Portable Solar Panel

PowerFilm solar panel torture and durability test. Will it continue charging? How long will it last?
Hello Operators.
This demonstration helps answer one of the "Why PowerFilm?" for portable ham radio questions, so often seen in the comments. In my experience, PowerFilm Solar provides portable solar panels for ham radio, that are both man-portable and robust. In this video, we can watch this folding solar panel taking multiple hits from a .25 caliber rifle while continuing to perform.
Not everyone "needs" such a panel. For those having mission-critical requirements, it's nice to know the PowerFilm option exists.
PowerFilm Solar is an American company. Its panels are designed and manufactured in the Midwest town of Ames Iowa.
73
Julian #oh8stn #hamradio #solarpower
Video URL: • Portable Solar Panel
Blog post: oh8stn.org/blo... Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

[@dougdaniels]

If only PowerFilm could produce panels that provide cover as well as concealment... 🤕🤣

[@OH8STN]

🤣

[@OH8STN]

Actually, I wonder what would stop PowerFilm from using Kevlar as a backing material for small arms cover!? Your joke is a brilliant idea! @dougdaniels

[@Ammed_KN6STX]

Julian, you need to tighten up those groups!!!!😉

[@OH8STN]

Aye aye Sergeant Major 🤣👍

[@howardbernier2289]

😂

[@OH8STN]

Hello Operators. This demonstration helps answer one of the "Why PowerFilm?" questions, so often seen in the comments. In my experience, PowerFilm Solar provides portable solar panels that are both man-portable and robust. This video shows this folding solar panel taking multiple hits from a .25 caliber rifle while continuing to perform. Not everyone "needs" such a panel. For those having mission-critical requirements, it's nice to know the PowerFilm option exists. PowerFilm Solar is an American company. Its panels are designed and manufactured in the Midwest town of Ames Iowa. 73 Julian oh8stn Video URL: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2eueH96atKeeqs Blog post: oh8stn.org/blog/2023/08/01/powerfilm-solar-panel-vs-hunting-rifle/

[@chrissewell1608]

I thought that the frozen tundra, had finally pushed you over the edge. You'd snapped, and said The Hell with this Ham Radio Stuff! Ha ha... Next, you'll be trying to explode your HF radio!

[@OH8STN]

You never know. If it happens, It'll definitely be the bank. 😉

[@HamRadio2]

That's funny, I'm working on the same type of video, haha

[@OH8STN]

Naturally, as KZbinrs all copy each other 🤣 Seriously though, if shooting that Chinese GigaParts panel, you'll be sadly disappointed.

[@HamRadio2]

@@OH8STN nope, shooting my powerfilm 60w panel. Although trying both in the same video isn't a bad idea

[@OH8STN]

If one can't come up with some other video idea, then why not. Just hoping there's no more pretending that GigaParts solar panel is not Chinesium. It has a good price but definitely not made in America, and definitely not up to the same quality.

[@HamRadio2]

@@OH8STN I'm not aware of anyone who claimed that but who knows, I've not watched every video on KZbin

[@OH8STN]

Oh come on brother, it was your video! "Designed by GigaParts". One thing that really rips me is American companies manufacturing in China, killing US jobs, then selling that product in USA. Same with other western companies. Bioenno is notorious for pretending their batteries and solar panels are American made. Anyway knock yourself out. There are already two PF videos of panels being shot, and there's more incoming 👍

[@MyTube4Utoo]

A great demonstration/video, sir. I have a PowerFilm 220 watt panel, and although I've never shot it (and don't plan to *lol*) I can confirm that it's a beast. Expensive? Yep, extremely so, but I _know_ I can count on it. Evidently, even if some crazy guy with a .25 shoots it. 😂 The world isn't in a great state right now, obciously, and if I need to get moving, my PF panel is right next to a couple of 'Go Bags' and a few other items that I consider necessities. If it ever gets to where it's only what I can carry long distances on my back, I'll still have a smaller, lighter PF product, and at least one radio. Okay, maybe two radios. No more than three, for sure! *LOL* 🌞 📡 📻

[@OH8STN]

Thanks for the comment and kindness. Yes, reliability, survivability are critical.Expensive yes, but in tests like this, we see what we are paying for. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@grahamauld8894]

I hope that you will be making that one available at a reduced price?

[@OH8STN]

Do you think someone would want it? Wouldn't ask money for this panel, but it could be a novelty item for someone.

[@grahamauld8894]

@@OH8STN I'll pay the shipping.

[@texasfrontiersman8245]

I wish they would make their voc higher. Have you series connected any of their panels?

[@OH8STN]

I have and it works fine. They do have higher voltage panels btw.

[@andreistefan4234]

Hey Julian, Which model of solar panel is this? It doesn't look like any of the foldable ones on their website. Looks like a great size for backpacking though.

