Battery charging of cell phone using solar energy

In summary, the conversation discusses the idea of charging a cell phone using solar energy. The speaker is currently working on a project related to this and is seeking suggestions. However, it is mentioned that solar powered cell phone chargers already exist and are not cost-effective compared to using mains power. The conversation also highlights the limited usefulness of such a device, as it would only be necessary in situations where there is no other source of power.
  • #1
sha_virgo
5
0
hi... i have a thought in advance, that i can charge my cell phone through solar energy itself . actually I am doing my activities regarding that... giva me some suggestions which is helpful for me.. and i want to know why this is still not in market..my project is reasonable or not ?...
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
  • #3
It doesn't make sense cost wise. You will spend far far more on a panel and the control electronics than you will ever save from not using the mains. The energy involved is pretty small.

Say it a 5 watt-hour battery and even with an inefficient charger which takes 10 watt-hours from the mains to charge the battery you would have to charge the phone 100 times to use to use 1 KWh. At UK prices a KWh costs about 12 pence (24 cents US?)
You would probably do far less than 100 charges in a year.

Your solar power would be 100's of times more expensive than mains power.

It is only of any use if there is no other source of power.
 

1. How does solar energy charge a cell phone battery?

Solar energy is converted into electricity through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are made up of layers of silicon, a semiconductor material. When sunlight hits the PV cells, it excites the electrons in the silicon, creating a flow of electricity that can be used to charge a cell phone battery.

2. Can I charge my phone using solar energy indoors?

In most cases, solar panels need direct sunlight to generate electricity. However, there are now solar chargers available that come with a built-in battery, allowing you to charge your phone using solar energy even when indoors.

3. How long does it take to charge a cell phone battery using solar energy?

The time it takes to charge a cell phone battery using solar energy depends on several factors such as the strength of the sunlight, the size and efficiency of the solar panel, and the capacity of the battery. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-8 hours to fully charge a cell phone battery using solar energy.

4. Is it safe to leave my phone charging in direct sunlight?

It is generally not recommended to leave your phone charging in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. This can cause the phone to overheat, potentially damaging the battery. It is best to place your phone in a shaded area while it is charging using solar energy.

5. Can I use a solar charger to charge multiple devices at once?

Yes, there are solar chargers available that come with multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices at once. However, keep in mind that charging multiple devices may increase the charging time, as the solar panel needs to generate more electricity to charge all the devices simultaneously.

Similar threads

  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
237
Replies
15
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
3
Replies
88
Views
9K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
10
Views
878
Back
Top