How does this affect watts

[ShelbyWatson]

So, I've hooked my 6 solar panels in series, which will make the volts add up. Volts times 6. If I change this to having 2 sets of 3 panels in series, the calculation would be 3 times volts with the amps times 2. Connecting the two sets of three together in parallel. The two sets (series) will be connected by positive to positive and negative to negative. (Or parallel)
If I am understanding correctly, this will allow me to hook them up with a lower voltage than if they were all hooked up in series.
The panels are rated at 100 watts each. I know that watts are a calculation on volts times amps. So, I'm assuming in connecting in series I am modifying total watts? Or am i still dealing with 600 total watts?

 

[tmcblane]

I think you are still dealing with 600 watts just your voltage is different your amps should be the same. Just being in series you can use smaller gage wire if you have to. Problem with panels in series that I have noticed is if one gets shaded it great degrades its output more so than when just run in parallel.

 

[JeepHammer]

Depends on what the charge controller will handle...
For the ease of math, say 15 volts open circuit.
100 Watts ÷ 15 Volts = 6.66 Amps
Your mileage may vary since I don't know the actual voltage ratings,
Or more importantly the actual, real world output.

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6 in Series, 100 Watt Panels x 6 = 600 Watts.
100 Watts x 6 panels, 600 Watts.
Series drives up Voltage,
6 x 15 Volts = 90 Volts.
90 Volts x 6.66 Amps = 600 Watts.

6 in Parallel, 100 Watt Panels x 6 = 600 Watts.
100 Watts x 6 Panels = 600 Watts.
Parallel drives up Amperage,
6 x 6.66 Amps = 39.96 Amps
39.96 Amps x 15 Volts = 600 Watts.

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3 in Series, x 2, 100 Watts Panels x 6 = 600 Watts.
100 Watts x 3 = 300 Watts.
Series drive up Voltage.
15 Volts x 3 Panels = 45 Volts
45 Volts @ 6.66 Amps = 300 Watts, x2 = 600 Watts.

3 Panels in Parallel x 2, 100 Watt Panels x 6 = 600 Watts.
6.66 Amps x 3 Panels = 19.98 Amps
19.98 Amps @ 15 Volts = 300 Watts, x2 = 600 Watts.

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Wattage is a common rating,
You can convert that Wattage into higher Amperage, or higher Voltage, but it's still 600 Watts total.
Series drives voltage up,
Parallel drives Amperage up,
Either way it's 600 Watts.