I PowerFilm Module Polarity Information It is extremely important to recognize the correct polarity of the PowerFilm modules The positive end of the solar module is shown in the diagram below. A diode, such as 1N5817, is recommended to prevent the solar module from draining the battery when the solar module is in the dark. A diode is not required for a battery-free electrical device. The positive end of the module connects to the positive end of the load. The negative end of the module is also shown in the diagram and should be connected to the negative end of the load. The recommended connector wire size is a minimum size of 24 gauge. As an extra measure, connect the solar module to a digital multimeter for polarity (+,-) identification. On solar modules with copper tape leads, remove a small piece of the clear coating that is on top of the copper tape to ensure good contact between the alligator clips of the digital multimeter and the copper tape. Warning Do not connect a charged battery backwards or reverse polarity to the solar module, this will destroy the solar module and may cause the battery to explode causing bodily harm, even death II PowerFilm Module Selection Select PowerFilm modules according to 1) Operating Voltage and Operating Current Required, 2) Use Environment, and 3) any Specific Applications Needs. 1. Module Selection: Operating Voltage and Operating Current Required Identify the Operating Voltage and Operating Current that your system requires. For direct powering devices, calculate the requirements of the total system. For charging batteries, see the notes below: DO NOT CHARGE ALKALINE BATTERIES. THEY ARE NOT RECHARGEABLE. CONTACT YOUR BATTERY MANUFACTURER FOR CONFIRMATION THAT YOUR BATTERY IS APPROPRIATE FOR YOUR SYSTEM WITH THE SOLAR MODULE. Charging Batteries: Voltage First, select the required Operating Voltage of the solar module for your load. As a general rule of thumb, a solar module with an Operating Voltage of 3-3.6 volts will charge 2 AA rechargeable 1.2 volt batteries. A solar module with an Operating Voltage of 7.2 volts will charge 5 AA rechargeable 1.2 volt batteries or a 6 volt gel or lead acid battery. A solar module with an Operating Voltage of 15.4 volts will charge a 12 volt gel or lead acid battery. Charging Batteries: Current Second, select the appropriate Operating Current of the solar module to charge your load. As a general rule, do not charge a rechargeable battery with more current than 10% of its rated capacity. For example, a 700mA-hour battery can be safely charged with a solar module that delivers an Operating Current up to 70mA. Connecting Modules for Higher Operating Voltage and Current You can parallel and series connect solar modules to achieve higher voltage (series connected) or higher current (parallel connected). However, only put like modules together: for example, two MP3-37s or two MP7.2-75s, but do not mix them. Parallel connecting two similar modules will double the output current and series connecting three identical modules will triple the output voltage. WARNING WE DO NOT RECOMMEND SERIES CONNECTING SOLAR MODULES FOR AN OUTPUT VOLTAGE GREATER THAN 48V. VOLTAGES ABOVE THIS CAN BE DEADLY The diagram below graphically demonstrates parallel and series connected solar modules: 2. Module Selection: Use Environment If the use environment is a permanent outdoor direct exposure environment, it is essential that the solar module system be UV-stabilized and protected from moisture. (In rare cases this may not be important if the required lifetime is less than one year.) Solar modules in the PowerFilm WeatherPro Series are specifically designed for permanent outdoor direct exposure environments. Other use environments are generally less demanding and do not require the added protection offered by the PowerFilm WeatherPro Series. Use environments and usage patterns vary significantly. Always test the selected solar module in its specific use environment and according to the usage pattern to confirm it meets those aspects of the specific application needs. 3. Module Selection: Specific Application Needs Some applications have specific needs. Examples include: ultra thin profile, specific footprint, ability to connect the solar module to the load from the back side of the module, pressure sensitive adhesive, etc. To meet specification needs we have developed several PowerFilm Series.