Renogy 200w Solar Suitcase $500, DIY 200w $200

[@thomascronquist1604]

The BEST video on constructing folding panels. Thank you..

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I appreciate that, thanks for watching.

[@gabrielglouw3589]

I very nearly pulled the trigger on ordering expensive aluminum ground support for my hand truck solar generator. So glad I watched this video first.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I have been using this 24/7 for 3 1/2 years. Still good as new

[@gabrielglouw3589]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated I don’t even need it 24/7. I’m in Baton Rouge and the solar generator is just going to be a backup for my gas generator during hurricane season when I lose power. I learned the hard way to conserve gas, lol. I’m basically going to run the fridge and freezer with it during the day when I’m at work and run the gas generator for larger things like window AC at night.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@gabrielglouw3589 hey neighbor. Prairieville here

[@gabrielglouw3589]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated I’m just across the Bayou Manchac bridge on Old Jefferson. I’ve probably seen you at the Winn Dixie. Lol.

[@ima4tubing]

You have the only suitcase video i have seen that shows the label on the panel. Thank you. Not required for understanding hookup but useful when not just buying a complete "kit".

[@missiletm]

That’s awesome! I wanted a 200 watt portable kit but the cost is so much more than a hard mount 200w kit. I’m going to build the same thing. Thanks for making this video!

[@Mr1MOA]

I was able to duplicate your setup for myself, 2 100 watt panels with the PVC pipe, works great. Thanks for sharing, very practical and doable with minimal amount of tools and time.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Glad it helped. Thanks for watching

[@mclaine33]

I was about to blow $330 on the Renogy folding solar kit but holy cow this setup is way simpler and pretty easy to make! I’m gonna follow this advice. Thank you!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I use mine nearly every day

[@royvoorberg7165]

Thank you very much, The stands are brilliant, and the latches are fabulous. Cheers

[@reynaldotorres4349]

Nice stand, easy and cheap

[@Jim-re3sr]

Great video. Simple and effective. And the best part is that I have lots of spare pvc in the barn

[@kathymintexas1556]

Great idea to use spacer and clamps. We put together our solar suitcase today using this very method--thank you!!!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

you are welcome. Thanks for watching

[@KipMcMillan-d8q]

Received my panel today. Jumped right on it following your video. Tomorrow I'll get some 1/2 rubber bushings to keep the T's from sliding around. Everything folds right back up and with the Styrofoam corners and side pieces it fits right back into the box. Fits perfectly in the basement of my 5ver. Thanks for the nice tip.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thanks. Glad that was helpful

[@fogster31]

after watching this video at the weekend , i went straight out for some piping. £10.00 job done . well happy !!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

glad it helped. Thanks for watching

[@davidbishop534]

Great Job Mike! 5 Stars***** for that job.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thank you. Still going strong 24/7, for almost 3 years now

[@deltaomegaTraveler]

Great ideas Mike. Thanks for thinking this out and presenting it in such detail. I never thought about using PVC to mount solar panels but now I have. Thanks again.

[@Greguk444]

Great idea. Many thanks. I will use this method on my new solar panels and it’s going to save me a lot of money

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

It has served me well

[@michaeldoherty2289]

Really nice. Don't have any comments on how to do it better. Thanks for sharing.

[@caryanderson7212]

The K.I.S.S. principle lives on!! Simple and effective. What's not to like!? Thank you for sharing this with us! Liked and subscribed.

[@david-ky7rt]

Great job Mike 👍

[@Dan-yn7ke]

Nice video, easy to follow and good design. Thanks for taking the time and posting the video.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Sitting right now, in the 5er with a couple of those keeping me juiced. But lots of clouds today

[@smarties2k]

Genius! I like it.

[@edyoung6573]

Freaking awesome!!!! thank you so much for making this video!!!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

thanks, they have served me well for 3 years. At least one is out 24/7/365

[@naturallawprinciples]

Brilliant. Nice one for sharing. In the place of buffers/spacers one could use magnets of an appropriate strength that hold it closed & open with little effort.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

not a bad idea.

[@garyCauser]

excellent. I'm stealing this idea

[@daveandsonyainmichigan]

Nice setup!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thanks. It has served me well for quite a long time now

[@bubbacooter]

I love the folding to store and carry. I've been gathering the materials for my build this fall. Yes, I'm building just like yours ( even the corn hole carry case ). I'll need to stay at William Brice, Go Cocks!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Works great for me.

