Rocksolar RSF100W User Manual

The Rocksolar RSF100W is a 100W Flexible Solar Panel designed for portable and off-grid power applications. It features high-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells, a durable ETFE laminate surface, waterproof construction (IP67), integrated bypass diodes, and a lightweight, bendable design (up to 30 degrees). It includes MC4 connectors and is compatible with 12V/24V battery systems and most solar charge controllers. 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. Operation & Performance 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Flexible monocrystalline solar panel, MC4 connectors, ETFE surface, junction box with bypass diodes.

Feature	Description
Rated Power	100W maximum output
Cell Type	High-efficiency monocrystalline silicon
Surface Material	ETFE laminate for durability and light transmission
Waterproof Rating	IP67 (dust and water resistant)
Flexibility	Can be bent up to 30 degrees
Connectors	Standard MC4 connectors (male/female pair included)
Junction Box	Integrated with bypass diodes to reduce shading loss
Dimensions	Approximately 1100 x 540 x 2.5 mm
Weight	Approximately 1.8 kg (lightweight)
Operating Temp	-40°C to +85°C

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure mounting surface is clean and smooth.

Choose mounting location: Select area with maximum sunlight exposure, free from shading.
Prepare surface: Clean surface thoroughly. For adhesive mounting, use recommended VHB tape or adhesive.
Mount panel: If using adhesive, apply to back of panel and press firmly onto surface. For mechanical mounting, use grommets (if equipped) – do not overtighten.
Route cables: Secure cables to avoid abrasion and sharp bends.

WARNING! Do not walk on panel. Do not bend beyond 30 degrees. Ensure all connections are dry before making electrical connections.

First-Time Setup

Connect panel to your system; ensure proper polarity.

Connect to charge controller: Connect panel's MC4 connectors to charge controller's PV input terminals (observe + and -).
Connect charge controller to battery: Connect controller to battery (12V or 24V) using appropriate cables.
Verify operation: Place panel in sunlight; check charge controller display for input voltage and current.
Angle adjustment: For fixed installations, tilt panel towards the sun for optimal performance (angle depends on latitude).

CAUTION! Disconnect all connections before handling electrical terminals. Use insulated tools.

Specifications

Maximum Power (Pmax): 100W
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 6.24A
Voltage at Pmax (Vmp): 18.0V
Current at Pmax (Imp): 5.56A
Power Tolerance: ±3%
Max System Voltage: 600V DC (UL) / 1000V DC (IEC)
Fire Rating: Class C (or as per local standards)
Warranty: 12-year product warranty, 25-year linear power output warranty

Controls and Connections

Panel has no active controls. Electrical connections via MC4 connectors at junction box.

Junction Box: Contains bypass diodes. Sealed, non-serviceable. Do not open.

Cables: 900mm length, 4mm² cross-section, with MC4 connectors.

Polarity: Male connector is positive (+), female connector is negative (-) for standard configuration. Verify with a multimeter if unsure.

Connecting to Systems

Compatible with most 12V/24V off-grid systems, solar charge controllers (PWM or MPPT), and inverters.

Turn off all system components before connecting.
Connect panel to charge controller's PV input terminals.
For multiple panels: Connect in series for higher voltage (add voltages) or parallel for higher current (add currents). Use appropriate combiners and fuses.
Select correct input voltage setting on charge controller (12V or 24V).

Tip: For MPPT controllers, ensure panel's Vmp is higher than battery voltage. Use appropriate cable gauges to minimize voltage drop.

Operation & Performance

Panel generates DC electricity when exposed to sunlight.

Optimal Sunlight: Position panel perpendicular to sun's rays for maximum output.
Performance Factors: Output reduces under cloudy conditions, shading, high temperatures (>25°C), or soiling.
Monitoring: Use charge controller display or separate meter to monitor voltage and current.
Seasonal Adjustment: Adjust tilt angle seasonally if possible (higher in winter, lower in summer).
Cleaning: Keep surface clean for best performance (see Care & Maintenance).

WARNING! Panel produces voltage whenever exposed to light, even if not connected to a load. Handle with care.

Safety Features

Bypass Diodes: Integrated to minimize power loss if part of panel is shaded. Waterproof Construction: IP67 rating protects against dust and temporary immersion. ETFE Surface: UV resistant and durable.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning improves performance. Disconnect from system before cleaning.

Cleaning: Use soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
Inspection: Periodically check for physical damage, loose connections, or soiling.
Storage: If storing, keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not stack heavy items on panel.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water jets. Do not attempt to repair damaged cells or junction box – contact authorized service.

Regulatory Information

Complies with relevant safety and performance standards (e.g., UL 61730, IEC 61215, IEC 61730 where applicable). CE marked. Copyright © Rocksolar. For support, visit www.rocksolar.com or contact [email protected].

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output voltage	Shading, poor connections, faulty controller	Check for shading; verify all MC4 connections are secure; test panel voltage with multimeter in sunlight.
Low output power	Dirty surface, shading, high temperature, mismatch	Clean panel; remove shading objects; ensure panel is not overheating; check system compatibility.
Physical damage (cracks, delamination)	Impact, over-bending, weathering	Stop using damaged panel. Contact Rocksolar for assessment. Do not attempt to repair.
MC4 connectors overheating	Loose connection, corrosion, overcurrent	Disconnect immediately. Check for corrosion and secure connection. Ensure system current is within limits.
Charge controller not recognizing panel	Polarity reversed, voltage too low, faulty cable	Check polarity; measure open-circuit voltage (should be ~21.6V in full sun); inspect cables for damage.

Reset: Disconnect and reconnect all connections. Restart charge controller per its manual.

Service: [email protected]; www.rocksolar.com