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Solar concept is not new for us. We all know the importance of solar energy. Solar gadgets are increasing day by
day. As non-renewable energy sources are decreasing, usage of solar energy is increased. This solar energy is not
only used on the Earth but also used in space stations where no electrical power is available.
Here is the simple circuit to charge 6V, 4.5Ah rechargeable Lead-acid battery from the solar panel. This solar
charger has current and voltage regulation and also has over voltage cut off facilities. This circuit may also be used
to charge any battery at constant voltage because output voltage is adjustable. (We have already seen the circuit
diagram of 9v battery charger circuit using LM311 and SCR in the earlier post.)
For 6V Application:
In this project, power is limited because of the thermal resistance of LM317 voltage regulator and the heat sink. To
keep the temperature below 125 degree Celsius, the power must be limited to 10W. LM317 voltage regulator
internally has temperature limiting circuit so that if it gets too hot, it shuts down automatically.
When battery is charging, heat sink becomes warm. When completing the charging at maximum voltage, heat sink
runs hot. This heat is because of excess power that not needed in the process of charging a battery.
Current Limiting:
As the solar panel provides constant current, it acts as a current limiter. Therefore the circuit does not need any
current limiting.
In this circuit, capacitor C1 protects from the static discharge. Diode D1 protects from the reverse polarity. And
voltage regulator IC provides voltage and current regulation.