Solar Power Manager (for 9V/12V/18V Solar Panel)

The Solar Power Manager (for 9V/12V/18V Solar Panel) is a high-efficiency power management module designed for off-grid IoT projects, solar-powered robots, and environmental monitoring systems. Driven by the LTC3652 IC, it accepts solar panels from 7V to 30V and charges a 3.7V lithium battery at up to 2A via solar, USB, or an AC adapter. It features selectable Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) alongside multiple individually switchable regulated DC outputs to reliably power low-voltage microcontrollers and sensors.

Board overview and architecture

Built with high-efficiency multi-layer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) and an ESD-shielded USB port, the 78.0mm by 68.0mm module provides stable power conversion in an operating range of -40°C to 85°C. It integrates selectable MPPT settings for 9V, 12V, 18V, or OFF to match solar panels up to 20W.

Solar-powered system connection

The module acts as the central power hub, interfacing directly with a solar panel, a 3.7V lithium-polymer or lithium-ion cell, and system loads. It manages power delivery across multiple outputs while keeping the battery charged.

Versatile multi-source battery charging

The board charges 3.7V single-cell lithium batteries at up to 2A with a charging cut-off voltage of 4.2V (+-1%). It achieves up to 78% solar charging efficiency at 18V 1A input, and 84% charging efficiency at 1A when supplied via a 5V USB or AC adapter input.

Individually controlled regulated outputs

Three independently switchable DC-DC outputs deliver 5V at 1.5A, 3.3V at 1A, and 9V/12V at 0.5A, complemented by a 5V 1.5A USB output. These regulated rails deliver up to 92% conversion efficiency under 50% load.

Integrated system safety protections

Built-in protection safeguards against reverse polarity on both the solar and battery inputs, as well as battery over-charge, over-discharge, and over-current. All regulated outputs and the USB port include short-circuit, over-current, and over-temperature safety cut-offs.

Supplied hardware and thermal accessories

The kit includes an aluminium cooling fin, a thermal conductive silicone pad, and a female DC power jack adapter for input wiring. Four M3 nylon pillars, four M3 stainless steel screws, and three jumper caps are also supplied for mounting and configuration.

Downloads & documentation

• Product wiki (DFRobot)