Solar Chargers

[rme2015]

We're looking at new solar charging systems, our requirements are pretty minimal, a few cell phones, bluetooth speaker, and a couple of rechargeable lanterns.

We had a couple of single panels and 2 10,000mah battery packs at TBF 2016. The battery packs were really slow to charge phones/etc.
I am seeing 25,000mah units on Amazon w/ 1Amp ports for around $50.

Do I gain anything just upgrading the mah capacity, but the same slow charge times?
Or should we look at something more expensive, that charges multiple devices simultaneously, and quicker than our entry level existing product?

[culasthewiz]

Seems like the issue with slow charging was the amperage.  1A is going to be pretty slow.  You'll want 2.1 or 2.4A charger going forward.

I have 2 of these and they're great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01422TC14/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[rme2015]

Thanks. Would you mind telling me what solar panel you use with the battery pack?

[Maple Al]

I was looking at replacing the solar panels that didn't survive last years Telluride and I like the options that Goal Zero has. From basic to quite advanced systems depending on your needs and budget. They look like a improvement over the system that I built about 15 years ago.

 Listening to: Sam Bush Merlefest

[culasthewiz]

Thanks. Would you mind telling me what solar panel you use with the battery pack?

I have a rather old goalzero foldable charger but it's on its last legs (panel covering is yellowing and charging speed has slowed to a trickle) so I'm currently vetting new solutions.

I also have one of these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076PR4TBZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 which I used for the first time last year and it has a MC4 hookup.  So I'm considering buying a new 40-50W panel (currently debating rigid vs foldable) to hook to this and THEN charge the battery banks off of that.  This will result in some inefficiency but I think this will be easier to deploy in a sunny spot because where we camp gets minimal direct sunlight.

However since we're in Town Park, I may skip the whole solar deal and just charge up periodically at Herzog or the bath house.

[soling]

Would confirm what Al said: I Have a goal zero nomad 20(watt) folding panel and a goal zero Sherpa 100watt battery/controller/inverter .  Check the former and carry the latter on board if you’re flying in.  Works like a charm at the high altitude direct sunlight in TRide and will keep your gizmos topped off.Lots of used goal zero products available on eBay for bargains

~ s

 Listening to: West Wind Clare FM stream from Ennis, IRL