Here’s how I set up the DC Boost converter as a virtual solar panel.
To test out the concept, I set up a 12v headlight relay between my battery and the DC Boost converter. The relay is actuated by a 12v wall adapter plugged into a Z-Wave controlled appliance module.
The output of the converter is connected in parallel with a real solar panel and feeds a typical grid tie inverter, that is off camera, via a pair of 10ga. conductors. A DC watt meter reads the output voltage, current and power.
I’m able to turn the virtual panel on and off via the home automation controller or manually at the appliance module. I’ll show how I implemented the control algorithm in an upcoming video.
I’ll also look into adding a small cooling fan to the boost converter to help it run cooler and set up an external dump load, instead of the grid tie inverter, to make a stand-alone DC load:
- https://youtu.be/9D3XSEF86eQ
Soundtrack:
Solar Flares by Silent Partner
https://www.youtube.com/audiolibrary/music
Post time: Jan-04-2017