6V 300mA solar panel or 4v 430mA panel

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the selection of a solar panel for a toy boat project, specifically comparing a 6V 300mA panel with a 4V 430mA panel. Participants explore considerations related to power output, motor compatibility, and design constraints.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the 6V panel produces slightly more power (1.8W compared to 1.6W) and questions the voltage requirements of the motor.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of considering the total dimensions, weight limits, and power output of available solar panels for the design.
  • Concerns are raised about the suitability of the project for a toy boat, with a suggestion that the power formula should be understood by the designer.
  • A participant mentions that the 6V panel may be more compatible with commonly available motors compared to the 4V option.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the project involves a toy boat and that both power output and motor compatibility are important factors. However, there is no consensus on which solar panel is definitively better, as considerations vary based on specific project requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations such as the maximum area for the solar cell (150 sq.cm) and the need for modeling based on weight and power output, but these aspects remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in solar energy applications, toy design, or small-scale engineering projects may find this discussion relevant.

mnnittronix
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Please help me...

I need to make a solar boat for a project. the problem is this that i have two options of buying the solar panel which suits my max. dimension of solar panel. one is 6V 300mA and other one is 4V 400mA.

Now i am a bit confused about which one to buy.as i need both the speed and torque in the motor running via it to run the race,,

Please help me to choose which one will be better if i use to them to power a motor to run my boat..






Thanks in advance !
 
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The 6v panel produces slight more power (1.8W rather than 1.6W) but a more important questions is
what voltage motor do you have available?
Is this going to be a simple panel->motor or are you planning some motor control electronics
 
This is for a toy boat right, not something people would be on? I shudder to think someone who doesn't know the power formula would be designing this :rolleyes:

The actual answer depends on the total dimensions of the available space, the total weight allowed, and the power output for every type of solar panel available. Then its a matter of modeling.
 
cronxeh said:
This is for a toy boat right,
I hoped that with a 1.5W panel they weren't planning an ocean crossing ;-)
 
it is a toy boat. there is limit for 150 sq.cm of the solar cell. now i could get max of the above from it
 
The 6V panel puts out slightly more power and you are probably going to be able to more easily find 6V motors than 4V ones
 

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