Product Manufacturer: Global Solar Energy
Model Indication / Branding: Sunlinq 25 Watt folding solar panel
Manufacturer Model Number: PN 22127A
Weight: 26 ounces / 737 grams
Output Unloaded: 15.6 VDC
Rated Output: 12 VDC
Nominal voltage: 14.3 VDC(Averaged)
Power: 1500mA
Connector type: SAE 2 Pin Connector "Junction"
Sunset Anti-Feedback Diode: Yes
Cell composition: Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS)
Open size: 34" x 20" / 86.36 cm x 50.8 cm
Closed size: 8.5" x 10.5" x ~2.5" thick / 21.59 cm x 26.67 cm x 6.35 cm
This panel is my first foray into folding portable solar storage. The outer shell material appears to be a plasticized ballistic "rip stop" type nylon material [pattern] of at least a few mils thickness. (I will break out the micrometer if anyone is truly interested)
This product does not technically fall under the mil spec construction guidelines as identified by the manufacturer. The mil-spec units start at 30 Watts (or 62 Watts) and do not include the "accessory kit" . The accessory kit is only included with the 25 Watt and below units. I have not verified the low end of the scale for the accessory kit being included. But the buyer would be wise to ensure that if the kit is not included, that they have it.
This product material is stiff below 75F / 23C and prone to maintaining a memory. If allowed to be stretched out during daylight hours it will mostly conform to the flat or mildly curved surface below it, however below this temperature one will experience some mild displeasure at attempting to fold it when the following to conditions have been met. The materials has a core temp of >75F / 23C and it has been allowed to cool in a open/unfolded position. To create the least amount of stress on the panel one must consider folding these panels when warm. Unfolding the panel does not pose the same challenge as they will conform to the open position once warm.
This solar panel creates voltages that can be unhealthy for sealed/maintenance free batteries/ gel batteries and other types of batteries that do not allow the replenishment of water/acid levels. While the amperage levels are well below the unsafe levels, overcharging batteries by applying high voltages over long periods of time can produce undesirable performance characteristics in the batteries. The optional voltage regulator / charge controller is HIGHLY recommended.
This is a casual use panel. The intended purpose is to suit the qualifications of being ultra portable, mildly rugged and super cool.
The efficiency falls in between that of a rigid glass /silicone panel and above the older amorphous technology. Under peak/ideal conditions somewhere around 19%.
This panel is capable of charging smaller electronic devices directly so long as its output is regulated. On extremely bright days with low load is easily capable of producing voltages that have the potential to severely damage most consumer electronics.
In my setting I use it to keep several gel cell batteries (in parallel) topped up while car camping. This is easily enough power to run many strings of LED lights, a moderate sized car based audio system and the 12VDC margarita blender occasionally through a night and easily for 5-7 days of car camping with no outside input.
I cannot speak to survivalist purpose, but I must say that given proper care and conditions I would expect these panels to work as well as any other glass / silicone unit without the weight. Perhaps even longer for the mil-spec version.
As far as bang for the dollar is concerned. If you are looking for huge power outputs. These are not the panels you are interested in. These panels are built solely for the purpose of being lightweight, rugged and portable.
And with that purpose in mind I must say that i highly recommend them!
Used this product only a few times so far. It has not let me down. I would recommend using the charge controller with it. I hooked up two 7A-hr batteries (from a computer UPS). My system filled my backpack, but wasn't too heavy for our hike. This system worked great to keep my sat-phone charged as well as power left for charging some dry cell batteries.
Buy Sunlinq Portable Solar Panel Charger 25W 12V Now
This is actually a pretty nice solar charger. It only has two negative aspects. First, it only has an energy efficiency rating of about 7%, and even with tender loving care, you can forget about it lasting more than about 3-4 years.
Originally touted as "weatherproof," this Global Solar device actually can be ruined by rain. As for the sun, it tends to dry out and crack when exposed to long sessions and the materials break down with sustained use. Even when pampered, a 3-year lifespan is all that can be hoped for, and this according to the manufacturer. It's great for the camper or hunter, who needs to pack it in a backpack, but somewhat lacking for the survivalist, who expects a 25+ year service life.
The 6W or 12W may be the way to go unless money is no object. Sadly, there's no other option except heavier glass paneled portable units, which weigh about nine pounds. If cared for, though, the heavier glass unit will provide significantly longer, if still indefinate, use.
Read Best Reviews of Sunlinq Portable Solar Panel Charger 25W 12V Here
I had previously purchased the 12W version and discovered it to be very effective, especially on cloudy or overcast days. Since the 12W version had served me so well, I decided to purchase the more powerful 25W version even knowing the company is now out of business and the obvious greater expense.
I travel frequently in a van camper where weight & space limitations are an ever present factor, which is why I was attracted to the light weight, flexible technology in the first place. I also like to boon-dock; in those instances a well charged battery is essential.
The first thing I noticed about the 25W version is its tendency to retain a shape memory. Presumably, because the internal wires are heavier to be able to carry more electricity? Don't know, I'm not that savvy about these things.
My only concern about this model, is whether or not those wires will break with repeated opening and closing of the unit. The 12W version does not display that tendency.
A few months ago I replaced all the interior lighting in the van with LED bulbs, they are pricey but their lower power consumption, while providing adequate lighting, has proved to be very helpful, leaving more power available for the battery operated fan, TV or DVD player.
I also purchased the "Y" cable so both panels can be used simultaneously and as the literature recommended, a charge controller to prevent battery damage. So far it is all working well for my situation. If anything changes I will revise this review.
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