Beginner questions...want to start small.

Steve,

I have several entries on my blog about starting small.  If you look through my archives I'm sure you'll find some useful information.

I suggest that you start out with a "real" solar panel, (not something from a gadget).  You'll be able to add panels as your budget will allow, and eventually have a system will provide a useful amount of energy. You'll also have a sealed unit that will be able to survive bad weather.  But whatever way you choose to start out, at least you'll be learning.

Keep us posted on your progress.

http://solarjohn.blogspot.com

John

John, I was looking at your site, and I think what I'm trying to build is almost exactly as what's in the picture you have posted on October 31, 2007.  (Specifically, image DSC00740.JPG.)

From what it looks like, you have a couple batteries, connected to a variety of other things...  Do you have (or know of) a tutorial to build something like that?  Something that lists the various components (batteries, inverters, plugs, other stuff I don't even know about) and how to put them all together?

As far as charging it from either solar or AC power - I live in the Pacific Northwest, and when the power is out...that generally means that there isn't going to be much sunlight.  I'm guessing that after a night or two of using a backup system like this (basics..radio, light, heat), that the amount of solar power I could harness (for the price I'm willing to pay for my first solar project) wouldn't allow me  to continue on for very long.  (I also have a diesel generator, so if the power is out for long, solar power would be "assisted" for as long as the fuel remains.)  =)

Thanks everyone...  I'll try search on Google for some nice clear instructions...from looking at that box of batteries, components, and wires, I think that's what I'm actually looking to build.



Steve

"I'm guessing that after a night or two of using a backup system like this (basics..radio, light, heat), that the amount of solar power I could harness (for the price I'm willing to pay for my first solar project) wouldn't allow me  to continue on for very long."

usually once you say "heat" or "fridge" your system is no longer small.

check out this link to see a schematic of a small system.  you can ignore the parts you dont need, but often the pics are helpful

http://store.altenergystore.com/Kits-and-Package-Deals/Off-Grid-Systems-Cabin-Systems/Off-Grid-Cabin-Special-Pkg-1/p5692/

if you intend to run your generator through an ac charger you can get a separate one
http://store.altenergystore.com/Charge-Controllers/AC-Charge-Controllers/c473/



, or you can get one integrated into your inverter, but now, again, your small system is no longer small.  those are usually called inverter/chargers and the smallest we have is 500w, and the largest is now 6000w.

cheers,

james Alt-E staff