2007-07-27 16:11:28 · 5 answers · asked by Darkness 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
since you only have 5 volts to start with, any voltage drop in the diode could be a fairly large percentage of the total, you might consider a Schottky or maybe a germanium (if you can find one with a suitable rating) diode
2007-07-27 23:12:45 · answer #1 · answered by tinkertailorcandlestickmaker 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you don't need any diode if the solar panel directly powers the device and there is no chance of reverse voltages. a blocking diode is needed when a storage battery is charged as part of the panel circuit. most solar panels work at higher nominal voltages to help overcome the loss due to the blocking diode. A plain jane 1n4001 will steal 0.7 volt or 14 percent of your supply so they are rarely used in this application. A germanium or schotkey will cut losses in half and are available for the current requirements of most panels. If you are powering 5 volt logic electronics, a standard 14 volt panel, blocking diode, 13.6 volt gel cel and 7805 regulator would be better suited arrangement.
2007-07-28 08:11:56 · answer #2 · answered by lare 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What brand and where did you get a 5 volt solar module?
It depends on how many amps the solar module puts out. Are you wanting a diode at a set voltage will let power through or one that blocks the reverse flow?
You can go to radio shack and get a hand full for pennies each.
2007-07-27 17:06:42 · answer #3 · answered by Don K 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Build Home Solar Power : http://SolarPower.siopu.com/?pXo
2017-04-02 19:16:25 · answer #4 · answered by Sarah 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depends on the current rating..
1n4001 for 1A / 100V
1n5401 for 3A / 100V
*these number refer to their maximum current/voltage handling capacity.
2007-07-27 18:23:09 · answer #5 · answered by Revi G 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