Allto Solar AS-SP-20W-M User Manual

The Allto Solar AS-SP-20W-M is a 20W Monocrystalline Solar Panel designed for efficient off-grid power generation. It features high-efficiency solar cells, durable tempered glass, an IP67-rated junction box, and robust aluminum frame. Suitable for charging 12V batteries, powering small appliances, RVs, boats, and remote monitoring systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to Systems 7. Performance & Monitoring 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Monocrystalline Solar Cells, Tempered Glass Surface, IP67 Junction Box, Aluminum Frame, MC4 Connectors.

Feature	Description
Solar Cells	High-efficiency monocrystalline silicon cells
Frame	Anodized aluminum alloy for durability and corrosion resistance
Junction Box	IP67 rated, waterproof with bypass diodes
Glass	High-transmission tempered glass (3.2mm)
Connectors	Standard MC4 connectors for easy system integration
Output Cables	UV-resistant, weatherproof cables (typically 90cm)
Maximum Power	20W under Standard Test Conditions (STC)
Open Circuit Voltage	Approximately 21.6V
Short Circuit Current	Approximately 1.18A
Weight	Approximately 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)

Installation

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

Choose Location: Select a spot with maximum, unobstructed sunlight throughout the day.
Mounting: Use the pre-drilled holes in the aluminum frame. Secure with appropriate brackets and stainless steel bolts. Ensure the panel is tilted towards the sun (optimal angle varies by location).
Electrical Connection: Connect the panel's MC4 connectors to your charge controller or system. Always connect the panel LAST after all other system wiring is complete.
Grounding: For safety, connect the panel's grounding point (marked on frame) to a proper earth ground using a copper wire.

WARNING! Do not install during rain, strong wind, or on unstable surfaces. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

First-Time Setup

After physical installation, configure your power system.

Connect to Charge Controller: Ensure the charge controller is connected to the battery first. Then connect the solar panel to the controller's PV input terminals.
Verify Polarity: Confirm positive (+) to positive and negative (-) to negative connections. Reverse polarity can damage equipment.
System Check: Once connected, the charge controller should indicate PV input voltage/current. Monitor the battery charging status.
Orientation Check: Observe power output at midday; adjust tilt if necessary for maximum yield.

CAUTION! Never short-circuit the panel terminals. Cover the panel with an opaque cloth during wiring to prevent live voltage.

Specifications

Model: AS-SP-20W-M
Maximum Power (Pmax): 20W
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 1.18A
Voltage at Pmax (Vmp): 18.0V
Current at Pmax (Imp): 1.11A
Cell Type: Monocrystalline Silicon
Cell Efficiency: >21%
Dimensions: 350mm x 540mm x 25mm (Approx.)
Weight: 1.5 kg
Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Max System Voltage: 600V DC (UL) / 1000V DC (IEC)
Fire Rating: Class C (UL 1703)
Junction Box: IP67, 3 bypass diodes

Controls and Connections

The panel itself has no active controls. System management is done through the connected charge controller or inverter.

Panel Terminals: Positive (+) and Negative (-) leads terminated with MC4 connectors.

Charge Controller Settings (Typical): Must be configured for a 12V battery system and the panel's specifications. Common settings include battery type (e.g., Lead-Acid, LiFePO4), absorption voltage, float voltage, and load control.

Monitoring: Check controller display for PV voltage, charging current, battery voltage, and daily power generation.

Connecting to Systems

This panel is designed for 12V off-grid systems.

To a Single 12V Battery: Connect panel -> Charge Controller -> Battery -> Loads.
In Parallel: To increase current (Amps), connect positive terminals together and negative terminals together. Use identical panels.
In Series: To increase voltage, connect the positive of one panel to the negative of the next. Ensure your charge controller supports the higher input voltage.
To an Inverter: The battery (charged by the panel) connects to a DC-AC inverter to power AC appliances.

Tip: Always use a charge controller rated for your panel's Voc and Isc. Do not connect the panel directly to a battery.

Performance & Monitoring

Optimal performance depends on sunlight, angle, and temperature.

Daily Output: Under ideal conditions, expect approximately 80-100 Watt-hours per day (varies by location and season).
Monitoring: Regularly check your charge controller's display for:
- PV Input Power (W)
- Charging Current (A)
- Battery State of Charge (%)
Seasonal Adjustment: Adjust the panel tilt angle seasonally for best performance (steeper in winter, shallower in summer).
Shading: Even partial shading on one cell can significantly reduce output. Keep the entire panel surface clear of shadows, dirt, and snow.

WARNING! The panel produces voltage whenever exposed to light, even on cloudy days. Treat connections as live.

Safety Features

Bypass Diodes: Integrated in the junction box to minimize power loss if part of the panel is shaded, preventing "hot spots."

Frame Grounding: Dedicated grounding point for lightning and surge protection.

Weatherproofing: IP67 junction box and sealed edges protect against moisture ingress.

High Voltage Warning: Multiple panels in series can generate dangerous DC voltages. Follow all local electrical codes.

Care & Maintenance

Minimal maintenance is required for long service life.

Cleaning: Periodically clean the glass surface with water and a soft, non-abrasive cloth. Remove dust, bird droppings, and pollen. Do this early morning or evening when the panel is cool.
Inspection: Visually inspect for physical damage (cracks in glass, frame corrosion), loose connections, and wear on cables.
Snow/Ice: Gently remove accumulation with a soft brush. Do not use sharp tools or hot water.
Electrical Check: Periodically measure open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current (using proper tools) to verify performance.

CAUTION! Never walk on the panel. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or high-pressure water jets.

Regulatory Information

Certifications: This product may be certified to UL 1703, IEC 61215, and IEC 61730 standards for safety and performance. Check product label for specific marks.

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference.

Disposal: This product contains electronic components. Dispose of according to local regulations for electronic waste (WEEE). Do not dispose of with household trash.

Warranty: Typically covered by a limited power output warranty (e.g., 90% output after 10 years, 80% after 25 years). Refer to your warranty card for details.

For technical support, visit www.alltosolar.com or contact [email protected].

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power output at controller	Poor sunlight, shading, faulty connections	Check for shading; verify all MC4 connections are secure and locked; measure panel Voc with a multimeter in sunlight.
Low power output	Dirty panel, incorrect angle, partial shading, high temperature	Clean panel surface; adjust tilt angle; eliminate any shading sources.
Charge controller shows error or no PV input	Reverse polarity, blown fuse, wrong controller settings	Check and correct polarity; check system fuses; verify controller is configured for a 12V battery and panel voltage.
Physical damage to glass or frame	Impact, hail, improper handling	Stop using the panel. Contact customer service for assessment. Do not attempt to repair broken glass.
Battery not charging	Panel under-sized for load, faulty battery, poor weather	Check battery health with a voltmeter; reduce load consumption; ensure panel is sized appropriately for your needs.

Reset: Power cycle the system by disconnecting the panel, then the battery, waiting 60 seconds, and reconnecting in the correct order (Battery first, then Panel).

Service: For issues not resolved above, contact Allto Solar Support: [email protected] or visit www.alltosolar.com/support.