How to Hook Up a Solar Panel to 12 Volts
Like any other power source, solar panels must supply at least the minimum amount of power necessary to energize the devices they're hooked up to. But a solar panel that calls itself a "12-volt" solar panel may be lying to you, as these measurements are of the panel's peak performance only and can't be relied upon consistently. If your device requires 12v, you should measure the output of your solar panel while building your circuit to ensure that your device will get the power it needs.
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Instructions
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Lay your first solar cell in the place it will be when your device is fully constructed, and in as much sunlight as possible. Wrap the stripped ends of the lead wires to the terminals of the multimeter and measure the output.
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Wire more solar cells in series to increase the voltage (if necessary) by connecting the leads from the solar cells positive to negative until you have only one negative and one positive remaining. Measure the output in bright sunlight after you add each solar cell.
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Solder all the solar panels together at their connecting points, and attach the two remaining leads to the power inputs of your device.
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Place the entire construction in the brightest sunlight possible and allow several seconds for the solar cells to gather enough energy to power your device.
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Tips & Warnings
To ensure that your device will always receive the power it needs, consider over-estimating the number of solar cells required.
