Service life of solar cells?

Maybe if it hasnt been used its shelf life might be extended ?

Stick a Multi meter on it and see if you can get about 2.4 Amps out of it .

Cheers

Mandrake

Even if it only puts out 50% of its original power, it's still free power.

Hi John,

Solar cells can be tested by putting an ammeter directly across the two wires effectively measuring the current in a short circuit situation. You should get somewhere near 3 - 4 amps and no, you won't damage anything as this is a normal test routine for solar cells (don't try this on a battery!).

Also, the open circuit voltage, measured simply by putting a volt meter across the two wires, should give you around 17 - 20 volts.

The above of course assumes you are doing this in full sunlight. If you get somewhere near the above readings, the panel is fine.

Cheers
Gerry

I'm running a solarex sr80 - 20 y.o. been in a car accident and been partially rebuilt (by me) and still kicking 5a.

Thanks every one for the replies.

Have some figures and ideas as a basis for a check.

As Mike DiD says, even if it is only working 50%, still better than nothing.

Just need to decide on that point where space for it and the power gain becomes too much of a trade off :o)

I would imagine new panels are far more efficient than 30 year old technology
i would imagine solar power was in its infancy back then

it would be up to you if it does the job you want it for and you have the space and the weight capacity
or
if you would be better off with a more modern,lighter higher output panel

With the panel being that age, count the number of cells in it. If there is not 36 then it will not be much use with a simple regulator, you will need an expensive MPPT regulator if there are less than 36.

PeterD