Hobo SOLAR-5W Installation Instructions And Use

The Hobo SOLAR-5W is a compact, high-efficiency 5-watt solar panel designed for portable power applications, charging small electronic devices, and powering low-voltage systems. It features a durable, weather-resistant construction, integrated charge controller, USB output port, and mounting options for versatile placement. 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 Devices 7. Operation & Charging 8. Maintenance 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5W monocrystalline solar panel, Integrated charge controller, USB-A output port, Weather-resistant casing, Mounting holes, Cable with alligator clips.

Feature	Description
Solar Panel	5W monocrystalline cell for high efficiency
Charge Controller	Integrated to prevent overcharging
USB Output Port	5V/1A output for charging phones, tablets, etc.
Weather Resistance	IP65 rated for outdoor use
Mounting Holes	For secure placement on various surfaces
Alligator Clips	For direct connection to 12V batteries
LED Indicator	Shows charging status (green/red)
Operating Temperature	-20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
Dimensions	290 x 195 x 18 mm (11.4 x 7.7 x 0.7 inches)
Weight	0.9 kg (2 lbs)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal location for sunlight exposure.

Select location: Place in direct sunlight, facing south (northern hemisphere) or north (southern hemisphere).
Mount panel: Use provided screws or adhesive mounts through mounting holes.
Connect to battery: Attach alligator clips to 12V battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative).
Connect USB device: Plug device into USB port for direct charging.

WARNING! Do not install near flammable materials. Ensure secure mounting to prevent wind damage.

First-Time Setup

Position panel for maximum sunlight; connect to power source.

Check LED indicator: Green light indicates charging; red indicates low/no power.
Angle adjustment: Tilt panel 15-30 degrees for optimal sun exposure.
Test USB output: Connect a compatible device to verify charging.
Monitor performance: Ensure no shading on panel surface during peak hours.

CAUTION! Avoid touching terminals when connected; keep away from children and pets.

Specifications

Power Output: 5W (max).
Open Circuit Voltage: 21.6V.
Short Circuit Current: 0.29A.
USB Output: 5V DC, 1A.
Battery Connection: 12V DC via alligator clips.
Cell Type: Monocrystalline silicon.
Weatherproof Rating: IP65.
Operating Temperature: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F).
Storage Temperature: -30°C to 85°C (-22°F to 185°F).
Warranty: 1 year limited warranty.

Controls and Connections

Front Panel: Solar cells, LED indicator. Rear Panel: USB port, alligator clip cables, mounting holes.

LED Indicator: Green = charging/power good; Red = low input or fault.

Connections: USB port for 5V devices; Alligator clips for 12V batteries (red positive, black negative). Mounting: Use holes at corners for screws or adhesive pads. Positioning: Adjust angle seasonally for best performance.

Connecting Devices

USB Devices: Phones, tablets, power banks. 12V Batteries: Car batteries, marine batteries, solar power banks.

Ensure panel is in sunlight before connecting.
For USB: Plug cable directly into port (max 1A draw).
For battery: Connect red clip to positive (+), black to negative (-) terminal.
Check LED for connection status.

Tip: Use a multimeter to verify battery voltage before connecting.

Operation & Charging

Designed for continuous outdoor use with proper sunlight.

Daily use: Leave panel in sun; it will automatically charge when light is sufficient.
Battery charging: Connect to 12V battery; charge time varies by battery capacity.
Device charging: Plug USB device; charging stops when full (smart charge control).
Performance: Output reduces in cloudy conditions or partial shade.
Storage: Disconnect and store in dry place if not used for extended periods.

WARNING! Do not disassemble panel; no user-serviceable parts inside.

Maintenance

Keep panel clean for optimal performance. Wipe surface with damp cloth as needed.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water. Inspect cables regularly for damage.

Safety Information

Electrical Safety: Avoid contact with live terminals. Environmental: Dispose of according to local regulations. Installation: Secure properly to prevent falling.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European market. RoHS compliant. Copyright © 2025 Hobo Solar; trademarks of Hobo Energy Solutions, Inc. For support, visit www.hobosolar.com or contact 1-800-555-0123.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power output	Insufficient sunlight/connections	Move to direct sun; check all connections; clean panel surface.
LED not lighting	Faulty connection or panel damage	Verify battery/USB connection; inspect for physical damage.
Slow charging	Cloudy weather or shading	Reposition for better sun exposure; remove obstructions.
USB device not charging	Device incompatible or faulty cable	Try different cable/device; ensure USB port is clean.
Battery not charging	Battery low or damaged	Check battery voltage; replace if below 10V.

Reset: Disconnect all cables for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: 1-800-555-0123; www.hobosolar.com