Solar Power System for ATL4500/ATL4500G: Essential Components & FAQ

Intro

This guide outlines the essential components for building a solar power system to power an ATL4500G camera using 4G LTE/Wi-Fi connectivity.

The power consumption calculations are based on regular camera usage and are designed to provide 3-4 days of backup power in the absence of sunlight, ensuring continuous remote access and cloud uploads.

*Please note that the actual power consumption will vary depending on the camera's usage patterns and the amount of sunlight available at your installation location.

Essential Components List

This list outlines the essential components you'll need for your solar-powered camera system. We've focused on listing the key parameters to consider when choosing each piece of equipment to help you make informed decisions.

If you need specific product recommendations or Amazon links, please reach out to our customer service team. We're happy to assist you in finding the right products for your needs.

*Please note that we do not include direct links to specific products here because we do not have any affiliate relationships with any merchants. Our recommendations are based solely on technical specifications and suitability for the application.

A. Solar Panel

• Wattage: 80W
•  Voltage: 12V
• Panel Type: Monocrystalline

B. Battery

• Type: Lithium
• Capacity: 50Ah
• Voltage: 12V

C. Charge Controller

• Type: MPPT
• Voltage: 12V
• Amperage: 10A

D. SAE-DC Converter Adaptor Cable

• AWG: 14AWG
• Voltage: 12V DC
• Male DC Jack: 5.5mm*2.5mm
• Length: Choose the cable length that best suits your specific application. Measure the distance between your solar panel system and the device you're powering to minimize voltage drop and ensure efficient power transfer. Avoid excess cable length.

E. Solar Panel Mount Rack (Optional)

• Consideration: We highly recommend using a mount rack that allows you to adjust the angle and tilt of the solar panel. This will enable you to optimize sunlight capture throughout the day and year, maximizing the efficiency of your solar panel system.

F. Weatherproof Box (Optional)

• Consideration: Choose a box that is large enough to comfortably fit your battery, charge controller, and any other equipment you need to protect. Ensure there's enough space for ventilation to prevent overheating.

FAQ

Q: How do I determine the right size solar panel system for my needs?

Our recommendations assume the camera is installed in a location with typical daylight hours of 12-14 hours per day. If you're in an area that gets a lot of rain, has very low daylight hours, or experiences very short daylight hours in the winter, you should definitely consider using a higher wattage solar panel and a larger capacity battery. It's a good idea to keep track of your camera's power consumption based on how you actually use it. This will give you a better idea of how much power you're using and help you calculate the right specs for your needs.

Q: Can I use a foldable solar panel?

If your camera and solar system are installed at a height, pay close attention to safety. Strong winds can make foldable solar panels unstable and potentially dangerous. Consider using a more secure mounting solution or a rigid panel in windy locations.

Q: Will using Wi-Fi or 4G LTE affect power consumption differently?

The difference in power consumption between using Wi-Fi and 4G LTE for the camera itself is generally not significant. However, if you want the solar power system to also power a Wi-Fi router to provide a Wi-Fi network, then you will need a larger solar panel and battery system to handle the router's additional power draw.

Q: What if I want to also power a Wi-Fi router with my solar panel system, so the camera can connect to Wi-Fi?

Adding a Wi-Fi router will increase the overall power consumption of your system. Use a higher wattage solar panel and a higher capacity battery (e.g., 100W panel, 60Ah battery). Calculate your specific energy needs. Place the router for good Wi-Fi coverage and protect it from the weather.