Adventure Kings 160W Folding Solar Panel User Manual

The Adventure Kings 160W Folding Solar Panel is a portable, high-efficiency solar charging solution designed for camping, 4WD adventures, and off-grid power needs. It features a rugged, weather-resistant design with a foldable case, integrated kickstand, 160W monocrystalline solar cells, MC4 connectors, a 10A PWM charge controller, and overcharge/short-circuit protection. Compatible with 12V batteries and various DC devices. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Connecting to Power Sources 7. Operation & Charging 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 160W Monocrystalline Solar Panel, 10A PWM Charge Controller, MC4 Connectors, Foldable Case with Handle, Integrated Kickstand, LED Status Indicators.

Feature	Description
Solar Panel	160W high-efficiency monocrystalline cells
Charge Controller	10A PWM with LCD display for voltage/current
Connectors	MC4 output ports; alligator clips for battery
Design	Foldable, rugged case with carry handle
Kickstand	Adjustable for optimal sun angle
Protection	Overcharge, short-circuit, reverse polarity
Compatibility	12V batteries, power stations, DC devices
Weather Resistance	Water-resistant panel surface (IP65)
LED Indicators	Power, charging, fault status
Dimensions (Folded)	Compact for easy transport and storage

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all parts are present and undamaged.

Unfold the panel: Lay flat on ground or mount surface.
Adjust kickstand: Set to optimal angle facing direct sunlight.
Connect to charge controller: Use provided MC4 cables.
Connect to battery: Attach alligator clips to 12V battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative).
Power on: Switch charge controller to ON position.

WARNING! Do not connect/disconnect under load. Ensure polarity is correct to avoid damage.

First-Time Use

Position panel in direct sunlight; connect to battery; monitor charge controller display.

Orientation: Face panel directly toward sun for maximum output.
Connection: Verify secure connections at MC4 ports and battery terminals.
Charge Controller: Check LCD for voltage, current, and charging status.
Initial Charge: Allow several hours for battery to reach full charge.

CAUTION! Keep panel away from shade, debris, and reflective surfaces that may cause hotspots.

Specifications

Rated Power: 160W.
Cell Type: Monocrystalline Silicon.
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V.
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 9.7A.
Charge Controller: 10A PWM, LCD display.
Protections: Overcharge, short-circuit, reverse polarity.
Connectors: MC4 (panel), alligator clips (battery).
Operating Temp: -20°C to 60°C.
Weather Rating: IP65 (panel surface).
Weight: Approximately 4.5kg.

Controls and Indicators

Charge Controller: ON/OFF switch, LCD display, mode button. Panel: MC4 output ports, kickstand latch.

LCD Display: Shows battery voltage, charging current, charging mode, error codes.

LED Indicators: Green (power on), Flashing Green (charging), Red (fault/error). Modes: Bulk, Absorption, Float (automatic). Settings: Battery type selection (Sealed, Gel, Flooded, LiFePO4).

Connecting to Power Sources

12V Battery: Use alligator clips. Power Station: Use appropriate DC adapter. Multiple Panels: Connect in parallel using MC4 Y-branch cables (not included).

Ensure all devices are off before connecting.
Connect panel to charge controller first, then controller to battery.
Select correct battery type on charge controller.
Turn on charge controller; verify charging begins.

Tip: Use extension cables if needed, but ensure they are rated for solar use.

Operation & Charging

Optimize charging by positioning panel correctly and monitoring battery status.

Sunlight: Place in direct, unobstructed sunlight. Adjust angle seasonally.
Monitoring: Watch charge controller display for real-time data.
Charging Stages: Bulk (high current), Absorption (constant voltage), Float (maintenance).
Disconnect: Turn off charge controller before disconnecting cables.
Storage: Fold panel and store in dry, cool place when not in use.

WARNING! Do not attempt to charge a fully charged or damaged battery. Avoid contact with live terminals.

Safety Features

Overcharge Protection: Prevents battery damage. Short-Circuit Protection: Cuts off current if short detected. Reverse Polarity Protection: Prevents damage from incorrect connections. Weather Resistance: IP65 rated for outdoor use.

Care & Storage

Clean panel surface with soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Store folded in dry location away from extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not walk on or place heavy objects on panel. Keep connectors dry and free of debris.

Regulatory Information

Complies with relevant Australian and international standards for electrical safety and performance. Copyright © Adventure Kings. For support, visit www.adventurekings.com.au or contact customer service. This product is designed for outdoor recreational use; not intended for permanent grid-tied installation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output/charging	Poor sunlight, connections	Reposition in direct sun; check all connections; ensure controller is ON.
Low charging current	Shading, dirty panel, angle	Clean panel; adjust angle; remove obstructions.
Controller shows error	Reverse polarity, overload	Check battery connections; disconnect and reset controller.
Battery not holding charge	Battery age/health	Test battery separately; may need replacement.
MC4 connectors hot	Loose connection, high current	Disconnect, check and secure connections; ensure cables are adequate gauge.

Reset: Turn controller OFF, disconnect from battery and panel, wait 30 seconds, reconnect.

Service: Contact Adventure Kings support for warranty and repair inquiries.