Compact 18 Hatch

Perfect for keeping batteries charged while you are away, running a bilge pump a few minutes a day, or powering other smaller loads like an LED anchor light or a GPS and a fishfinder.

Flat cable: The panel is designed to be mounted on or next to a hatch, lazarette or other opening with a cover. The flat cable permits tight closure of the opening with the cable going to the inside. The panel is partially transparent so that some light still can go through a hatch window.

Weight: 2.2 lbs (1.0 kg).

Construction: Monocrystalline silicon high efficiency photovoltaic cells mounted on a polycarbonate backing. The top surface is laminated with transparent UV-resistant ETFE film. Another UV-blocking film protects the polycarbonate from degradation in the sun.

Electrical properties: Pmax 18 W; Vpm 19.1 V; Ipm 0.95 A; Voc 22.6 V; Isc 1.05 A under STC conditions (solar irradiation 1000W/m2; spectrum AM 1.5, 25*C). Minimal back current, thus a blocking diode is not needed. The use of a solar charge controller is recommended for a permanently connected panel. For 24V batteries we recommend the use of a step-up charge controller rather than connecting panels in series. Maximum system voltage must not exceed 45V.

Mounting: For a permanent mount adhesive sealants or a double-sided tape can be used. Where transparency is desirable, use a clear silicone or clear 3M VHB tape. Temporary mounts can be achieved with outdoor velcro pads or tape.

Electrical connections: The standard panel has two tinned copper pads at the end of the flat cable. This permits attaching a longer continuation cable by soldering. The pads are soft and can also be rounded to fit a yellow 10-12 AWG crimp connector. In both cases the connection should be weatherproofed, e.g. with electrical liquid tape, caulking or epoxy. Optionally the panel can be ordered with a splash-proof quick-connector at the end of the flat wire (the mating connector is included for you to mount on extension wires or a cable of your choice).