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Topic ClosedZamp Solar - Event Date: 27 Jul 2015

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Don Halas View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Calendar Event: Zamp Solar
    Posted: 29 Aug 2016 at 8:00am
There's detailed information about my installation as well as a other set-ups in this post: http://rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5017&KW=solar&PN=1&title=connecting-a-100-watt-solar-panel-to-zamp-port
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Aug 2016 at 2:36pm
I like your flexible panel mounted on the rear roof.  How many volts rating for the panel?
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Aug 2016 at 2:23pm
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Aug 2016 at 12:14pm
Originally posted by StauchwallBend

The 100w panel is plenty for our needs.  We have run a the 12v fan (all day and night), watched TV, charged phones, and run lights with no concern of draining the battery.


Are you using a DC TV or running an inverter for a 120 volt AC TV?


The extension cable in the picture from Battery Tender looks remarkably similar to the Zamp extension cable I purchased for 4x the listed $$.  I need to check the wire gauge, but suspect this Battery Tender extension cable should work on my Zamp 120 volt panel setup.


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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Aug 2016 at 12:06pm
The 100w panel is plenty for our needs.  We have run a the 12v fan (all day and night), watched TV, charged phones, and run lights with no concern of draining the battery.


Are you using a DC TV or running an inverter for a 120 volt AC TV?
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 28 Aug 2016 at 12:03pm
The Zamp Solar system is mfg here in Bend Oregon.  The extension cable I purchased looks quite similar to one sold by Battery Tender.  Overall, although pricy, the Zamp system is functionally easy to setup, monitor, and stores nicely beneath the rPOD 179 sleeping platform, where I also store a step ladder to aid in attaching the Pahaque Custom awning and slide cover.
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 05 Aug 2015 at 11:03am
You'll be happy with the Renogy. I added an extra battery and am charging with the Renogy 100W. No problems whatsoever, plus I can use the solar charger to maintain the batteries when the trailer is parked. Much more affordable option than the Zamp.
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 04 Aug 2015 at 12:22pm
Originally posted by Chacoan

<font face="Times New Roman, Times, serif" size="2">I am getting ready to install a 100w solar panel to the roof of my 177; can anyone tell me about the infrastructure of the roof?  I have removed the A/C cover and can see a metal framework but am not sure if there is a layer of plywood under the fibreglass roof top that will hold the screws. ThanksSmile


If you're interested in this mod, I would highly recommend that you go with flexible solar panels. Considering the shape of the Pod's roof, it's far easier, structurally sound, and aesthetically pleasing than the traditional, though cheaper, hard panels.
"Not all those who wander are lost." Tolkien

2014 Hood River 177
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Chacoan View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 04 Aug 2015 at 9:52am
I am getting ready to install a 100w solar panel to the roof of my 177; can anyone tell me about the infrastructure of the roof?  I have removed the A/C cover and can see a metal framework but am not sure if there is a layer of plywood under the fibreglass roof top that will hold the screws. ThanksSmile
Chacoan
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 02 Aug 2015 at 8:03pm
Originally posted by Plantguy

I have a 2015. 179. It came with the Zamp port. Does it also come with a regulatir/controller? Seems like if the Pod comes setup for a Zamp solar panel pthere would be a regulator/controller built in to the system. If using a inverter are 2 6 volt batteries better than one 12 vwith a solar Charger? Also, anyone have an opinion on a flexible rooftop Panel?


the ZAMP system includes the solar controller, as do all folding portable panel sets. The trailer is equipped with wiring to the battery from the port only.

The inverter itself doesn't car what kind of battery it's hooked to. Without going into the need for an EE, the inverter and battery(ies) DO care about the discharge rate. Size appropriately.

I don't like roof top panels because it means you have to have the pod in the sun, and you can't aim the panels.. a double negative. With a portable panel setup, pod can be in shade, panel in sun, and the panel can be manually tracked.
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