[@OH8STN]

This was a 12 watt panel. I don't think it is available any longer. Certainly provides enough power in direct sunlight to power any of the ultra-low current qrp rigs eg tx500, kx2, kx3, usdx, ic705, ... on a sunny day. The smallest have used in the field was a 7-watt rollable. These are great near mid-summer or high sun, but lack enough juice for winter ops. The size is definitely advantageous.

[@andreistefan4234]

@@OH8STN thanks for the reply. My current setup is a IC 705, an Omni Mobile 25600, a Goal Zero Nomad 28+ OR a Suntactics S5 when weight is critical. The S5 is only 5W, but works remarkably well with the OmniCharge battery. Speaking of that battery, it's really versatile and seems to be really well filtered. I've had no issues with electrical noise/EMI on any of the bands on the IC 705. 73 and thanks for all the great videos.

[@jimpiper5297]

Well, Julian, I'm guessing you're going to have to come up with onehelluva story to get PowerFilm to honor their warranty! 😂

[@OH8STN]

"Not sure what happened. Just minding my own business when these production defects just appeared". 🤣

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

🤣

[@jimpiper5297]

@@OH8STN Oh yeah, THAT should work! 🤣🤣🤣

[@MrVertigo1971]

Great video thanks. Would you recommend a Solar panel, that works with the BAT500, and is available to buy somewhere in Europe? PowerFilm produces great gear, but not all of their devices are available in Europe. I tried to order directly in the US, but they refused to process and ship my order, for reasons I don't understand.

[@OH8STN]

One question first, Which solar panel are you looking for?

[@MrVertigo1971]

@@OH8STN Something that is rugged, affordable doesn't add too much weight to my portable gear, and supports the BAT500, even in poor (sunlight) conditions. Sounds like a PowerFilm, right? 🤣

[@OH8STN]

Send me an email to "surplus at my callsign dot org" I have a few demo PowerFilm panels left. It's always nice to get them out to the community. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@chrissewell1608]

Well... If someone is shooting up your solar panel. Loosing power is the least of your problems! I hope you packed a firearm in your backpack. Because some Sh!+ just hit the Panel... ahhhh Fan!

[@OH8STN]

Indeed. Bullet holes are a great test. Also branches or other flying debris. If the panel does take damage, it's nice to know it'll still work. 👍 Check out this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJzbYmtpbLB9mtU

[@chrissewell1608]

@@OH8STN Wow. That was impressive results too! I wonder how well the hard wall panels, hold up to puncture / bullet holes?

[@OH8STN]

Thanks. The rigid panels don't hold up at all. I shot my Goal Zero nomad folding panel. It shut down on the first shot :/

[@regularguy519]

In this mad world, scopes probably require special "permission" at his qth... Awesome iron sights shooting 😀

[@OH8STN]

I am using a scope, but only because we were already at the rifle range zeroing my new day/night IR scope. I also had to make sure not to hit the charging cables behind these solar panel 👍🤣

[@regularguy519]

​@@OH8STNHooyah!

[@JohnDoe-zg6fn]

Wow. I have not been getting any of your videos in my feed. I am subscribed with notifications and everything on for your channel and I am behind like 2 months on your videos.

[@OH8STN]

Sadly, KZbin punishes channels if they don't upload regularly.

[@JohnDoe-zg6fn]

@@OH8STN well, I will have to keep an extra eye out for you. Been very busy this summer with, we'll, enjoying summer lol. Anyway, thanks for all you do sir, please keep up the amazing work you do, we all very much appreciate it.

[@OH8STN]

@JohnDoe-zg6fn Thanks for the kindness. I've been on my summer holiday for the last month, today is the first day back. Starting up on the videos again👍

[@W4BTK]

Out of the box thinking. 73 Julian

[@OH8STN]

Thank you 🙏 73 Julian oh8stn

[@gravijta936]

You gunna skin it, clean it, cook it and eat it now?

[@OH8STN]

But it's not dead yet 😉

[@John_Henry83]

How much power did it lose after the shots?

[@OH8STN]

Current went from ~750ma, down to ~480ma. Voltage remained unchanged. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@billjames3148]

I have never seen a video like this. Hit it out of the park ! Answered some questions I had. That IS a real world example .

[@OH8STN]

Thank you 🙏👍

[@chrissewell1608]

Probably because no one is crazy enough to shoot their new, expiensive solar panel!? Just Julian....😅

[@OH8STN]

I did reach out to @powerfilmsolarenergy asking for some samples for testing. I told them what I planned to do with them, and they sent them anyway. That says bundles about PowerFilm. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@anymouse6202]

Thanks for the video!

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome 🙏 73 Julian oh8stn

[@ivladjoll7410]

What was your current loss?

