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Solar Panel Parts and Components


Solar Panel Parts and Components

What are the different parts of a solar panel?

I get a lot of questions about the solar panel parts and components. So I wanted to take the time and show you some pictures of different parts and components that you find on normal solar modules. Each panel is different, but I will try to cover the most common type of components.

If you are ever in doubt or overwhelmed with the amount of information on solar systems, call us and we will help you through the process. We are committed to helping our customers find the right solution to their RV solar needs.

**Solar Panel Cell –**A panel usually consists of multiple small solar cells that have their output added together to create the solar panel specifications listed on the panels spec label.

**Solar Panel Power Side –**this is the business side of the solar panel. it collects the sun and turns it into energy.

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**Solar Panel Back Side –**A general view of the back of a solar panel. includes cables, connectors, labels, and junction box.

A pair of RV solar panels in a Go Power RV solar kit.

**Solar Panel Junction Box –**the solar panel connections are made inside of the junction box. The fittings shown are where the solar cables come through and have the MC quick connection cables.

Solar Panel junction box

**Solar Panel Wires and MC Connectors –**the wires are usually 12 AWG for smaller systems and have MC connectors on the end for easy connection. These connectors are the older not clip style MC connectors.

MC 3 and MC4 Solar connectors for RV Solar applications.

Now that you are more fimialr with the parts of the solar panel, here is a selection for you to look at

190 Watt panels are a great RV size and foot print

For years we sold the Go power 190 high quality solar panels. This robust size was powerful yet had a great form factor.
190 Watt Go Power Solar Panel
Go Power 190 Watt Overlander Kit

This Go Power kit is the basic building block of a standard RV solar kit. It comes with the solar panel controller, brackets and solar cable.

Last updated 3 mins ago

With Go Power panels you know you will get what you pay for. They are a little more exspensive and the quality is there to support the price.

Maybe save a few dollars with another RV solar panel brand.

190 Watt Solar Panel
190 Watt Solar Panel

This is a 190 watt bare solar panel. It claims to be RV friendly and has a pretty good price.

Last updated 3 mins ago

There are always different panels that you can choose to build your solar array from. Always consider price versus quality. Solar panels are things you really don't want to have to replace. It is a pain, so choose what works for your RV or off-grid array.

Additional reads

Check out these articles for more information from Outside Supply.
How to Charge Two Batteries in Your RV With One Solar Panel
How to Charge Two Batteries in Your RV With One Solar Panel

Can I charge two batteries in my RV just using one solar panel? We get a lot of questions from our customers about charging two different batteries in their RV from a single solar panel. For example, they want to charge a battery for their house batteries and also their ATV or boat trolling battery. Most solar charge controllers will only allow you to charge one battery. There are a few charge controllers that have now added the default option of having two battery banks.

Go Power RV Solar Kits
Go Power RV Solar Kits

Go Power RV Solar Kits Go Power creates a robust collection of solar panel kits designed for off-grid battery charging in RVs. Go Power has grown over the past fifteen years into one of the largest solar brands in the industry. Now expanding into portable power stations like the duracube which is easily charged by portable solar panels. A selection of pre wired solar kits 190 Watt panels are a great RV size and foot print For years we sold the Go power 190 high quality solar panels.

Power Inverter Connection and Outlets
Power Inverter Connection and Outlets

Power Inverter Connection and Outlets Go Powers carries a wide variety of heavy duty power inverters. A good power inverter has several parts too look for. You will immediately notice the various heavy duty connections and possibly status and readout lights. 1: Input Connections: Notice these are heavy-duty connections. DC wiring is often heavier because of the lower voltages. Always use the recommended wire. You also see the chassis ground connection found on some power inverters in this picture.