cells needed

System
System Posts: 2,511 admin
in Solar Beginners Corner #1
So as a beginner with lots of time on my hands . Does any one have any ideas as where I could just purchase a bunch of cells then I could just solder them together into a panel myself instead of purchasing a ready made one. I am in Wisconsin
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  • BB.
    BB. Super Moderators, Administrators Posts: 33,637 admin
    #2
    Re: cells needed

    Ebay is probably as good as place as any.

    -Bill
    Near San Francisco California: 3.5kWatt Grid Tied Solar power system+small backup genset
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  • Cariboocoot
    Cariboocoot Banned Posts: 17,615 ✭✭✭
    #3
    Re: cells needed

    You should also read these two threads, just so you know what you're getting into:

    http://forum.solar-electric.com/showthread.php?t=5290

    http://forum.solar-electric.com/showthread.php?t=5880
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  • john p
    john p Solar Expert Posts: 814 ✭✭✭
    #4
    Re: cells needed

    You may find its a bit harder to make a successful solar panel than just"solder a few cells together" are you experienced with electronics parts soldering? The other major problem is the sealing of them to keep out moisture. much easier said than done by the home handyperson
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  • System2
    System2 Posts: 6,290 admin
    #5
    Re: cells needed

    I am a truck mechanic by trade and I do more electrical diag than physical labor. I am also disabled due to an accident I had. I feel that I should be able to figure out any problems I may have doing a panel construction however since I am new I will always be reading up on the subject and will more than likely ask any questions that need to be answered. I may also be a little slow at pace too. Ed
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  • BB.
    BB. Super Moderators, Administrators Posts: 33,637 admin
    #6
    Re: cells needed

    The problem is that it is very difficult to build a solar panel, cheaply, that will last more than a few months or a year. And there is some possible downside for people that attempt to build large panels--more than a few tens of watts (fire is a real possibility since most people build their panels out of plastics and wood).

    There are other DYI projects that usually have better $$$/results ratios... Solar Thermal panels (water or air) are one.

    I am trying not to be too negative here--since we have had that discussion before (thread was closed as the the subject was pretty much beat to death)...

    Poster "Raytech" said he was successful in building his panel--perhaps he can help you with his experience (been a week since he was last online--so it may take a bit before he can reply--or you can send him a PM directly).

    -Bill
    Near San Francisco California: 3.5kWatt Grid Tied Solar power system+small backup genset
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