Tilt Angle
The tilt angle is defined as the angle of inclination of a solar collector measured from the
horizontal. The reason for tilt angle is because of the suns= elevation will vary over a range
of 47
O
from winter solstice to summer solstice
(1)
.
For the greatest annual energy production, the tilt angle should equal the latitude at the
location of deployment. For best energy production, the wintertime the angle should be the
latitude plus 15
O
. The maximum summertime production is obtained at latitude minus 15
O
.
The tilt angle and one method of setting is shown in Figure N3.
It may also be set with a user supplied protractor/bubble level.
Wiring Connections
On the back of the solar panel is a rectangular box from which two cables exit as shown if
Figure N4. The cable with 5/16 inch ring terminals is intended to connect to the external
battery described in section N 2. The white wire is positive (+). The black wire is negative
(-) and the green wire, with the tinned end is ground. A 12-inch ground spike and terminal is
provided.
The other wire emanating from the box is equipped with a CPC connector. This wire is
installed on the PQ100 panel normally used for the power supply cable. This wire is
installed in place of the power supply cable when running on solar power.
Overall Operation and Troubleshooting
Prior to deploying a PQ100 with solar panel, it is prudent to ensure that the internal battery is
fully charged. This is accomplished by plugging the PQ100=s power supply into a source of
line current for 16 hours. Full internal battery charge will be indicated on the main menu
display as 99% or charged when the battery is full charged and the power supply is
disconnected.
The external solar panel battery may be initially charged from any automotive battery
charger. Alternatively, the PQ100 may simply set in a sunny location or the actual field
sampling site and not run for 10 days. The solar panel will fully charge both batteries.
Troubleshooting
Battery is not maintaining at least 50% charge B caused by inclement weather or excessive
current drain. Excessive current drain is caused by an excessively dirty filter or a worn out
pump. After installing a new filter, if problem persists, check for worn pump valves or
diaphragms.
If either battery is in excess of two years old B replace.
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