[@OH8STN]

~0.47 amps after the test. I published the results on the episode notes just now. oh8stn.org/blog/2023/08/01/powerfilm-solar-panel-vs-hunting-rifle/

[@AE5X]

Next up on the range: your TX500 😂

[@OH8STN]

If they don't add that internal audio interface in some future revision, It may very well be next up 🤣👍

[@ivan.pozdnyakov]

Julian, this is too much for HAM radio channel) Still probably the radio operator will not withstand such holes) he will be nearby)

[@OH8STN]

Showing how equipment survives damage is never "too much". In fact, I wish we would see more channels doing real tests and reviews of the equipment we use. How else will we know the difference between one product claim versus marketing nonsense?

[@hugothales4902]

Disappointing that it didn't stop the bullet 😢

[@Swamp-Fox]

Very interesting test! The results speak for themselves. Impressive how the PowerFilm panels maintained performance and held up as well as they did. I would like to hear more details about your air rifle setup. I assume it is a PCP shooting .25 cal slugs. Very cool! Have you every tested a DIY Solar For U Ra Buck-Boost MPPT or Apollo solar charge controller? I have the Apollo. Works great, RF quiet, and produced by an amateur radio operator who is an electrical engineer.

[@OH8STN]

The air rifle is an FX Maverick Sniper in 25 cal. It's pushing 44gr slugs at 1080 fps. Dual regs are set for 180/150 bar. It's got a 500cc carbon fiber tank. I installed a heavier Tungsten hammer, to keep the valve open just a bit longer. Scope is a Sightmark Wraith 4K Max day/night IR Scope. The rifle is sitting on a Harris bipod. 👍

[@yartar-pq9yp]

Buck shot next pls 😂

[@OH8STN]

🤔 Yes 👍

[@spinner7801]

I bought multiple rollable and foldable panels because of the very first videos you did about Powerfilm. How well has the fabric been holding up for those very same panels you featured years ago?

[@OH8STN]

The 120 watt canvas has some minor fraying. I suspect this was caused by me not drying the fabric after use. Other than tha,t all of them have handled field use very well. The 20-watt from the first video, still looks brand new.

[@spinner7801]

@@OH8STN Thank you so much for your response!

[@MrAlanmcd]

So when the Zombies are armed, we will still have a chance...

[@OH8STN]

Although there have been reports of "Smart Zombies" around major population centers, these may not be the biggest problem. Tree branches or other falling debris can puncture our panels just as easily as a well-armed Zombie. 👍🤣

[@survivalcomms]

They can endure a lot. The big panel I have was one that was assembled by a person who marketed his in much the same fashion many years ago. Thanks for sharing !

[@chrissewell1608]

I take it, you don't have your AR-15 over there in Europe? But those new air rifles, do a great job too!

[@OH8STN]

Indeed, though a Finnish RK would be a better choice in this part of the world. Sadly, if one wants to avoid getting onto a "list", some compromises should be made. Nevermind the YT truth commission which frowns upon 2Alpha-minded content.

[@chrissewell1608]

@@OH8STN True! They are going after the gun culture groups, gun industry news, and channels, in a brain washing, saving the world, vengence sort of way!

[@OH8STN]

sad but true.

[@boboo1054]

Julian, You made my day 😅😊

[@OH8STN]

and you made mine. Comments like this are fuel for the fire. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@sk8crk]

FX Airgun?

[@OH8STN]

kzbin.info2MvDlPzLdRk?feature=shared

[@wolfholler9939]

An impressive demonstration of the quality of Powerfilm panels. I believe the lowcost products from CN would die after the first shot.

[@OH8STN]

Indeed! The portable CN panels might be OK for cheap fun but I wonder. After buying the same panel a few times, the cheap price may loose its appeal. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@Stealthmodeactivated-h8w]

I see you just repeated the powerfilm bullet test it must be nice to be given things just to destroy them

[@ON3RVH]

Now if only they were CE complaint again... But since they're not (anymore?) they won't send them to Europe or have any other European reseller anymore.. Apparently Powerfilm has no plans to make them CE complaint anymore, unless they've changed their minds now but that was the info I got a few months ago from Powerfilm themselves

[@OH8STN]

Your comment is a "half truth". PowerFilm Solar panels are CE compliant, and have European distributors. Sadly, the Lightsaver Max is not CE compliant, nor does it meet battery certification standards for shipping li-ion batteries on anything other than ground transportation. Here's a good article to read. oh8stn.org/blog/2023/08/01/powerfilm-solar-panel-vs-hunting-rifle/

[@ON3RVH]

@@OH8STN aha that is more information than what Solarfilm told me a few months ago. Thanks for the clarification!

[@OH8STN]

Yup the context is always important. I figured they just answered the question you asked 👍

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@@ON3RVH thanks for your assistance, Julian. Apologies for the confusion!

[@OH8STN]

no apologies required brother. We are all learning :)