Elenco Deluxe Solar Educational Kit - Manual (Page 3)

3
+ -
+
-
+ - + -
+
-
-
+
E 1 E 2 E 3
I 1 I 2 I 3
I 1
E 1
+
-
I
2
E 2
+
-
I
3
E 3
ETOTAL = E 1 + E 2 + E 3
ITOTAL = I 1 = I 2 = I 3
ETOTAL = E 1 + E 2 + E 3
ITOTAL = I 1 = I 2 = I 3
A: SERIES CONNECTION B: PARALLEL CONNECTION
FIGURE 5
In order to transmit the electricity provided by sunlight activating the “N-P” junction of the
solar cell, simply attach a conductor (copper wire) to each half of the cell. The resulting electrical
current is determined by the square area of the cell being used at about one-half volt. To vary
the amount of current or voltage produced, cells can be connected in series and/or parallel.
Figure 5 illustrates that when multiple solar cells are connected in series the voltage (E) is
increased, but the current (I) remains constant. Conversely, when multiple solar cells are
connected in parallel the result is increased current without altering voltage output.
OPERATION OF THE SOLAR MODEL
Your model will function best when the solar cell or solar cell module is placed in direct
sunlight. For best performance, place in an east, south or west window. In the event you don’t
have a window facing the sun or you prefer unlimited operation, an artificial light source can be
utilized to power your model. The distance from the artificial light source to your model will
depend on the wattage of your light source. We recommend using a 100 WATT incandescent
light approximately 5 inches above your model to obtain maximum performance. (For not more
than 3 minutes as the heat may melt the plastic frame)
SOLAR CELL MODULE
If your model comes supplied with an encapsulated solar cell module for remote light pick
up, place the solar cell module in a window (with supplied clear suction cup) or inside a table
lamp. As you can see you can operate your Solar model day or night. The solar cell is
encapsulated in a protective and laminated with special resin to prevent damage and comes
complete with miniature wire.
Do not subject the solar cell module to an excessive heat location, as it will warp the plastic
frame. Remember, it is not heat that makes your model function, it is light. A little experiment
will tell you what setting makes your model work best!
Please handle all models with care.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?
Although the solar cell described in the previous section will provide enough power to operate
your Solar model, a more efficient system must be developed in order to produce enough
electricity to satisfy average consumer needs. Some of the concepts currently under study
include solar cell arrays on individual buildings which will be designed to supply all of that
building’s electrical requirements; massive central systems erected in selected locations which
receive abundant sunlight capable of serving an entire distribution system and even central
orbiting systems in space which will beam power back to earth and then on to individual users.
Practical applications of solar energy will be plentiful in the years to come. Some uses in the
not too distant future include: electrical power for remote areas; battery recharging for appliances,
radios and TV’s.
The technology of solar energy is still in the formative stages, however much of what is
known today can and is being applied by innovative individuals. Our company, is one company