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2.4

Major VersionM

by Pete Prodoehl

Introduction

Note: This kit has been replaced with a newer version. Check out the Solar USB Charger 2.0 Kit.

Build a basic Solar USB charger in 15-25 minutes with this simple soldering kit.

The printable PDF has updated directions to reflect the new USB circuit that we're using.

Featured Document

  1. Strip the ends of all wires, including the Battery Holder.
    • Strip the ends of all wires, including the Battery Holder.

  2. Solder the Diode to the (+) Positive solder point on the Solar Cell. Note: The Diode has a black bar on it.  That side is soldered to the Red wire and the non black bar side is soldered to the Solar Cell. Twist one end of your Red wire around the other side of the Diode. Solder into place.
    • Solder the Diode to the (+) Positive solder point on the Solar Cell.

    • Note: The Diode has a black bar on it. That side is soldered to the Red wire and the non black bar side is soldered to the Solar Cell.

    • Twist one end of your Red wire around the other side of the Diode. Solder into place.

    • Snip off excess parts of the Diode legs.

  3. Twist the Red wire from the Solar Cell together with the Red wire from the Battery Holder.
    • Twist the Red wire from the Solar Cell together with the Red wire from the Battery Holder.

  4. Solder the Red wire coming off the switch to the (+) Positive terminal on the USB Circuit. Solder the Red wire coming off the switch to the (+) Positive terminal on the USB Circuit.
    • Solder the Red wire coming off the switch to the (+) Positive terminal on the USB Circuit.

  5. Solder your Black wire to the (-) Negative side of the Solar Cell.
    • Solder your Black wire to the (-) Negative side of the Solar Cell.

  6. Twist the Black wire from the Solar Cell together with the Black Wire from the Battery Holder.
    • Twist the Black wire from the Solar Cell together with the Black Wire from the Battery Holder.

  7. Solder the two Black wires to the (-) Negative terminal on the USB Circuit. Solder the two Black wires to the (-) Negative terminal on the USB Circuit.
    • Solder the two Black wires to the (-) Negative terminal on the USB Circuit.

  8. The rechargeable AA Batteries used in the kit may be dead, charge them up quickly with a wall AA charger. In a pinch, use regular AA Batteries for a quick test. NEVER try to charge regular AA Batteries.
    • The rechargeable AA Batteries used in the kit may be dead, charge them up quickly with a wall AA charger.

    • In a pinch, use regular AA Batteries for a quick test. NEVER try to charge regular AA Batteries.

    • Check out the diagrams in this step if you're worried you missed something.

    • When in doubt, try a different USB device.

  9. While an Altoids tin works well, it is metal and conductive.
    • While an Altoids tin works well, it is metal and conductive.

    • Using a Dollar Store plastic food container or cheap wooden box is always a good solution.

Finish Line

Joshua

Member since: 11/16/2017

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