what can I expect from a 6v 200ma panel?

[tce]

when I use a solar panel rated at 6v 200ma, the most I get is the batteries to read 3.85 volts. My understanding is that , when fully charged, these batteries should read more in 4.2 volts.

Assuming I have plenty of sun and time, does the panel need more than 6 volts?

tony

[drdongle]

It may just take a bit longer for the batterys to charge if the out put of the panel is lower than the wall charger.

[SamoaPower]

Try measuring the open circuit voltage and the short circuit current of the panel in good sun without the batteries to see if the panel ratings are fact or fiction.

Both should be higher than the ratings.

[ghurd]

My experience with this kind of thing shows the battery volts raise fairly quick to about 1.25V.  Takes a while to get them to 1.35. Takes a long time to get them to 1.4 or 1.45V.

With 2000mah AA batteries, its going to take 10 hours of full (high noon) sun. That rate, C/10, is good for the batteries too.  

For faster charging, it could use 2 PVs for C/5 without much problems.  I would either watch them or use a 4.2V 5W zener diode for a charge controller.

Give it a couple days. I bet its working like it should.

G-

[tce]

Yeah, after 2 whole days at high noon , the voltage is hitting 4+ volts. Thanks.

Tony