Alignment and Pitch
To ensure the best use of the solar panel, we recommend collecting information on the appro-
priate alignment and pitch.
The optimal alignment (and, thus, optimal saturation) is obtained when the sun's beams strike
the surface of the solar unit at a right angle.
The optimal alignment depends on the location (latitude), as well as the
desired function.
There are marginal deviations within Germany.
However, there are considerable differences between Norway and Italy.
Principally, the following rules apply: The further South you are, the better the
output will be with horizontally mounted surfaces.
In Berlin, the maximum radiation can be obtained with surfaces pitched at 30°
aligned in a southerly direction, thus, approximately 100% efficiency is pos-
sible at this latitude.
Rear Ventilation
Ensure there is functioning ventilation of the solar panel. Thus, heat rises and a reduced output
are prevented. Furthermore, condensed water can dry better.
The colder it is, the better the efficiency of the solar cell.
A 65°C warm solar panel on a south-facing wall generates approx. 60% of the
power that the same solar panel would generate at a temperature of 25°C on
a 30° pitched south-facing roof.
Connection
For connecting the solar panel, only use cable extensions and plugs that are
suitable for outdoor use and solar devices.
Choose the correct cable cross-section to minimise the voltage drop (calcu-
late the minimum cable cross-section with a voltage drop max. 1% and mini-
mum loading capacity of 1.25 x open circuit voltage and 1.25 x short-circuit
current).
Only use appropriate UV resistant cable connectors when laying the connec-
tion cables. Protect bare cables from damage by taking appropriate precau-
tions (e.g. lay in suitable plastic tubing).
Ensure you connect them with the correct polarity. The correct polarity is labelled on the con-
nection terminals inside the junction box.
There is a cable strain relief system inside the junction box. The cable led through must be
secured using this system.
Maintenance and Cleaning
With an appropriate pitch (>15°), it is not necessary to clean the solar panel. In this case, self-
cleaning by rainfall is assured.
Significant contamination leads to a reduced output. In this case, we recommend cleaning with
water (garden hose) without cleaning agents. Use gentle cleansing materials (e.g. sponge) to
avoid scratch marks.
Examine the solar panel regularly for contamination.
Observe the following points concerning maintenance:
Work on PV equipment (installation, connection, commissioning, mainte-
nance, repair) may only be carried out by qualified and authorised personnel.
• Secure and protect against the corrosion of all mounting materials.
• Correct connection, protection against corrosion and cleanliness of all cable connections.
• Examine the cable connection for visible damage.
• Check the earth resistance of the metals.
Disposal
This solar panel contains Cadmium - Telluride. Thus, this is treated as special waste. For dis-
posal, contact the local authorities responsible for disposal (your municipality) or take directly to
a disposal company.
Technical Data
a) 5W-12V Solarmodul (Item-No.: 110390)
Power:
Open circuit voltage:
Short-circuit current:
Nominal voltage:
Nominal current:
Dimensions:
Weight:
Protection type:
b) 20W-12V Solarmodul (Item-No.: 110391)
Power:
Open circuit voltage:
Short-circuit current:
Nominal voltage:
Nominal current:
Dimensions:
Weight:
Protection type:
These operating instructions are a publication by Conrad Electronic SE, Klaus-Conrad-Str. 1, D-92240
Hirschau (www.conrad.com).
All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction by any method, e.g. photocopy, microfilming, or
the capture in electronic data processing systems require the prior written approval by the editor.
Reprinting, also in part, is prohibited.
These operating instructions represent the technical status at the time of printing. Changes in
technology and equipment reserved.
© Copyright 2009 by Conrad Electronic SE.
max. 5 Watt
21.6 V
0.3 A
17.6 V
0.28 A
approx. 265 x 220 x 18 mm
approx. 0.8 kg
IP65
max. 20 Watt
21,6 V
1,22 A
17,6 V
1,14 A
approx. 530 x 340 x 28 mm
approx. 2,6 kg
IP65