Solar panel USB charger

Step 1: the benefit of the down converter

This project is essentially a modification of the DIY Solar Battery Charger project, which allows for any size solar panel to be used. By inserting the DC-DC down converter module between the solar panel and the charging module and twisting the little screw on the down converter, the output can be 5 V regardless of the solar panel size. Check that the down converter can handle the peak power voltage of the panel.

Step 2: connect it up

Connect all the components using wire & solder. Left to right in the photo below goes from solar panel to USB port.

Step 3: keep it in place

In our case we want to show the components and circuitry, so they are mounted with hot glue on a wooden backing and covered with perspex.

Happy charging!