Getting the most out of your solar array in partial shade.
Are you a Class A or 5th Wheel owner struggling to find a solar panel that can efficiently power your RV with obstructions like A/C units, antennas, and vents casting shadows? You’re not alone. As you drive and the sun moves in the sky, these obstructions can drastically reduce the output of traditional solar panels.
With a traditional solar panel, all of the cells are connected in series. This means that something even as small as a pencil, laid across one cell, can dramatically reduce the output of the solar panel, and any other solar panel connected in series to it. There is a better way.
The Zamp Solar 190W DJ (Dual Junction Box) panels, proudly made in Bend, Oregon using cut 6” monocrystalline cells, are specifically engineered to deliver more consistent output in partial shade conditions. They accomplish this by having two separate and independent 95W panels in the same frame. Instead of having a nearby shadow completely knock out the entire panel, the production loss is limited to just one of the 95W panel halves.
What’s more, these panels, with their two halves, can be installed in two different configurations: parallel and series. The parallel configuration is designed to help mitigate shading, while the series configuration allows for a higher voltage array, making it an ideal choice for 24V voltage battery banks.
One of the key features of these panels is their tempered, low iron, 3.2 mm, AR-coated solar glass. This coating helps to increase the efficiency of the panel by 3-5%, compared to non-AR-coated glass. Additionally, it allows the panel to convert more light into energy at steeper sun angles, producing more power in the mornings and evenings. The coating also makes cleaning easier, as dust and dirt are repelled rather than trapped on the glass.
Zamp Solar takes pride in making their products in the USA, and their 190W DJ panels are no exception. The panel itself measures 58.3” x 26.4” x 1.38” and weighs in at 26.0lbs. The frame is made of silver anodized aluminum, which is both durable and corrosion-resistant. The panels have an operating voltage (Vmpp) of 20.4V / 40.9V and an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 24.2V / 48.4V. The operating current (Impp) is 9.3A / 4.65A, and the short circuit current (Isc) is 10.02A / 5.01A.
Wattage: 190W
Type: Monocrystalline
Operating Voltage (Vmpp): 20.4V / 40.9V
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 24.2V / 48.4V
Operating Current (Impp): 9.3A / 4.65A
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 10.02A / 5.01A
Size: 58.3″ x 26.4″ x 1.38″, 26.0lbs
Frame: Silver Anodized Aluminum
Zamp Solar – Manufactured in Bend Oregon
Dual Mode solar panel kits can be purchased in two different configurations.
Parallel: Two separate, shade-resilient, parallel-connected panels (ideal for installations next to air conditioners)
Series: A single high-voltage panel (ideal for 24V systems or undersized pre-wires).
The ultra-clear textured solar glass on the panels allows for superior light transmittance, while the high-strength glass eliminates unwanted distortions. The ultra-white glass also decreases light reflection, while a thin layer of optoelectronic semiconductor enhances the electrical generation capabilities of the module.
In summary, if you’re a Class A or 5th Wheel owner with plenty of roof space, but lots of obstructions, Zamp Solar’s 190W DJ panels, proudly made in the USA, may be just what you need. With their AR-coated solar glass and shade-resilient configurations, these panels are designed to maximize efficiency in challenging conditions, so you can make the most of your rooftop solar setup.
