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Build your own solar powered computer
By MB-BigB | September 26, 2008
I sure was surprised today when the mailman brought my new issue of Computer Power User (CPU). The cover story is entitled “Build a Solar-Powered PC & other high-tech projects.” For the solar powered computer, they selected components very carefully to minimize power consumption and maximize performance (CPU is very good at that – its for people who build their own computers, like me). Then they built a solar array consisting of 3 12-volt Alps ATI-130 Multicrystalline Photovoltaic Solar Panel Modules, which produce a nominal output of 130 watts each, an inverter, batteries and a charge controller. They put a great deal of thought into the solar array components, and go through their thought process for selecting each one.
You need to be a subscriber to read the article on line, but you should be able to pick up a copy of the November 2008 issue which should be available soon at your local bookstore or newstand.
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Topics: Solar Power | 7 Comments »
7 Responses to “Build your own solar powered computer”
Comments
September 30th, 2008 at 7:29 am
Hmm I really want to read this article now…
February 21st, 2009 at 6:08 am
please send info
February 21st, 2009 at 10:27 am
you’ll need to go to http://www.computerpoweruser.com and see if you can buy the Nov 2008 issue. Or maybe your local library could possibly have it.
May 23rd, 2009 at 2:47 am
Hi, I built my own which has a weight of 20 ounces, and the power of a laptop, with a projector display (Capable of very large screens) see info:
http://digitalsurveyinstruments.com/beagleperiphials/solarcomputer/index.htm
September 8th, 2009 at 12:20 am
Better have a very large UPS to buffer your power… What if a large cloud passes and the solar panel doesn’t pump enough power to your computer? Kidding. =)
November 27th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Wow! Thanks for the heads up on this, I have been wanting to build a solar powered web server for a green project of mine. I am going to try and find the issue, and take a loop at geckosenator’s site above
December 13th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Go check out my solar powered computer – runs off of DC insted of DC to AC to DC….
http://solarcellsr.us
Waldo