/2 x 21 1/2 in
72.39 x 54.61(cm) 44 1/2 x 21 1/2 in 113.03 x 54.61(cm)
Folded Size: 10 1/2 x 8 1/2 in
26.67 x 21.59(cm) 10 1/2 x 8 1/2 in 26.67 x 21.59 (cm)
Model P3 48 P3 55
Max Power: 48 W 55W
Nominal System
Voltage: 12 V – 16V/24 V 12 V – 16V
Open Circuit
Voltage 28/55 30
Rated Current: 2.5/1.2 Amps 2.8 Amps
Weight: 3.2 lbs 3.5 lbs
Open Size: 52 1/2 x 30 in
133.35 x 76.2(cm) 55 x 32 in 139.7 x 81.28(cm)
Folded Size: 14 1/2 x 8 1/5 in
36.83 x 21.59(cm) 11 x 9 in 27.94 x 22.86(cm)
For additional specifications see the Global Solar website at
www.globalsolar.com
Product Application Chart
Application Charge Time – C
Laptop* C 4 - 10 hrs.
Car Battery C 7 – 24 hrs.
Portable Powerpack (150W) C 4 - 7 hrs.
Portable Powerpack (300W) C 4 - 7 hrs.
Portable Powerpack (600W) C 9 - 17 hrs.
Portable Powerpack (1500) C 20 - 37 hrs.
*Requires an auxiliary battery for consistent stream of current.
NOTE: Charge times are estimates only, and depend on several
factors including device, weather and season.
The overall performance of the Folding Solar Power Panel is
dependent on a variety of conditions including season,
orientation with direct sunlight, cloudy conditions, temperature,
and shadowing. As a result, ‘typical’ performance parameters
are dependent on the placement of the Folding Solar Power
Panel.
IMPORTANT SYSTEM CARE INSTRUCTIONS:
•Although the Folding Solar Power Panel is flexible,
ONLY FOLD the natural creases in the all-cloth portions
of the panel.
•DO NOT FOLD with the solar cells facing outward.
•DO NOT FOLD or crease the solar panel on sharp
edges or objects.
•DO NOT CRUMPLE OR IMPROPERLY BEND
PANELS.
•DO NOT excessively flex or bend the panel as this
could cause the plastic layers to crease or bubble.
•DO NOT machine wash, machine dry, or dry clean the
panel.
•ALWAYS charge vehicle lead-acid batteries in a well-
ventilated area.
•DO NOT attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries.
•ALWAYS ensure correct polarity of the connections
before attaching. DO NOT connect vehicle power plug
cable to vehicle power outlet cable.
•Use GSE extension cord (PN 28007) to attach any of
the cable accessories together.
•The Folding Solar Power Panel is designed for portable
outdoor use. Fold and store when not in use.
FOLDING SOLAR POWER PANEL APPLICATIONS/HOW
TO USE
CAUTION: Ensure that you completely understand this
instruction manual before using your P3 Folding Solar Power
Panel.
1. Vehicle Batteries
Application: Trickle charges and maintains car/RV/marine
batteries.
Recommended use: Connect 12 V vehicle power plug to
the 8’ extension accessory cable and then to the Folding
Solar Panel. Insert the 12 V vehicle power plug directly into
your car’s cigarette lighter outlet. Place the solar charger so
that it receives direct sunlight.
OR
Applied with care, battery clamps accessory cable may also
be used and attached directly to the battery from the solar
panel and a Charge Controller (see Fig. 2). It is the user’s
responsibility to consult battery manufacturer for
recommended charging method.
2. Laptop Computers
Application: Additional run time for Laptop Computers
Recommended use: Plug laptop computer wall plug
charger into the 120 AC Socket on the Xantrex unit and into
your laptop. Connect one end of 8’ extension cable to solar
panel and other end to 4” barrel plug cable. Plug 4” barrel
plug cable into the jack on the end of the Xantrex unit.
3. Consumer Electronics
Xantrex Portable Powerpacks
Application: Charges Xantrex Portable Powerpacks 150 -
600 product line.
How to use: Connect the 4” barrel plug to the Folding Solar
Power Panel. Insert the 4” barrel plug directly into the jack
on the end of the Xantrex Powerpack. Place the panel in
direct sunlight. AC or DC power outlets on Xantrex
Powerpack can be used to plug in laptop computers or
other electronic devices while solar panel is charging.
Handheld Devices, Rechargeable Batteries, 12 V
Accessories
Application: Care MUST be taken by the user connecting a
solar panel to small electronic devices. The user must
consult with the device manufacturer prior to connecting
electronic devices to a solar module directly or through a
car charger adapter to ensure that the device can be
connected to a solar module with an open circuit voltage as
high as 55 volts.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES (see Fig. 1 & 2):
5 Piece Kit Includes:
•12 V vehicle power plug
•12 V vehicle power receptacle
•Battery clamps
•4 in. barrel connector
•8 ft. extension cable
Sold Separately:
•7Amp Charge Controller (Fig. 2)
•8 ft. extension cable
TROUBLESHOOTING
•Inspect the connections between P3 Folding Solar
Power Panel and the device you are attempting to
charge.
•Inspect all plugs, outlets, clamps, connectors and
cables to ensure they are not damaged or cut.
•If the connections are all secure, use a volt meter or 12
V test light to check voltage between the positive and
negative electrodes. This check should be done using
the 12 V vehicle power plug.
•For vehicle and AA/AAA battery charging, check to
make sure that the battery is in good condition. Over
time, battery performance decreases. If the battery
performance is weakened, the battery may need to be
replaced.
•Note: Some portable electronics such as computers
require more power (current) than the solar power
panel produces. If problems persist you may require a
larger solar power panel.
FAQs
How do I know that my P3 Folding Solar Power Panel
is working?
Check the charge indicator light or bar on the handheld
electronics or accessory. For battery charging, the product
can be tested with a volt meter.
Will this product drain my battery at night?
No. The P3 Folding Solar Power Panel has a built-in
blocking diode that prevents the solar array from
discharging your battery at night.
What happens if the solar power panel gets wet?
The P3 Folding Solar Power Panel is made from water-
resistant material. Wipe the product with a clean, dry cloth
and allow the product to dry before folding for storage.
DO NOT keep the product in or underwater.
Can I leave the solar power panel outside for continual
use?
Yes the P3 Folding Solar Power Panels are designed for
portable outdoor use. To prolong the life of the P3 Folding
Solar Power Panels we recommend once your application
is finished charging (see charge times from chart), wipe
the product with a clean, dry cloth, allow the product to
dry, fold and store.
Should the solar power panel be disconnected from
the car battery when starting the engine?
No, the solar power panel can remain connected and will
not affect operation of the vehicle or any of the vehicle’s
electronic components
1-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
The P3 product carries a one (1) year limited warranty
against defects in workmanship and materials affecting
performance. Global Solar agrees to replace the
defective product free of charge, within the stated
warranty period, when returned by the original
purchaser with proof of purchase. This product is not
guaranteed against wear or breakage due to misuse
and/or abuse. In addition, any units that show signs of
creasing or folding on the active photovoltaic areas are
not covered under this warranty.
NOTE: Since the conditions or methods of operation, use
and maintenance of PV modules are beyond its control,
the Manufacturer does not assume responsibility and
expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage or expense
arising out of or in any way connected with such operation,
use or maintenance.
!WARNING – Folding Solar Power Panel generates
electricity when exposed to light, even when not
connected in a circuit. Shocks and burns can result
from contact with module output wiring, misuse or
improper connections. Contact battery manufacturer
for questions on battery specifications before
charging.
Fig. 1 Fig. 2