Check Solar Panel Output With Multimeter

Testing the 12 volt solar panel.

Check solar panel output with multimeter.

A solar cell or solar panel to test. We can get by without it. You want to choose a voltage range capable of displaying the maximum possible voltage of the panel in open circuit this means that if you have a panel rated for 20 volts you should set the multi meter. Some exceptions may apply based on panel type.

Open circuit voltage can vary depending on your solar panel but the readings we are usually looking for are in the range of 15 to 23v. To test a 18v solar panel voltage output directly put your solar panel in direct sunlight set your multi meter to the dc volts setting. While using this multimeter select. You then need to touch your solar panel to the multimeter probe.

How to test a 12 volt solar panel vs other voltages. Don t worry if your mutlimeter lacks a current setting. Simply touch the solar panel leads with the multi meter probes matching their corresponding polarity red to red black to black. You will want to ensure that you place the positive to positive and negative to negative when attaching your multimeter to the connection on the back of your solar panel.

Go back and check all the connections of your solar cells and all your stringers or check for cracks in the solar cells themselves. As most solar panels are 12 volts the solar panel test methods are basically the same. For example if your solar panel is 20 volts rated your digital multimeter should be set to a reading of 200 volts for an accurate reading. If it s not there is a problem with your solar panel output.

Using a multimeter to test a solar panel. Solar panel testing for amps. A variable resistance box. There are two types of multimeters.

Attach the meter to the positive and negative terminals on the solar panel and make sure the panel is properly exposed to sunlight. A multimeter is a device that you can use to test the voltage and current of any device. As long as the amp meter is rated higher than the solar panel you will be able to measure the output effectively. To test solar panel amperage output put your solar panel in direct sunlight set your multi meter to the amps setting.

This is nothing more than an easy way to vary the resistance to known settings while it is still in the circuit. Including the solar panels.