Hey /diy/
I have a question: A solar panel I have has a 5 watt output but only releases .65 volts and over 7 amps. If I hooked it up it a converter that has a 5 volt input, would the converter still work? I ask this because with 5 watts you could have a 5 volt 1 amp output. I apologize if seems like im making no sense.
no, you need to be in the input voltage range for the converter
>>944356
elaborate?
>>944356
How could one do that
>>944360
stick 8 of those panels in series
>>944383
Actually, OP needs some more. As pic related shows, the rated voltage is only reached at optimum conditions. 0.35-0.4V would be a more realistic approach. Therefore, at least 14 of such cells need to be connected in series.
A better approach would be IMHO to buy a cheap "12V" (actually more like 17V max) solar panel with 10-20W, which are quite cheap nowadays. Then, simply connect an MPPT tracker-like device to it, dial the input voltage to min 15V and the output voltage to max 5.2V, and you're set. I own this very device, and it works just excellent.
Read this:
http://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/charging_with_solar_and_turbine
Buy this:
http://www.ebay.de/itm/MPPT-Solar-Panel-Controller-5A-DC-DC-Step-down-CC-CV-Charging-Module-LED-Display-/401014203699?hash=item5d5e4f2533:g:t4QAAOSwl9BWJg4Z
