Dear Ron,
I went back and reviewed those Kaneka Panels. Figured I better go through the math here again...
My Kyroceras (today) gave me 7amps each @14.40 bank voltage that'd be 100.8watts that I am actually getting. Wholesale solar sells them for $415 individually.
So that gives $415/100.8watts for $4.12/watt. The price is $405 for two panels shipped together, and usually they do free shipping.
I liked the looks of the FM80 Outback. Its rated for 150vdc input. These Kaneka panels are sold for $.98 per watt in quantities of 50units and up. Four of these panels could be purchased for $1.40 per watt not including shipping. Or $84 per panel.
So if I got the Kanekas, it'd be $336 for the panels and they weigh 32lbs a piece so shipping comes into play. Dunno what that'd be. Non trivial though. The Outback is $589 from Wholesale Solar.
$589+$336+$X=925+X
Lets say you get 60 watts from the panels and skip the shipping thats 925$/240w for
3.85/watt
Whereas if I bought two Kyoceras for $810 that'd give $810/201.6watts for $4.02/watt.
Ron it looks like it boils down to the shipping. Both ways have advantages. The Kyroceras are plug and play for me. I don't need more wire for them.
The FM80 would be a definite upgrade.
I was hoping to spend less then $800 but your idea might be worth it for a permanent installation.
What I like about the Kyroceras is that they can be seperated to charge smaller isolated banks or joined together to charge one big bank. I can mix and match depending on where I need the power. They are really handy if I leave the semi in the bush and want to keep it trickle charging.
The FM80 sounds like the road to a more permanent established system for a house or shop.
Definitely worth calling and finding out about the shipping.
DF