Electrical theory 1.9 - Solar powered LED lights

In this section we'll discuss solar powered LED lights.

Operation:

Obviously the sun shines onto a solar panel to charge an internal battery. In the night, the battery powers the lights and controller (if fitted).
Usually there is an inverter IC in the unit to step the battery voltage up to LED voltage.

 

Advantages:

• Lights can be used anywhere without running power wiring.

 

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than powered lights;
• Restricted in number of LEDs and variety of displays;
• Usually these lights are not as bright as mains powered lights because of limited battery power;
• Battery may fail due to long storage time of approx. 10 months;
• Units are usually poorly sealed and water caused corrosion occurs;
• More attractive and easy to steal;
• More difficult to repair.



Photo shows battery and terminal corrosion in solar unit

END