does the folding solar panel need to be protected, If not plugged in, from solar flare or emp?
321877
I merely protect the surface of the panels from scratching, by housing the panels in the cardboard box it was shipped in. The panel surfaces fold outward, rather than inward, hence vulnerable to scratches. I have not done anything to protect them from an environmentally-induced current.
1499663
There is a protective film on the square solar panel. Though it is clear I removed mine and set it in the sun on my window ledge for a day. They started vibrating strongly. I could both hear and feel the vibration. I hope this helps you.
901338
There is no solar panel. This radio operates on 4 D batteries or 110v AC. If you want something with solar look at Ambient Weather WR-335 ADVENTURER2 Emergency Solar Hand Crank AM/FM/SW/WB Weather Alert Radio, Flashlight, Siren, Smart Phone Charger OrEton FRX5 Hand Crank Emergency Weather Radio with SAME Alerts
1398454
I have this unit on the outside panel, of course its partially protected by roof overhang. unless you've handle high voltage repairs/installs before I would have an electrician do this! after all, you're not surge protected...
1015333
This is a high voltage product, so I would not recommend leaving the plug laying outside. I have mine in my garage and I have my EV outside. I plug it in at night and close the door on the cord. In the morning, I roll the cord up and plug it back into the charger.
1852046
The panel has a short cord (pig tail) with a red wire (positive) and a black wire (negative) encase in a protective tube. It is ready to be installed but use appropriate wire connectors, spade connectors or butt connectors. Make sure to have the panel covered with a non transparent cloth, like a towel to prevent accidental shorting of any wires or controller during installation. Choose location to have maximum sun exposure at the appropriate angle towards the sun.
480360
It depends on the level of discharge, sun exposure, etcetera. I keep mine connected to the solar panel during use.
2205413
If it's not mounted you could possibly use it somewhere else, the disconnect from the solar panel is beyond the mounting plate. It does not need to be connected to the solar panel to work.
571014
Mine is plugged in 24 - 7, but as far as leaving it plugged outside with no protection from the elements I probably wouldn't do that. I have mine inside a pole barn and I don't remember getting any paper work either. You'll want to check the water level daily, cause the water level seems to evaporate.
189048
I is important to allow the cell to gather solar energy. If the film is left in place, it may hinder the reception and storage of energy.
1188946
The unit does come with an instruction booklet, but does not mention a concern about the panel itself overheating. I am going to leave my windows cracked to alleviate some of the heat, but the warnings do mention a concern over the connected/charging electronics themselves overheating in the sun. I plan to place the electronics in the charging pouch, and leave my windows cracked a little to avoid the greenhouse effect on the inside of my vehicle. I think this will work fine. I have had my phone overheat before in the direct sunlight, but in the shade it works fine, so I have a feeling that it should recharge no problem in the pouch.
1717730
This radio with the USB connector is made for what it is made for.... small things like phones and maybe tablets. Even tablet charging is asking for a lot. The charging circuit is very limited. If we did ever get an EMP or CME pulse from the sun it will fry the electronics of this radio. Remember this radio has IC circuits in it. A blast of X-Ray energy will wipe it out. I guess if you are not using the radio and have removed any battery's from the radio you could wrap it in about 5 layers of heavy duty aluminium foil. That may be enough to stop an EMP or CME blast from wiping it out.
261652
I would put a breaker on the positive or negative wire from the solar panel & flip it so u break the circuit when u don't want the power.
1534676
I don't think this Battery Tender solar panel is made for outdoor use. It should placed inside the trailer, behind a south facing window, to receive maximum sun exposure.
1152737
I was not aware of one and I hooked it up without breaking it.If you have a panel in the sun however, I would think that hooking up the batteries and any accessories first would be the right thing to do, followed by the panels connection
1627263
Yes. It has a gasket to protect it from the elements. I have mine mounted outside on my travel trailer to quickly turn off my battery and there has been no issues.
2138237
I don't believe that it would charge to well if it was raining (no sun). The electronics are mounted underneath the panels, should be protected.