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     Peter Miles
     Northam, Western Australia
     QRZ Page: VK6YSF

 

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DC DISTRIBUTION FOR OFF-GRID CAMPING

12V distribution for managing solar off-grid camping 


 

Camping off-grid requires a reliable power system to keep essential devices running consistently. A well-designed 12V DC distribution board, even if simple, provides efficient power management, ensuring that the battery, solar panel, and connected loads work reliably together for extended periods. This set-up allows campers to maintain power independence without relying on external sources.

Photo 1 Camp set up. 

 

 

Photo 2 DC distribution board and water pump.

 

Fig 1 Schematic diagram of the DC distribution board and related equipment.

 

Photo 3 DC distribution board construction showing the metering shuts to the left and negative and positive bus centre.

 

Camping off-grid requires a reliable power system to keep essential devices running consistently. A well-designed 12V DC distribution board, even if simple, provides efficient power management, ensuring that the battery, solar panel, and connected loads work reliably together for extended periods. This set-up allows campers to maintain power independence without relying on external sources.

The core of the system is a 97Ah 12V lead-acid battery, which serves as the primary power source. Chosen for its sufficient capacity, this battery is also compatible with my 4WD, allowing for easy interchange ability during extended trips or emergencies. To maintain a steady charge, a 160-watt solar panel is integrated into the system. This solar panel connects via a 50A Anderson connector, enabling the use of alternative or additional solar panels as needed.

Monitoring the charging process is crucial for optimising power usage, which is why a DC Multifunction Digital Power Meter Energy Monitor Module is included. This module provides real-time data on voltage, current, power, and energy generated by the solar panel, enabling users to make informed decisions about their energy consumption.

In addition to monitoring the charging process, the system also includes a second DC Multifunction Digital Power Meter Energy Monitor Module to track total load performance. By measuring energy used by connected devices, this module helps manage the system load, ensuring that excessive power consumption is avoided.  

Basically, so long as more power is generated in Watt hours than consumed over a period of days, power is available indefinitely. 

Photo 4 DC Multifunction Digital Power Meter Photo 5 DC Multifunction Digital Power Meter wiring

 

DC Multifunction Digital Power Meter features.

1. Electrical parameter measurement function (voltage, current, active power, power).

2. Overload alarm function (overpower alarm threshold, the backlight and power flicker tips).

3. The power alarm threshold pre-set function (can set up their own power alarm threshold).

4. Power-down data storage function.

5. Large-screen LCD screen full display function (display voltage, current, active power, power).

6. Backlight.

 

The power distribution system is designed to accommodate different power requirements. High-demand devices such as fridges or inverters connect via 50A Anderson connectors, which handle high-current loads efficiently. For lower-powered devices such as LED lighting, USB chargers, or pumps, smaller 30A Anderson connectors are used, providing a more practical solution for smaller loads.

A well-planned 12V DC distribution board is an essential component of any off-grid camping experience. With a robust battery, efficient solar charging, real-time energy monitoring, and secure power distribution, this system offers a seamless way to manage power needs. Whether running a fridge, charging devices, or powering lights, campers can confidently rely on this set-up for extended off-grid adventures.

 

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Page initiated 19 February, 2025 

Page last revised 19 February, 2025

 

 

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VK6YSF JS8Call and Olivia 8/250 operations.

Current activity is generally, however not restricted to operations with JS8Call and Olivia 8/250 on the 20m and 40m band.

Proposed band and mode activity is often communicated on HamSpots: https://hamspots.net/js8/ or my profile on 

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VK6MJM is a  LF/MF station located in Manjimup, Western Australia.

Mode: Mode: FST4W 300 (Similar to WSPR)

Station details were presented by Peter Hall (VK6HP) at PerthTech 2024.Presentation PDF: Peter Hall VK6HP at PerthTech

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