In case anyone is interested in portable solar panel setup. I received the ZOUPW 450W Portable Solar Panel EZ450W (SKU B0DGT547L7) to connect to my 5th wheel toy hauler. This panel replaced the 200W portable solar panel I previously used. What initially drew me to this panel was the portability, the rated output and the panels are the newer N-Type with 16 bus bars. I had high expectations this panel would exceed the output of similar sized 400W panels. The folded dimensions are 30.4”x34.5”x3.5” and deployed 121.8”x34.5”x0.79”, weighting 27 lbs. The solar panels arrived nicely packaged and undamaged. They have a nice thickly padded zippered case with storage pocket for the included extension cable and MC4 to DC7909/DC8020/XT60/Anderson adapter and stakes.
Boxed Packaged w/ Foam Storage Bag w/ Storage Included Adapters
Setting up the panels was very simple with the built-in carrying handles, latches on the panels and built-in kick stands, taking less than 1 minute. The panels MC4 connections and included extension cord made connecting to my RV very simple.
N-Type Panel Panels Setup Adjustable Kickstand Panel MC4 Output
My initial test was not in optimal condition, early February in late afternoon (1430 hours); however, the panel output was still impressive. The output at the panel was 47.4V and 11.6A. With slight loss through the extension wire, the charge control was recording 37.6V, 11.4A and 430W. I wanted to get a record in actual conditions, not just optimal setup.
Voltage Output Amp Output Charge Control V & A
I did get time several days later to record the output in better sun conditions. This test was taken at 1115 hours. The output at the charge control was 37.3V, 11.9A and 443W. This is impressive coming from 450W rated portable panels.
Panel Setup Second Test Panel Specs Second Test V & A
Overall, I am very happy with the build quality, ease of use and output from these panels. While not as convenient as roof top mounted solar panels, I prefer the portable solar panel method. This allows me the flexibility of parking the RV in the shade to keep it cooler and not worry about solar panels on the roof getting sun. I am also able to adjust the panels throughout the day to keep them at an optimal angle. While I don’t have a direct comparison to 450W roof top mounted panels, I believe for my use I am getting more usable power with the portable panels. Another benefit is I can take them along to use when not using the RV.
Boxed Packaged w/ Foam Storage Bag w/ Storage Included Adapters
Setting up the panels was very simple with the built-in carrying handles, latches on the panels and built-in kick stands, taking less than 1 minute. The panels MC4 connections and included extension cord made connecting to my RV very simple.
N-Type Panel Panels Setup Adjustable Kickstand Panel MC4 Output
My initial test was not in optimal condition, early February in late afternoon (1430 hours); however, the panel output was still impressive. The output at the panel was 47.4V and 11.6A. With slight loss through the extension wire, the charge control was recording 37.6V, 11.4A and 430W. I wanted to get a record in actual conditions, not just optimal setup.
Voltage Output Amp Output Charge Control V & A
I did get time several days later to record the output in better sun conditions. This test was taken at 1115 hours. The output at the charge control was 37.3V, 11.9A and 443W. This is impressive coming from 450W rated portable panels.
Panel Setup Second Test Panel Specs Second Test V & A
Overall, I am very happy with the build quality, ease of use and output from these panels. While not as convenient as roof top mounted solar panels, I prefer the portable solar panel method. This allows me the flexibility of parking the RV in the shade to keep it cooler and not worry about solar panels on the roof getting sun. I am also able to adjust the panels throughout the day to keep them at an optimal angle. While I don’t have a direct comparison to 450W roof top mounted panels, I believe for my use I am getting more usable power with the portable panels. Another benefit is I can take them along to use when not using the RV.
