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How to Make a Solar Panel to Power a Remote Control

Solar cells are semiconductors that can convert sunlight into electrical energy. Like batteries, they are able to power electronic devices such as radios, calculators and remotes. Most of them are made from silicon. A typical solar cell can only output 0.5 volts, and has a current that depends on the amount of sunlight it receives. It is therefore usually combined with others to form panels that output larger voltages or current. To make a solar panel to power a remote control, determine how many solar cells need to be combined to meet the device̵7;s power requirements.

Things You'll Need

Solar cells
Panel holder
Remote
Paper
Pen
Jumper wire

Instructions

- 1
  Collect the information on the amount of voltage and current the remote needs to operate. This information is called the load voltage and current. Use pen and paper to record your findings.
- 2
  Ascertain the voltage and current specifications for the solar cell. This can be obtained from the manufacturer.
- 3
  Calculate how many cells need to be connected in series to output the required voltage. A series connection means that the positive and negative terminals of the cells are attached together. Their voltages add, but they share the same current.
- 4
  Calculate how many cells need to be connected in parallel to output the required amperage. A parallel connection means that the positive terminals of the cells are connected to one point, and the negative terminals are connected to another point. Their currents add, but they share the same voltage.
- 5
  Design the panel on a sheet of paper. Use blocks or circles to represent the cells, and lines to represent the connection wires.
- 6
  Perform the calculations for a solar panel for a remote that uses 2 AA batteries and draws 100 mA. Assume the solar cell has specs of 0.5 volts and 100 milliamps. Each battery is 1.5 volts, so the total voltage required is 3.0 volts. This means that the number of panels required is 3.0/0.05 = 6. A parallel connection is not needed.
- 7
  Design the panel. Place six cells directly next to each other. Alternatively, draw two columns that have three cells each.
- 8
  Build the panel. Place the cells inside of the holder. Attach a jumper wire to the positive lead of cell one. The wire will be used to connect the panel to the input or plus terminal of the remote.
- 9
  Use jumper wires to connect cell one̵7;s negative lead to cell two̵7;s positive lead. Afterward, connect cell two̵7;s negative lead to cell three̵7;s positive lead. Use the same procedure to connect the remaining cells, until cell six is reached. Connect cell six̵7;s plus lead to the cell five̵7;s negative lead. Place a jumper wire at cell six̵7;s negative lead. The wire will be used to connect the panel to the remote̵7;s minus terminal.

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