[@louiswen3980]

Wonderful idea! Smart.

[@phollow174]

You guys use all those cool tools and apps! I just aim toward the sun and hope for the best😃😃😃

[@LiquidTurbo]

Use a food can on the surface of the panel. optimum angle is no shadow casted

[@DLWhiteMusic]

Pretty awesome. Great explanation. Thanks.

[@pedroamador0618]

Brilliant! Love your KZbin channel!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

thank you

[@kenmoist]

Nicely done, like the simple, cheap design

[@Diva9000x]

Dude!! That is totally AWESOME!! I was trying to figure out a way to use rigid panels on my deck & easily slide on top of the flat roof of my garage. Your setup solves it. My neighbors are gonna say "what is she doing now?" 🤷🏽‍♀️😂 Love the purple tie. Geaux Tigers!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Geaux Tighas!

[@johnbosarge407]

That was a cool video. I have been looking for something just like that. Thanks.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

glad you enjoyed. The set up has served me well everyday for 2 1/2 years now

[@amygrooters5043]

Awesome build but the best part is the paracord - Geaux Tigers!!!

[@epaimar]

Fantastic !. Spain - UE

[@bobcarson-ql6xk]

PVC to mount solar panels---GREAT I WILL MAKE THANK YOU

[@paulthelefty]

Outstsnding design and functional build! Bravo!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

thanks!

[@arlenem9697]

Thanks for the setup. I've been considering using PVC for (2-100w) solar panel brackets on my shed roof, which is only 7 feet high. The only issue is whether the PVC will warp over time in the constant sun.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Done right, the PVC stays in the shade of the panel 🤔

[@Prinnypiepie]

We also just ordered a padded Cornhole carrying case to put our DIY suitcase solar panels in.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

HECK TO THE YES! I've been racking my brain for a case to repurpose. Cornhole did not come to mind. Do you have a link?

[@Prinnypiepie]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated Sure do. Its gonna be a bit girthy but we'll figure it out. Here ya go: www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08P45VMYL?ref=ppx_pt2_mob_b_prod_image

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@Prinnypiepie I've been down the search rabbit hole since I saw your post. There is a "tailgate size" cornhole board case that is 36". I think I am going to order one of those. Fit will be much closer. Hopefully not too short

[@Prinnypiepie]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated Ah yes, for yours that will hopefully fit better. We actually have two Rich 100w solar panels 45.5 x 20.5 x 1.4, but used your vid for reference when making them into a suitcase pair. I spent all day trying to figure out a case, or how to make some sort of padded cover for them myself and then I stumbled upon the corn hole case covers and was elated! Finally, something I could work with. We haul ours behind our spare tire in the back of our pleasureway van, the corn hole logo will hopefully help deter theives too.

[@Prinnypiepie]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated I wish I could send you a picture, we utilized the case this trip and it looks great! I also cut the box the panel came in and set the cardboard halves into the sides of the corn hole bag for extra protection. Another cool perk, is it says "Cornhole" on the outside of the bag so our panels are incognito.

[@mikestone9129]

Great solar build. Simple and cost savings. Thanks

[@rdefender2685]

Great video I went 1/2 for the entire stand the 2 T’s on top required cutting the top pipe into 3 pieces.

[@tedbland403]

I made the exact same frame, but, you need to anchor the bottom cross piece with an anchor. I didn’t and the wind blew them over.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I agree. Depending on soil, I use the anchors in the video, or the nail like tent stakes

[@nesbittjohn]

Very, very impressive design! Thank you for sharing.

[@hardtruth2039]

Nice job.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

thanks 2 1/2 years later still going strong. I just literally walked back inside after packing those up to head out for a last beach trip. Check out the video for the carry bag I found for the suitcase if you haven't already. Pretty cheap and tuff too

[@hummer4x4guy]

Great video! Thanks for a well made setup and for keeping on point with your build. I will be copying this. I like it a lot better than the aluminum frames.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

the PVC is light, functional , and very easy to build

[@hermanlighthall3972]

Thanks for showing us how to create a weather proof solar stand.- very informative!

