Zamp Solar ZS-8AW User Manual

The Zamp Solar ZS-8AW is an 80-watt portable solar panel kit designed for off-grid power applications such as RVs, boats, cabins, and camping. It features high-efficiency monocrystalline cells, a built-in charge controller, integrated kickstands, weather-resistant construction, and Anderson Powerpole connectors. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 80W Monocrystalline Solar Panel, 10A PWM Charge Controller, Anderson Powerpole Output Connectors, Integrated Kickstands, Carrying Handle, Weather-Resistant Junction Box.

Feature	Description
Solar Panel	80W high-efficiency monocrystalline cells
Charge Controller	10A PWM with LED status indicators
Output Connectors	Anderson Powerpole 45A connectors
Kickstands	Integrated adjustable stands for optimal angle
Construction	Anodized aluminum frame, tempered glass
Weather Rating	IP65 rated junction box
Carrying Handle	Integrated for easy transport
Dimensions	42.5 x 21.3 x 1.4 inches (unfolded)
Weight	15.4 lbs
Warranty	25-year power output, 5-year materials

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose a location with maximum sunlight exposure.

Position the panel: Deploy kickstands and angle toward the sun (optimal: 30-45 degrees).
Connect to battery: Use included cables with Anderson connectors to battery terminals.
Secure wiring: Route cables safely to avoid tripping or damage.
Verify connections: Ensure all connections are tight and polarity is correct.

WARNING! Do not install during rain or wet conditions. Avoid shading on panel surface.

First-Time Setup

Connect the system and verify operation.

Connect to battery: Red cable to positive (+), black cable to negative (-).
Check controller LEDs: Green light indicates charging; red indicates fault or no sun.
Position for sun: Adjust kickstands for direct sunlight exposure.
Monitor output: Use a voltmeter if available to verify voltage (approx. 18V open circuit).

CAUTION! Never connect panel directly to battery without charge controller. Reverse polarity can damage equipment.

Specifications

Rated Power: 80 watts
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 22.5V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 4.8A
Max Power Voltage (Vmp): 18V
Max Power Current (Imp): 4.44A
Cell Type: Monocrystalline Silicon
Charge Controller: 10A PWM, 12V/24V auto-detect
Connectors: Anderson Powerpole 45A
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 185°F
Warranty: 25-year power, 5-year materials

Controls and Indicators

Charge Controller LED Indicators:

Green LED (Solid): Battery charging normally
Green LED (Flashing): Battery fully charged (float mode)
Red LED (Solid): No sunlight or panel disconnected
Red LED (Flashing): Battery over-voltage or fault condition

Physical Controls: None - fully automatic operation. Connections: Anderson Powerpole outputs (red positive, black negative).

Connecting to Batteries

For 12V lead-acid batteries (AGM, Gel, Flooded).

Ensure battery voltage is between 10V and 15V for 12V systems.
Connect controller to battery FIRST, then connect panel to controller.
Use included 10ft cables with Anderson connectors.
For multiple panels: Consult manual for parallel connection instructions.

Tip: Always connect battery before solar panel to prevent controller damage.

Operation and Charging

Automatic operation once connected.

Daily setup: Position panel facing south (northern hemisphere) at optimal angle.
Monitoring: Check controller LED for charging status.
Performance: Output varies with sunlight intensity, angle, and temperature.
Disconnecting: Disconnect panel from controller first, then battery when storing.
Maintenance charging: Can maintain battery during storage with adequate sunlight.

WARNING! Do not attempt to disassemble panel or controller. No user-serviceable parts inside.

Maintenance & Storage

Clean panel surface regularly with soft cloth and water. Store in dry location when not in use.

Monthly: Clean glass surface, check connections for corrosion.
Seasonal: Inspect cables for damage, test output voltage.
Storage: Disconnect all connections, store in protective case if available.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water on panel.

Regulatory Information

UL Certified to UL 1703 standard. FCC Part 15 Class B compliant. CE marked for European safety standards. Copyright © 2023 Zamp Solar Inc. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.zampsolar.com or contact 1-800-874-8790.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No charging (red LED)	Insufficient sunlight or shading	Reposition panel for direct sun; remove obstructions
Low charging output	Dirty panel, wrong angle	Clean panel surface; adjust angle toward sun
Controller flashing red	Over-voltage or battery fault	Check battery voltage; disconnect and reconnect
No output voltage	Loose connections	Check all Anderson connections; ensure tight fit
Battery not holding charge	Battery age or condition	Test battery separately; may need replacement

Reset: Disconnect panel and battery for 5 minutes, then reconnect battery first.

Service: 1-800-874-8790; www.zampsolar.com/support