Do I Need a Charge Controller

[Ralo]

Hello All,

I'm researching the possibility building a solar powered cell signal booster as coverage sucks in my area and was tring to determine just what I need to buy. The signal booster is 12v, and so is the battery, and the panel is 17v, so do I really need a charge controller? I don't mind buying one, just have limited room in the enclosure I'm planning to use. All feedback appreciated. Thanks!

Ralo

 

[Bob142]

Yes, use a charge controller otherwise you risk severely overcharging the battery and ruining it. Given that I see 20W in your solar panel pic, for your purposes something like an inexpensive 5A PWM should work fine (shop around).

 

[ghostwriter66]

YES .. just get one of those cheap $8.00 off of eBay ... but without it you are going to dump 17V onto a system that probably can't take more then 12.8 and fry it

 

[tictag]

Where (i.e. what country) are you planning to install this cell signal booster? It's just that these are illegal in the UK (without an ofcom license), it might be worth checking your country's regulations before buying.

 

[Ralo]

Thanks guys! That makes sense. I'm installing it in the US. Not illegal here.