[@DragonPilot]

OK...I bought everything to your specs here. My panels are 41x21 and that makes them a little heavier. Also, the space between the edge flanges and panel is 1". I'm thinking the 1/2" and 3/4" tubes are not going to be stiff enough as those tubes are going to be cut just a bit longer. I'm going to try to increase everything by at least 1/4". Your concept is solid, though!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Sounds like a good plan for the larger panels

[@whtcuda]

Plan for now to reinforce the box it came in , ( 1 , 100 watt panel , with single panel it will FIT BACK in box to transport ! Looking forward to this little project , thanks for the info …👍🏻👍🏻 gunna try this ! !!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Look on my channel for a transport case idea

[@RVFreeDa]

Perfect stand thanks!

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I am glad you like it. The stand has worked really well for me

[@christophebaboulin4869]

Very clear video... Great and nice job... I will copy your system for my futur projet... 👌👌👌👌

[@patdig01]

Fantastic Build

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thanks

[@eridulife]

Sweet. I am going to do something similar. Thank you for sharing it :)

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

thanks. They have worked well for me for years now

[@ralphlowery4412]

Excellent job!! I have been looking for this video and you have done a great job! Thank you

[@serialtravelers-wb5zb]

Bonjour merci pour votre vidéo c'est une très bonne idée j'adore la conception au moin sa sera un panneau solaire pliable IP67 et beaucoup moins cher de ce qu'il vende en panneaux solaires pliable souple qui ne vont pas sous la pluie cordialement

[@omarshabazz1620]

Thanks, even I could handle this, appreciate your time and patience, have a wonderful father's day 😉, and I'll be saving some money 💵..

[@DAMotorsports]

Great job 👏

[@michaeldoherty2289]

HQST panels are excellent and perhaps 20% cheaper than Renogy for the same quality. A great buy in my opinion.

[@jackh9934]

I've been looking around for making a stand and yours is the best one I've seen very good job on my way to Lowes in the morning.Thanks

[@galecooney2337]

AWESOME job

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thanks

[@DIYwithBatteries]

You are freaking Genius Sir using the PVC is a smart idea 😄👍

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thanks! It works better than I expected

[@skipwilliam5639]

Looks great but I would put a strap on the bottom bar that you pull out so the panel doesn't fall over onto the ground

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Two years of 24/7 use, and the panels have never fallen over. Not even once. Tent stakes. Tent stakes like in the video (and some others depending on soil conditions) are the key. They are not limited by a strap length. In my latitudes I go from flat to 60° and everything in between

[@skipwilliam5639]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated ok Im just seasonal so Whatever works I guess

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@skipwilliam5639 yep, stakes even work for seasonal campers. The best part of using stakes are, you are not restricted to strap length for tilt angle. You have an infinite range. You can use the app that I use in the video, to set your angle specific to your latitude, and the day of the year.

[@skipwilliam5639]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated . That is true.

[@thunt885]

Could not find the watt hour meter you used we get to see it only a few seconds Thanks for excellent video and will be building this soon

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I used the app from the solar charge controller and then the other meter is a wireless display I use for my kayak. (testing on kayak batteries). My exact listing is gone. But this should be the same chinese meter www.ebay.com/itm/123201673413?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D1110013%26algo%3DHOMESPLICE.SIMRXI%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20211130130301%26meid%3D7c898ff6171c42148be44bb86b7f6230%26pid%3D101468%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D12%26sd%3D132136452272%26itm%3D123201673413%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D0%26pg%3D3650466%26algv%3DSimRWIWebRoundRobinBlenderWithPromotedSeeds%26brand%3DUnbranded&_trksid=p3650466.c101468.m3476&amdata=cksum%3A1232016734137c898ff6171c42148be44bb86b7f6230%7Cenc%3AAQAHAAABEClBV0HULvX%252FsR2ujldRbKqiPXc4M1uZ70AZlIHqTUvmLc1ScMSkFDCdsawaOQO3kJOq645MekT2kD9MeECJIxYot45RvX5xJsOGhV3SKeREHI8XHaCVwT7yXtb6eYefdTEuLRy2K6FDOoa4EDQ7FYlN0l0bIYm6Pc%252FAOp%252F1r5gzcTzCZw7tcqIcwdIl6iw2VJXuWGjPTIdLyT1%252BDAPGWPx0c0tWAwXFbCLR5mKtCwwJlkDtLMgaQup9KfMn%252FKZ7l7Q5y9GOE9HAmaoZVKijDCwLomU%252BtK2XBQI8NyOWLpFQuYZxaTlKBGODWfuwamtFX2QM0vMW6ifibn%252Bpbe8H3rw3L7onmqwPAGpwtvg2%252FRgA%7Campid%3APL_CLK%7Cclp%3A3650466

