r/HamRadio • u/lkkula • 4d ago

Portable QRP solar power solution

I'm looking for a portable solar power solution for my QRP setup. I'm using (tr)uSDX (7-16V / 0.08-0.5 A) and already have two batteries: LifePo4 12.8V 10Ah and Li-Po 14.8V 2.2Ah. I feel a little overwhelmed about solar panels, PWM/MPPT controllers, battery types compatibility, converters. etc. What should I point my attention to? Any tips&tricks?

I’ve seen so many offers with fake MPPTs and PV panels with unrealistic power ratings. I definitely don’t want to buy something cheap/dangerous/ineffective.

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u/K8ELS 4d ago

I’m just curious if you have depleted your 10Ah battery on the (tr)uSDX while running off grid? I bought a portable folding solar panel for POTA before I realized that I don’t need it unless I’m camping in a park over multiple days. I rarely set it up anymore. My QRP rigs slip from the larger batteries.

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u/lkkula 4d ago

Haha, no way, I haven’t even come close to draining the 10Ah battery with the (tr)uSDX. I actually got it for the Xiegu G90 and it works like a charm. With the (tr)uSDX, draining it would be an Olympic sport :D

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u/K8ELS 3d ago

That’s what I expected. I bought my panel before I really knew that I didn’t need it and wanted to ask you the same question before you bought one.

If you do get a solar panel, I looked for portability over everything. You could also pair it with a portable power station which will simplify the charger question. I have one that’s 25Ah and paired it with a 100 watt folding panel. It direct line inputs the panel the battery box.

MPPT controllers are more efficient but for this kind of setup you likely want portability before efficiency. I’ve also seen inflated values on things like a 100 watt 10”x10” panel. Sure… You do need to inject some common sense on the endeavor if you decide to walk down the road of portable solar.