How to Use Solar Cell 5v 30ma: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The AOSHIKE Solar Cell 5V 30mA is a compact and efficient photovoltaic module designed to convert sunlight into electrical energy. With a stable output of 5 volts and a current capacity of 30 milliamps, this solar cell is ideal for powering small electronic projects, charging low-power devices, and serving as an energy source for educational experiments. Its lightweight and durable design make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

• Powering small IoT devices and sensors
• Charging low-power batteries (e.g., AA or AAA rechargeable batteries)
• Educational projects and solar energy experiments
• Portable solar-powered gadgets
• Backup power for low-energy devices

The following table outlines the key technical details of the AOSHIKE Solar Cell 5V 30mA:

The solar cell has two terminals for electrical connections:

1. Positioning the Solar Cell: Place the solar cell in direct sunlight or under a strong artificial light source for optimal performance.
2. Connecting the Terminals:
   • Connect the positive terminal of the solar cell to the positive input of your circuit or load.
   • Connect the negative terminal to the ground of your circuit.
3. Load Considerations:
   • Ensure the connected load does not exceed the maximum power output of 0.15W (5V × 30mA).
   • For higher current requirements, consider connecting multiple solar cells in parallel.
4. Energy Storage (Optional):
   • To store energy for later use, connect the solar cell to a rechargeable battery through a charge controller to prevent overcharging.

• Light Intensity: The output voltage and current depend on the intensity of the light. Ensure the solar cell is exposed to sufficient light for optimal performance.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not connect devices that require more than 30mA of current directly to the solar cell.
• Protection Circuitry: Use a diode in series with the positive terminal to prevent reverse current flow when the solar cell is not generating power.
• Weather Protection: If used outdoors, ensure the solar cell is protected from water and extreme weather conditions.

The AOSHIKE Solar Cell 5V 30mA can be used to power an Arduino UNO for low-power applications. Below is an example of how to connect the solar cell to an Arduino UNO with a capacitor for voltage stabilization:

• Connect the positive terminal of the solar cell to the VIN pin of the Arduino UNO.
• Connect the negative terminal of the solar cell to the GND pin of the Arduino UNO.
• Place a 100µF capacitor across the VIN and GND pins to stabilize the voltage.

// Example code for reading a sensor powered by the solar cell
// Ensure the solar cell provides sufficient power for the Arduino and sensor

const int sensorPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to the sensor
int sensorValue = 0;      // Variable to store the sensor reading

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
  pinMode(sensorPin, INPUT); // Set the sensor pin as input
}

void loop() {
  sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); // Read the sensor value
  Serial.print("Sensor Value: ");
  Serial.println(sensorValue); // Print the sensor value to the Serial Monitor
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before the next reading
}

1. Low or No Output Voltage:

   • Cause: Insufficient light intensity.
   • Solution: Ensure the solar cell is placed in direct sunlight or under a strong artificial light source.

2. Fluctuating Voltage:

   • Cause: Variations in light intensity or lack of a stabilizing capacitor.
   • Solution: Use a capacitor (e.g., 100µF) across the output terminals to stabilize the voltage.

3. Device Not Powering On:

   • Cause: The connected device requires more current than the solar cell can provide.
   • Solution: Check the power requirements of the device and ensure they are within the solar cell's output capacity.

4. Reverse Current Flow:

   • Cause: The solar cell is connected to a battery or circuit without a blocking diode.
   • Solution: Add a diode (e.g., 1N5819 Schottky diode) in series with the positive terminal to prevent reverse current.

Q1: Can I connect multiple solar cells to increase the power output?
A1: Yes, you can connect multiple solar cells in parallel to increase the current output or in series to increase the voltage output. Ensure the total power matches your load requirements.

Q2: Is the solar cell waterproof?
A2: No, the AOSHIKE Solar Cell 5V 30mA is not waterproof. If used outdoors, it should be enclosed in a weatherproof casing.

Q3: Can this solar cell charge a smartphone?
A3: No, the current output (30mA) is too low to charge a smartphone directly. It is better suited for low-power devices or small batteries.

Q4: What happens if the solar cell is shaded?
A4: Shading will reduce the light intensity, leading to a drop in voltage and current output. Ensure the solar cell is fully exposed to light for optimal performance.