Tp-Solar 100W Foldable Solar Panel Instruction Manual

The Tp-Solar 100W Foldable Solar Panel is a portable, high-efficiency monocrystalline solar charging solution designed for outdoor activities, emergency power, and off-grid applications. It features a compact foldable design, durable Oxford cloth casing, built-in kickstands, multiple output ports (including USB-A, USB-C, and DC), integrated smart charge controller with overcharge/overload/short-circuit protection, and a high conversion efficiency rate. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 100W Monocrystalline Solar Cells, Foldable Design with Carrying Handle, Smart Charge Controller, Multiple Output Ports, Built-in Kickstands, Protective Oxford Cloth Case.

Installation & Unfolding

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

1. Unfolding: Place panel on a flat surface. Unfold the three panels completely and lay them flat.
2. Angle Adjustment: Deploy the built-in kickstands on the back. Adjust the angle to face the sun directly (typically 30-60 degrees depending on latitude and season).
3. Location: Place in direct sunlight with no shading on the solar cells. Avoid reflective surfaces that may cause hotspots.
4. Controller Setup: Ensure the charge controller is securely connected to the panel's output cable.

WARNING! Do not unfold or fold the panel in strong wind. Keep the solar surface clean and free from obstructions.

First-Time Setup

Position the panel and connect to your device or battery for the first charge.

1. Sunlight Orientation: Point the panel directly at the sun. Use the kickstands to achieve the best angle.
2. Connect to Device: Use the appropriate cable (USB or DC) to connect your phone, power bank, or compatible device to the panel's output port.
3. Check Indicator: The LCD screen on the controller should light up and show voltage (V) and current (A). A sun icon indicates charging is active.
4. Battery Connection (Optional): For charging 12V/24V batteries, connect the DC output to the battery terminals via the provided alligator clips (RED to positive, BLACK to negative). The controller will manage the charge cycle.

CAUTION! Never connect the DC output directly to a device not rated for the panel's voltage. Always use the correct cables and connectors.

Specifications

• Maximum Power (Pmax): 100W
• Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
• Short Circuit Current (Isc): 5.8A
• Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp): 18V
• Cell Type: Monocrystalline Silicon
• Output Ports: USB-A: 5V/2.4A (x2), USB-C: 5V/3A, 9V/2A, 12V/1.5A (18W Max), DC: 12-24V/5A Max
• Controller: Integrated Smart MPPT/PWM with LCD Display
• Dimensions (Unfolded): Approx. 36 x 21 inches (91 x 53 cm)
• Dimensions (Folded): Approx. 21 x 12 x 2 inches (53 x 30 x 5 cm)
• Weight: 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
• Operating Temperature: -4°F to 149°F (-20°C to 65°C)
• Weather Rating: IP65 (Dust tight, protected against water jets)

Controls and Indicators

The primary interface is the integrated charge controller with its LCD screen and button.

LCD Screen Display: - Voltage (V): Input voltage from the solar panel. - Current (A): Real-time charging current. - Power (W): Calculated charging power (V x A). - Battery Icon/Bar: Indicates battery charge level (when connected to a battery). - Sun Icon: Flashes when charging is active. - Error Codes: E01 (Over-current), E02 (Over-voltage), E03 (Short-circuit), E04 (Reverse Polarity).

Controller Button: Press to cycle through display modes (Voltage, Current, Power, Battery Level). Long press (3 seconds) to turn the controller output ON/OFF.

Physical Ports: Clearly labeled USB-A, USB-C, and DC output ports. DC input port for connecting to the solar panel (pre-connected).

Connecting Devices

Connect various devices to the appropriate output ports.

1. Smartphones/Tablets (USB): Use a USB-A to Lightning/Micro-USB/USB-C cable, or a USB-C to USB-C cable for fast charging. Plug into the corresponding USB port.
2. Power Banks: Connect via USB cable to charge the power bank. Ensure the power bank is turned on if required.
3. 12V/24V Batteries: Use the provided DC cable with alligator clips. Connect RED clip to battery positive (+) terminal, BLACK clip to negative (-) terminal. The controller will automatically detect battery voltage.
4. Car Refrigerators/Other 12V Devices: Use a DC 5521 to device-specific cable. Plug the 5521 connector into the panel's DC output port.

Tip: For optimal charging speed, connect only one high-power device at a time. The total output is shared across all ports.

Charging & Operation

Maximizing solar energy harvest and proper operation.

1. Optimal Sunlight: Position the panel where it receives direct, unobstructed sunlight from 9 AM to 3 PM for best results.
2. Angle Adjustment: Adjust the panel angle every 1-2 hours to follow the sun's path for consistent power output.
3. Monitoring: Check the LCD screen periodically to ensure the panel is producing power (current reading above 0.5A in good sun).
4. Battery Charging Stages: When connected to a battery, the controller manages Bulk, Absorption, and Float stages automatically. The LCD will show the current stage.
5. Using USB-C PD: The USB-C port supports Power Delivery. It will automatically negotiate the highest voltage (9V or 12V) with compatible devices for faster charging.
6. Low Light Conditions: The panel will still produce reduced power in cloudy weather or indirect light, but charging will be slower.

WARNING! Do not attempt to disassemble the panel or controller. Do not expose the electronics or LCD screen to heavy rain or submersion.

Safety Features

The integrated smart charge controller provides multiple protections:

• Over-Current Protection (OCP): Automatically limits output current if exceeded.
• Over-Voltage Protection (OVP): Protects connected devices from voltage spikes.
• Short-Circuit Protection (SCP): Cuts off output in case of a short circuit and resets automatically when fault is cleared.
• Reverse Polarity Protection: Prevents damage if battery cables are connected incorrectly.
• Over-Temperature Protection: Reduces output power if the controller overheats.

General Safety: Keep away from children. Do not place heavy objects on the panel. Do not stare directly at the reflective surface in bright sunlight.

Care & Storage

Proper maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

1. Cleaning: Wipe the solar panel surface with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, or bird droppings. Use a mild soap solution if necessary. Dry completely with a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water.
2. Storage: Fold the panel carefully along its pre-set folds. Ensure the solar surface is clean and dry before storing. Store in the included carry bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
3. Transport: Use the carrying handle. Avoid sharp bends or folds in the cables. Do not place other heavy items on top of the folded panel.

CAUTION! Do not fold the panel when the surface is wet. Never store with the cables pinched between the panels.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. CE Mark: Conforms to European health, safety, and environmental protection standards. RoHS Compliant: Does not contain hazardous substances as per Directive 2011/65/EU. Copyright © 2025 Tp-Solar. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. For technical support and warranty service, visit www.tp-solar-support.com or contact +1-800-555-0123.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Disconnect all devices and the solar panel from the controller for 5 minutes, then reconnect.

Service: For persistent issues, contact support: +1-800-555-0123; www.tp-solar-support.com