Appendix F.Solar Panel Kit

The geokon Solar Panel Kit enables you to power a Cellular Gateway in an area that has no access to mains / domestic power.

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Figure 45: Solar Panel 8900-SOL-10W-BRJ

Inside the kit box are the following:

One envelope containing technical documents and instructions

One mounting bracket

One solar panel complete with power regulation circuitry and power cable

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Figure 46: Solar Panel Kit Box Contents

Installation Overview

The general installation steps are as follows:

1.Select a location for the solar panel.

2.Assemble and adjust the mounting bracket to the proper angle.

3.Install the mounting bracket.

4.Secure the solar panel to the mounting bracket.

5.Connect the power cable to the gateway.

F.1Select a Location

Choose a location for the solar panel that is clear of obstructions and anything that might cast a shadow on the panel.

F.2Assemble the Mounting Bracket

When assembling the two sections of the mounting bracket, be sure to set the sections to the desired angle before tightening the nuts. The angle of the mounting bracket will dictate the angle of the solar panel.

Ensure the angle is at least 10 degrees, to aid in water control.

In general, choose the best angle for the latitude of your location.

Mounting on a horizontal surface will require a reverse configuration of the two sections compared to mounting vertically. See the figure below.

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Figure 47: Mounting Options

F.3Install the Mounting Bracket

Mount the bracket on a flat surface (roof, wall, etc.) using locally-supplied bolts or lag screws. If mounting to a pole, use locally-supplied U-bolts and retaining clamps.

F.4Secure the Solar Panel to the Mounting Bracket

Use the included nuts and screws to secure the solar panel to the mounting bracket. Use the centrally-located holes provided for this purpose on the back of the solar panel.

Note: Be sure to mount the solar panel with the cable coming out the bottom of the panel, as shown below.

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Figure 48: Centrally-Located Mounting Holes

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Figure 49: Mounting Bracket Fastened Centrally

F.5Connect the Power Cable

F.5.1Battery Switch

Before connecting the power cable, be sure you have set the battery switch appropriately, as indicated in Section 3.2.2.

When not using an external battery, set the battery switch inside the gateway to the INT Battery setting.

When using an external battery between the solar panel and the Cellular Gateway, set the battery switch inside the gateway to the EXT BATTERY setting.

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Figure 50: Solar Panel with External Battery

F.5.2Making the connection

Remove the plastic cap from the cable connector, then attach it to the EXT BATTERY plug on the Cellular Gateway. Tighten the retaining ring on the EXT BATTERY plug, for strain relief.

Note: Be sure to implement a drip loop, as indicated in the previous figure, to prevent water ingress through the power connector.