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Parts list
| Part | Link |
|---|---|
| 1 W board See original Notion bookmark; verify current board/source before ordering | View part ↗ |
| Newpowa 15 W 12 V solar panel Primary solar panel | View part ↗ |
| Solar panel mount Panel mounting hardware | View part ↗ |
| Waterproof box Outdoor enclosure | View part ↗ |
| Solar manager with 3 × 18650 Dedicated solar/power manager | View part ↗ |
| EVE 33V 18650 3200 mAh 10 A battery Use three matched cells per the original design | View part ↗ |
| ALFA Network AOA-915-5ACM 5 dBi Outdoor 915 MHz antenna | View part ↗ |
| U.FL/IPEX to N-type female RF bulkhead pigtail | View part ↗ |
| Optional antenna cable Optional RF extension | View part ↗ |
Build process
- Validate the power architecture
Before wiring anything, confirm the exact input/output requirements of the 1 W radio board and solar manager. A 12 V panel must not be connected directly to low-voltage radio inputs.
- Build the battery pack safely
Use matched, authentic 18650 cells and the battery arrangement intended by the solar manager. Do not improvise series/parallel wiring.
- Bench-test power conversion
Measure the solar-manager output with a multimeter before connecting the radio. Confirm voltage, polarity and current capability under load.
- Install RF hardware
Mount the N-female bulkhead and attach the ALFA antenna through the shortest practical low-loss RF path.
- Enclose and weatherproof
Secure the radio, solar manager and cells against movement. Protect wiring from abrasion and seal every external penetration.
- Deploy in stages
Test on external/bench power, then battery, then solar. Monitor temperature and battery behavior before an unattended outdoor installation.
Build notes
- This is an advanced build because it combines higher RF output with a multi-cell solar power system.
- Use a proper battery management/protection system and follow the solar manager manufacturer wiring diagram.
- The 1 W board link in the Notion note is a bookmark rather than a normal external URL, so the guide intentionally does not invent a purchase link.
This guide was adapted from No Bars Club's working build notes. Product availability, pricing and firmware can change, so verify compatibility before ordering or powering hardware.
Open Notion source ↗