Testing used panels.

[number1boggy]

So I just got 206 used FA-6450A panels from an auction. I don't have a charge controller or anything else just yet. I want to test each panel and see how many work before I spend any money on the rest of a setup.

What would be the best way to test them? Just a multimeter and test the VOC? Or do I need a charge controller and battery to put a load of sorts on it?

 

[chrisski]

I like @Hedges write up on this:

Measuring PV panel performance

I suppose I could buy a solar panel tester like Will reviewed, but that doesn't feel DIY enough to me. Besides, I'm a cheapskate, and I try to do things in the most difficult (and expensive if the equipment wasn't on hand) way. I'm presently working on an underperforming string of Sharp 165W...

diysolarforum.com

Testing a used panel is a bit more than just VOC and ISC

 

[Solar Guppy]

So I just got 206 used FA-6450A panels from an auction. I don't have a charge controller or anything else just yet. I want to test each panel and see how many work before I spend any money on the rest of a setup.

What would be the best way to test them? Just a multimeter and test the VOC? Or do I need a charge controller and battery to put a load of sorts on it?

Get something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C73VB6Z7/

 

[CaliSunHarvester]

Get something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C73VB6Z7/

I got exactly this one and it works great!

Good for testing a panel purchase, and also to get a better understanding how shading, dirt, angle impact power production.

 

[AT1(AW)]

Or https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MTY51R4?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details You may want the dc clamp meter.

 

[Kornbread]

Similar to the tester in post#3 except this one only goes to 800w. Plug it in. Push a button. I just found a dud panel on the new pole mount using it. https://www.ebay.com/itm/314803370858

xx

 

[Kornbread]

Or https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MTY51R4?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details You may want the dc clamp meter.

Be careful with clamp meters and be sure to get one that measures dc as well as ac. Many of the bargain clamp meters only read ac amps. +2 if it measures and remembers inrush. It helps figure out which inverter you'll need to get that air conditioner or well pump started.