Using wall sockets to charge your phone is a thing of the past because now we have solar-powered mobile chargers. Wait what? Surprised! Not only do these help in times of power outages, but they also come in handy, especially for travelers who might find themselves in places with interrupted access to electricity. But what exactly is the working principle of a solar mobile charger. To find this out, keep reading.
What is the Working of a Solar Mobile Charger?
Before you understand the working of a solar mobile charger, there is an important question you need to address. What is a solar mobile charger and what are its components? You can understand it as a compact device that uses energy from the sun to charge mobile phones. It operates by utilizing solar panels or photovoltaic cells to convert solar energy into electricity.
The charger consists of several components and they are: –
- Charge Controller: Manages the power flow from the solar panel to the battery, ensuring optimal charging conditions.
- Battery: Stores the energy received from the solar panel for later use.
- Voltage Regulator: Stabilizes and regulates the voltage output from the solar panel to ensure it remains within a safe range for charging the battery.
- Universal Charging Port: A port where you can connect your device (such as a cell phone) using a USB cable to charge it using solar energy.
After learning what is a solar phone charger, let’s look at the working principle solar mobile charger.
Working Principle of Solar Mobile Charger
The working principle of a solar mobile charger involves the utilization of solar panels to capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy. These solar panels are composed of multiple solar cells that absorb sunlight and generate electricity. The generated electricity is then used to charge solar batteries, which serve as energy storage devices. In some cases, solar chargers may also include an onboard battery pack that can store surplus electricity for later use.
The stored solar energy can be directly used to charge various handheld devices like phones and small electronic devices. For devices that require DC electricity, a charge inverter may be necessary to convert the electricity from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Consumer solar battery chargers typically have smaller-sized and lower-power output solar panels compared to larger solar power systems. They effectively maintain battery charge and can even replace the self-discharge of unused batteries. This should have given you an idea about the working of a solar mobile charger. Now, let’s explore the history of solar mobile charger.
What is the History of Solar Mobile Chargers?
The history of solar mobile chargers can be traced back to the advent of solar energy. Before the 21st century, the concept of harnessing solar power for charging batteries had already been explored, with France being an early adopter of solar energy as an alternative source. However, it was in the 21st century that significant advancements in solar cell technology made solar mobile chargers more practical and widely available. In 2008, Japanese companies StrapyaNext and Tokyo Coil Engineering made headlines by claiming to have developed the world’s first solar-powered battery charger for cell phones, showcasing the progress made in this field.
In the present day, solar cell phone chargers are available in various forms and designs, including foldable models. They serve as a convenient portable charging solution in situations where there is no access to electricity. Additionally, some solar chargers can also function as conventional chargers by connecting them to an electrical outlet. These solar chargers are frequently utilized to charge cell phones and other compact electronic devices while on the move.
Cross-Reference: World’s first solar battery charger for cell phones
How Long it Takes to Charge a Phone with Solar Phone Charger?
The charging time of a phone using a solar phone charger depends on two main factors:
- Intensity of sunlight
- Capacity of the solar cell phone charger
In optimal conditions, with bright sunlight and a charger equipped with a 5-watt solar panel, it typically takes approximately 4-5 hours to fully charge a cell phone.
Also Read: How Long Does a Golf Cart Take to Charge?
What are the Advantages of Solar Phone Charger?
There are several advantages of using a solar phone charger:
1. Renewable Energy: Solar energy, which powers the charger, is a renewable source of energy. It relies on the sun’s abundant and sustainable power.
2. Free and Environmentally Friendly: The energy source for solar chargers is sunlight, which is freely available. Solar charging is a clean and eco-friendly method that reduces dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
3. Low Maintenance: Solar phone chargers generally require minimal maintenance. They have fewer moving parts and don’t require frequent replacements or repairs.
4. Cost-effective: Solar chargers can save money in the long run since the source of energy is free. They eliminate the need for conventional electricity, reducing utility bills.
Also See: Do Solar Trickle Chargers Work?
What are the Disadvantages of Solar Phone Charger?
Despite their advantages, solar phone chargers also have some limitations:
1. Slow Charging: Solar charging is typically slower compared to traditional charging methods. It takes longer to accumulate sufficient energy from sunlight to charge a device fully.
2. Dependence on Sunlight: Solar chargers depend on sunlight to generate electricity. Therefore, they may not be as effective on overcast days or in areas with limited sunlight.
It’s important to consider these advantages and disadvantages when deciding to use a solar phone charger. After this, let’s learn about solar mobile charger prices.
Also Read: Power Bank Solar Charger Instructions: User Manual for Portable Charging
What is Solar Mobile Charger Price?
The price of solar mobile chargers varies depending on the brand, capacity, and features. On Amazon, its price ranges from $18.95 to $72.96. While on Walmart’s website, its price ranges from $15.99 to $50.96.
Note: The price range here is approximate, so always check the current price before any purchase.
By reading till now, you have already taken a big leap towards going solar with your chargers. Plus, after this comprehensive guide on the working of solar mobile chargers, you will hopefully not have any doubts about its working. But if you still do, address them in the comment section below.
Source: Portable Solar Mobile Charger
