Specs (STC)
Standard Test Conditions (STC) are standard test conditions that reflect the operation of a solar panel under ideal conditions. As part of the tests, the weather of a clear sunny day with an air temperature of +25 °C, no wind, solar intensity of 1000 W/m² and an emission spectrum relative to air mass of 1.5 is simulated. The surface of the solar cell must be placed strictly perpendicular to the rays from the celestial body. Note that in real operation of the solar panel, such conditions are extremely rare. However, in general, the characteristics of the STC allow us to evaluate the "passport" parameters of the energy storage device.
Power (Pmax)
The amount of electricity in watts that a solar panel produces in one hour in tests using the STC method. The panel must provide the declared number of watts during normal operation.
Nominal voltage (Vmp)
The voltage reading on the voltmeter during a solar panel test at the nominal power level according to the STC method. This parameter, Vmp, stands for Voltage at Maximum Power and is measured in volts. It helps determine which type of batteries the panel is designed for — either
12 V or
24V.
Nominal power (Imp)
Ammeter reading during solar panel testing under STC conditions. The value of the rated current Imp (Current at Maximum Power) is measured in amperes.
Open-circuit voltage (Voc)
The voltage generated by the solar battery in idle mode, that is, without connecting the load. Behind the abbreviation Voc stands for Voltage Open Circuit.
Short circuit current (Isc)
The current value under the condition of zero voltage (Short Circuit Current).
Efficiency
Percentage of the maximum solar panel power to the incident radiation power produced. The efficiency parameter allows you to determine how efficiently the panel PV module converts solar energy into direct electric current.
DC output
The presence of a DC connector (or several such outputs) in the design of the solar panel to power external gadgets with direct current.
The standard DC jack is round and has a pin in the center. However, its dimensions may differ in depth and diameter. The voltages output to
the DC output can be different. The most popular options are 18 - 20 V for powering laptops, 12 V for various specialized devices and automotive electrical accessories.
Folding design
The foldable design means that the solar panel can be neatly folded into a compact size. At a minimum, it is very convenient for storage and safe transportation. Especially considering that solar panels in expanded form are quite bulky. The
folding design panels can be used in various outdoor events and open spaces. Depending on the power and modification, they can fit in a backpack or take up minimal space in the trunk of a car.