[@AbuSous2000PR]

vary helpful ...great idea

[@markkepley4131]

Thanks for a very detailed video. I bought 5 lightly used 100 watt panels yesterday and built stands for four of them today. I'm a little leery about drilling the holes for the hinges. Do you remember the bit size used? The hinge you linked from Lowes says to drill a 5/16 hole but that seems a little large. Don't want to hit the glass on the panel. Super job and thanks for sharing your build.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

The holes are drilled into the side of the frame. No problem with the glass

[@georgephilips3528]

What Inclinometer App is that? The ones I see on the Play Store don't look like that.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

It is called Optimal Tilt

[@kvdme]

I'm building one like this along with my two on top. That way I have flexibility.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

The suitcase is great for when the rig is in the shade, or you just need more charging. Thanks for watching

[@DragonPilot]

Too cool for school! Very nice cheap and easy solution for support legs! My panels are 41" long. What would you say the length of my 3/4" legs should be?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Thanks. I just made somewhat of an educated guess at 2/3rds my panel. That has worked very well for me. I would think the same ratio should work at any size

[@housesOTR]

I love PVC. I found some Ts that had the top part cut out so you could snap then onto a crossbar.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I've used those in another project.

[@nklind]

Thanks. I just got some Renogy panels with this very idea in mind. I probably won't save very much in the long run after all is said and done. But it looked like a fun project. I think I'm going to use paracord with knots in it for the angle adjustments.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I had that thought too, but I haven't tried yet. A truckers hitch would probably be perfect for easy adjustment

[@DragonPilot]

It appears you used flathead bolts and nuts to secure the hinges. Do you recall the gauge of the bolts and nuts? Are the nuts the self-locking variety?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

The nuts are the nylon locking type. I do not remember the size. I have a link for the hinges I used in the description. But I bought the hinges in the store. While I was there, I just matched a bolt that fit in the hinge holes. Simple, and you know it will work when you get home. Then I used the drill bit that fit the hole and matched the bolt

[@dave633]

One of the best explained most useful tutorial videos I have seen. Well done, I am now going to try to replicate this! Any suggestions on what panels you would choose now, two years on... or would you still go with the originals?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

thanks! I appreciate that. Those panels have been used everyday for 2 1/2 years. Zero issues. I bought another set. So I would definitely buy them again

[@Mpactpics]

Awesome! 👍♥️

[@heatherryan9820]

So, just had a thought. What about, for the bottom? I was just thinking that if you had, say 2 One- inch stands on the bottom, not only would you get a fraction more stubborn because it would be out of the grass, but I would think that it wouldn't get as dirty also. IDK, I don't have any solar panels, but I'm looking into getting a couple for traveling, so maybe I'm over thinking it a little bit. What do y'all think?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I have never had an issue that needed bottom risers. But if you did, add some

[@flpirate4565]

Thanks,that was awesome information. I'm going to do this project in a few days. A great help. Just wondering,can this system be set up as parallel to my Ecoflow river Pro? Again thank you.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Just have to check the charge input of rating of your Eco. You can set the panels for series or parallel connections

[@kentthomas7122]

Great job and thank you for all the information. I just finished my last night. Love it. I do have a 1 suggestion. I am going to drill 2 holes thru the 3/4" tee and into the 1/2" pipe so I can add pins to hold the panel at a 30 degree angle and another hole to hold it a 45 degree angle.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

those angles would only be good for me (for most folks) for a 2 short periods a year. look at 12.16 where I talk about the optimal tilt app

[@kentthomas7122]

That did not work for me. I ended up putting a hole on the bottom horizontal pvc section and put a tent stake thru it to hold it in position

[@ImASurvivorNThriver]

Good stuff! Thanks for sharing.

[@Curt100]

Good job Mike! I am now inspired to do this! Thanks man!

[@oldcountry3474]

I could't help but notic that the PVC Tee you used for a hinge is putting pressure on the back of the solar cells. This could be a problem, as the back is not protected like the front is with tempered glass. There is a risk of damage to the cells.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I've noticed... after lugging all over, and being in use 24/7 for over 2 years, they still work as good as the day that I built them 🤔😁

[@jakeviolet2195]

The weight of the panel does not appear to be resting solely on the tees. It is distributed to the frame by the crossbar which the tees are attached to. PVC does flex, but I doubt it would flex enough, over that short of a span, to push the tees into the back of the panel so hard that it would damage it.

