[Elecraft] Update on Micro M+ solar charge controller

[John R. Lonigro]

Gary:
I built one of those M+ controllers many years ago.  For Field Day this 
year, I had two 5 Watt solar panels hooked up in parallel going to it 
and then to a 5 AH gel cell.  After about 6 hours of operating (search 
and pounce) with my K2 at 5 Watts, the micro M+ was cycling, indicating 
the battery was still fully charged.  That was in full sunlight, only a 
few days from the summer solstice.  Depending on how portable you want 
to be and how much operating you intend to do, I would suggest a panel 
in the 5-10 Watt category might work well for you.  The controller 
itself can handle larger panels (higher current), but you don't want 
more than about an Amp going into a 7 AH gel cell, to keep from damaging 
it.  Also, naturally, larger panels (current-wise) tend to be less portable.

73's,
John AA0VE

Gary W. Marklund wrote:
> I've just ordered a M+. I'm using a 7AH 12v gel cell. I would appreciate 
> some suggestions for appropriate solar panels for this application.
>
> TNX and 73,
>
> Gary
> KJ7RT
>
>