[pct-l] solar charger

[David Austin]

I have a Goal Zero Nomad 7 as well as a Nomad 20 and multiple 30 watt
panels. The trick with solar panels is that you should use the solar panel
to charge a battery pack. When the battery pack is charged you can use that
to charge your phone. Many phones include charging circuitry that only
works with proper strength charge is coming in. Solar panels will not
provide consistent output. It will vary depending on many factors,
including weather/clouds and angle to the sun. Other devices such as
headlamps should charge ok even on weaker signals but still best to charge
a battery pack then charge the device.

Goal Zero makes excellent products that may be better quality than their
competition but they are more expensive. The panels are heavy. I would just
buy a big battery pack that will charge your phone and other electronics
between resupply/town stops. This is what I'm doing. Since I already own
many Goal Zero products, I'll be taking only a battery pack, the Venture
30. Many people use Anker and they are good too (and cheaper). Just get one
that has enough charge for your use and doesn't weigh a ton.

David

On Sat, Jan 23, 2016 at 7:38 AM, CClark <dr_carolyn at yahoo.com> wrote:

> I'm considering purchasing a Goal Zero Nomad 7m solar charger or a Goal
> Zero Switch 10 Multi-tool Kit to keep our electronic devices charged while
> thru-hiking.Has anyone tried using these?Can anyone recommend other/better
> ways to stay charged?
> Carolyn "(Souldoctor")
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-- 
- David Austin
davidaustin777 at gmail dot com