[@capodad2u]

Great job you basically built exactly what i imagined. I've been trying to decide what dimensions to go with for ease of transportation and set up basically comes down to 40" x 20" or I've found 28" x 30" (100 watt). The weight seems to me to be a problem (30lbs) getting them in and out of the RV so I'm considering having the wiring in the RV and plugging in the panels once setup, also in order to minimize weight and ease of handling i realize they don't have to be joined together like Siamese twins ? So I'm considering that route. I might even secure them safely to the rear ladder for transporting rather than digging them out from under the bed! Also when priced out renogy has a 300watt complete kit with everything needed for $259 which includes all cables panel,30ft + battery,16ft 4xY connectors and adventure controller + Bluetooth. So i might just do that and make it portable? Also will add a chain or cable lock to the panels. But yeah i like the idea of portable over fixed.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

For a drastic reduction in weight, look for some of my newer videos with the flexible panel suitcase. MUCH easier to move around

[@MRMRS2wheeler]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated can you provide a link to that video, I am interested in that builld but can't seem to find it. Loving your channel btw. Some great videos.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@MRMRS2wheeler here you go. Thanks for watching kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXqsYX13a7KAeaM

[@douglaswindsor120]

In looking at it it looks like the tee's are put pressure on the panel

[@Eric-R]

If you wanted to hinge in the opposite direction, would the 3/4 PVC parts make it too thick to close? I was thinking of using your design but put the sturdy tempered glass outward facing, rather than the delicate plastic backer.

[@jackh9934]

Hi, i made the stand just like yours and after about 13 months the PVC pipe rubbed holes on the back side of the panels an burned thru to the font.have you had this problem???

[@DragonPilot]

Ouch! Would some sort of protective backing between the pipe and panel solve that issue?

[@dirtyaznstyle4156]

Heat pvc in boiling water, it’s faster and doesn’t burn the pieces. Also heats them uniformly

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I tried boiling water in another project. I never got a flat completely solid piece like I got for the latches. I wouldn't call the latches burned either

[@AlexandraNevermind]

Brilliant!

[@j_Behrchen]

mega Nice👍👍

[@johnc5937]

Nicely done. Be aware, you may void your warranty by drilling into the frame of some solar panels.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I would hope not. Most companies that sell a product that requires DIY installation, allow for DIY changes. As long as what you do, is not the reason for the product failure/issue, then they honor the warrantee. I wouldn't think holes in the frame, that have no bearing on the functionality or output or the panel would cause any form of denial. Just make sure you drill straight. But if so, they come from Amazon. You can return almost anything, and.... they are only $80 if you did have to buy another.

[@johnc5937]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated I totally agree. Read the warning label on the back of your panels. I have read a warning by a manufacturer not to “add” any holes to the frame, wish I could remember who that was.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@johnc5937 the only thing on my panels are the specs and... the don't get shocked warning for dummies

[@johnc5937]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated I was looking at the label on Amazon for these solar panels with the infamous “Only qualified personal” part.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@johnc5937 I just reread the listing. I do not see such a warning. Its not rocket surgery

[@melnelson688]

never could find the app optimal tilt did they change it?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I am on android. I just checked goggle play. It's still there

[@melbournesubtropicfruits9474]

As the glass is most of the wight have you considered taking the glass out and packing that space with corflute? since its not permanently outside you really dont need it and you'll get more amps also?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

One of my suitcases are permanently outside. I have not heard of corflute???

[@melbournesubtropicfruits9474]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated Corrflute is that plastic sheet with holes for insulating a hot house wall - i didnt use as no glass on the 380 watt panel - its siliconed onto the rails - it put out 7.1 amps in yesterdays 70deg near winter sun and a 10 meter lead

[@bobcarson-ql6xk]

GOOD TO KNOW THANK YOU SOLAR STANS

[@RichardNisley]

Great video; thank you. What are the range of solar panel angles that you can achieve with your DIY stand?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

for my area, from flat on the ground in the summer to about 55 degrees in the winter

[@DormantIdeasNIQ]

a million ways to do this... on your concoction... add clamps on the stands and corners of the panels so that you can drive tent stakes to hold these things steady in wind.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Ive got something better than tent stakes. I've got helical dog tie up screws

[@Acheron2010]

I've had landscaping irrigation PVC go brittle in the sunlight. Should you use the dark grey PVC for this application?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

You are right, the white PVC doesn't have any UV protection. So for other outdoor projects in the sun, I would definitely recommend the grey. But on the back of the solar panels, the PVC is literally always in the shade. It will probably take decades to degrade it. And by that time there will probably be mobetta solar panels to build a new frame :)

[@BsrlinMAZ]

Simple rattle-can spray paint to give the PVC uv protection -- spray it before assembly.

