Do you have a question about the KT SOLAR KT70727 and is the answer not in the manual?
Highlights the panel's compact size and powerful output due to monocrystalline solar cells.
Details the panel's dimensions when folded and unfolded, emphasizing ease of transportation and storage.
Describes the included PWM solar charge controller and its display features for monitoring.
This document describes the KT Solar 120W 12V Solar Mat with 10A 12V Solar Charge Controller, Model No. KT70727, a portable and innovative solar charging solution designed for various outdoor and automotive applications.
The KT Solar Mat is engineered to convert sunlight into electrical energy, primarily for charging 12V batteries. It serves as a reliable power source for a wide range of 12V devices commonly used in camping, marine, 4x4, and caravan settings, such as camping fridges, lighting, and air compressors. The integrated 10A 12V PWM solar charge controller manages the charging process, ensuring efficient and safe power delivery to the battery while protecting against overcharge, over-discharge, and other potential electrical issues. The system is designed for ease of use, allowing users to quickly set up and begin charging their batteries from solar energy.
The solar mat boasts several features that enhance its usability and versatility:
Compact and Powerful Design: The mat incorporates six monocrystalline solar cells, known for their efficiency in converting sunlight into power. These cells are cast from silicone, allowing for a smaller footprint while still delivering a substantial power output of 120 watts. This compact design makes it suitable for environments where space might be limited.
Lightweight and Foldable for Portability: One of its key advantages is its lightweight and foldable design. When folded, the mat reduces to a convenient size of 395mm (L) x 360mm (W) x 80mm (D), making it highly portable and easy to transport. When unfolded, it expands to 2285mm (L) x 360mm (W) x 5mm (D), providing a larger surface area for solar collection. The total weight of the unit is 5.1 kg, further contributing to its portability.
Integrated 10 Amp 12V PWM Solar Controller: The included solar charge controller is a crucial component, offering intelligent management of the charging process. It automatically recognizes 12V system voltages and employs an upgraded 3-stage PWM charging algorithm. This algorithm includes an equalizing charge feature that periodically or when over-discharged, helps prevent non-equalization and sulfation, thereby extending the battery's service life. The controller also features temperature compensation, automatically adjusting charging parameters for optimal performance.
Informative LCD Display: The solar charge controller is equipped with a dot matrix graphic LCD screen and a user-friendly human-machine interface with a key. This display cycles through various information in 3-second intervals, showing battery voltage, battery capacity percentage, ambient temperature, and load mode. This allows users to monitor the system's status at a glance.
USB Input for Device Charging: A single USB input is provided on the controller, enabling direct charging of USB-powered devices, adding to its utility in remote settings.
Comprehensive Lead and Accessory Kit: The mat comes with all necessary leads and accessories stored in a dedicated compartment. This includes a 550mm lead with a heavy-duty connector to positive and negative battery clamps for direct battery connection, and a 4.8M 50A 12V heavy-duty connector extension lead, offering flexibility in positioning the solar mat relative to the battery.
Flexible Positioning Options: The design allows for versatile placement. It can be laid flat across vehicle windscreens, on other flat surfaces, or rooftops. Additionally, it can be hung or mounted using its durable eyelets. For optimal performance, it is recommended to tilt the panels to directly face the sun, ideally in a northern orientation, to maximize solar exposure throughout the day.
Wide Range of Load Working Modes: The controller supports various load working modes, facilitating its application to different types of loads. These modes include pure light control, light control with time control (1 to 14 hours), manual mode, debugging mode, and normal on mode. The manual mode (default) allows users to switch the load on or off via a key, regardless of day or night.
Soft Start for Loads: The load start feature is a soft start, meaning the load icon on the LCD screen will be delayed after the load is switched on, ensuring a smooth initiation of power delivery.
To ensure longevity and optimal performance, the KT Solar Mat incorporates several maintenance and safety considerations:
Periodic Electrical and Mechanical Inspection: Users are advised to periodically inspect all electrical and mechanical connections to ensure they are tight and free from corrosion. This proactive check helps maintain system integrity and performance.
Easy Cleaning: The surface of the solar panels can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth, and mild detergent can be used if necessary. Regular cleaning prevents dirt or residue buildup, which could otherwise affect performance.
Proper Storage: When not in use, the solar mat should always be folded away for storage. It is crucial to store it in a dry place, especially at night during camping, to protect the canvas material and solar cells. Avoid packing heavy items on top of the mat during storage to prevent damage.
Protection Against Environmental Factors: The solar mat is designed to be durable, but certain precautions are recommended. It should not be exposed to inclement weather or excess moisture for extended periods. If the mat becomes completely saturated with water, it should be hung up to dry in a convenient position and not re-used until thoroughly dry.
Controller Protection Features: The solar charge controller includes robust protection mechanisms:
Cable Management and Sizing: It is important to choose cables with sufficient capacity for connections to prevent excessive power loss, which could lead to misjudgment by the controller.
Professional Repair for Controller: The solar charge controller should not be disassembled by the user. If the unit requires repairing, it should be taken to a qualified electrician.
Grounding Recommendation: The controller has a common positive pole inside. If grounding is needed, it is recommended to ground the positive pole.
Avoidance of Paint-Work Contact: It is recommended not to place the solar mat directly over vehicle paintwork, as humidity can cause the mat to stick to the paint.
Dry Surface Placement: To avoid potential issues, users should try to avoid placing the mat on wet grass, especially during early morning sunlight, and instead select a dry surface, unless suspending it or using it for windscreen application.
These features collectively ensure that the KT Solar Mat is not only an effective charging device but also a user-friendly and durable product with built-in safeguards for both the device and the connected battery.
| Maximum Power (Pmax) | 70 W |
|---|---|
| Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 22.4 V |
| Short Circuit Current (Isc) | 4.0 A |
| Module Efficiency | 17.5 % |
| Cell Type | Monocrystalline |
| Maximum System Voltage | 1000V |