[@frankm2752]

200 watt portable solar panels renogy today is $235. Vevor $175. Just saying... nice video if you can get real cheap used panel The solar angle app looks good to have. I've only seen various plastic or wood or beer can ideas.

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I agree. You can buy unknownchinesium even cheaper if you don't care about quality

[@jokerrhe]

How did the amps jump to 12 from the controller to the battery if they're in series? The reduction in voltage makes sense as the battery is most likely 12v

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

watts = amps x volts. Watts doesn't change. So when the controller brings volts down to match the battery, amps go up. Thats why is is good to have the controller close to the battery. High volts/low amps travel the longer wires from the panels (20ft in my case) with less resistance. The lower volts/high amps create more resistance, but only have to go a short way from the controller to the battery (less than a foot in my case)

[@jokerrhe]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated that makes sense. However i never heard of a controller jumping the amps up when the incoming amps are lower. Thx

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

@@jokerrhe have you ever used a SCC?. There is no other way for it to work. Panels start in the 20ish volt range and go way up from there. A controller has to reduce voltage, and the byproduct is always amperage. That's Watts law, and amps is what charge the batt. So that's a beautiful thing

[@jokerrhe]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated I'm building my first custom kit actually. I was wondering about that. I thought I had to get lower voltage panels so I wouldn't be losing out on watts to be honest. So I'm gonna use my 18v panels and the controller will balance out/raise the amps to match?

[@jokerrhe]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated if it's amps that you want why don't you run them in parallel so the amps are higher to begin with?

[@alwaysmoody800]

Did I miss when you said mono or poly panels ? Great video .

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

I'm not sure if I mentioned in the video myself, but they are mono panels

[@alwaysmoody800]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated Thank you

[@YourOutdoorAdventures]

Awesome!!

[@unknownstuntman4166]

Hi could you put a link to the apps please I don’t think you can get them in England

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

this is the Optimal tilt app play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.exigo.optimaltilt

[@unknownstuntman4166]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated Cheers pal for this I’ve just realised it’s for Android that’s why I couldn’t find it for iPhone I will see if I can get a alternate app

[@mikailthelesser3030]

Mike, Thanx for the great directions and the info on orientation/angles of the array. I feel comfortable that I can break into solar for my small casita travel trailer trips more economically now. Question on voltage controller though...If I adapt 200W panels as you did, what voltage controller would be best for my small 30A RV (single AGM Deep cycle)??? PWM or MPPT? What Voltage/Amp ?? Thanks

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

MPPT is more efficient. The one I used in the video is linked in the description. Victron is pricey, but the best. And you can see what is going on in the app. If you buy more Victron equipment, they all talk to each other

[@thelonehellyranger01]

Awesome 👏

[@Ambiguity1]

Can you tell us the length you cut your PVC pipe? I am starting out traveling in a step van and will be using this setup to charge my batteries

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

Every panel brand is going to be a different size. And even the same brand bought at different times can very in size. So you will have to measure. My panels are approximately 3ft x 2ft. I measured down 1ft (1/3rd) panel size for the cross bar placement. That works well. Then just measure everything else from that point

[@Ambiguity1]

@@MikeJordanUnCamplicated Yeah, I have ordered the same pannels as you have. They are a little cheaper on the HQST website, might take a little longer to get to you but save a little money. I got the two panels for 155.00 and free shipping. Thanks and I will be passing this along on my channel later as I make the stands for my solar panels. Thanks for the info!

[@elvinbowler1264]

Thanks a lot, Mike. I've been pricing a lot of commercial folding panels and they are expensive. There are great prices on panels like you have used here. I'm looking at using 200-watt panels to charge my Bluetti AC200 Max more quickly. Any thoughts on that idea?

[@MikeJordanUnCamplicated]

make sure the bluetti charge specs will handle the panels and they will be a lot better than anything that you could buy for the same money