{"title":"Merlin Solar","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"merlin-solar-mppt-solar-charge-controller-15a","title":"MERLIN SOLAR MPPT Solar Charge Controller (15A)","description":"\u003cp\u003eSolar charge controllers dynamically modulate the power output from solar panels to appropriately charge the connected battery. MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar charge controllers are 'smart' electronic DC-DC adaptors that optimize amp delivery from the solar panels to the connected battery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe strongly recommend that you carefully review the Technical Specifications chart below, and have a thorough understanding of how this Merlin MPPT charge controller will interact with the other components of your solar set up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMerlin Solar MPPT 15A Solar Charge Controller Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15A Max Current\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh quality components\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlexible working environment temperature range (-40C to +60C)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with lead-acid battery, lithium battery, and many others\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLithium battery self-activating and low temperature protection function\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaximum conversion efficiency of 98%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtensive electronic protection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRS485 waterproof interface can provide power supply\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnecting the IOT (Internet of Things) module\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIP68 waterproof degree\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluminum housing for better cooling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMerlin Solar MPPT 15A Solar Charge Controller Technical Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/files\/merlin-solar-15a-mppt-solar-charge-controller-technical-specifications-charge-profile_600x600.jpg?v=1594959420\" alt=\"Chart of Technical Specifications for Merlin Solar MPPT 15A Solar Charge Controller\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Merlin Solar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31928548589686,"sku":"MS-MST-TS15","price":105.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/products\/merlin-solar-15a-mppt-solar-charge-controller.jpg?v=1594965746"},{"product_id":"merlin-solar-panther-series-folding-solar-panel","title":"SOLARHAWK Rover 100W Folding Solar Panel - BXD100","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt might be tempting to believe there is sorcery going on at Merlin Solar, given how rugged and efficient the SolarHawk Rover Portable Solar Panels are. But in fact, these heavy duty portable solar panels are the product of good, old-fashioned American research \u0026amp; development. SolarHawk Rover panels are mil-grade and optimized for maximum performance in scattered light \u0026amp; extreme weather conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis SolarHawk Rover Solar Panels is a 100W foldable solar panel that is ideally suited to off-road camping adventures due to the glass-free and busbar-free PV cell design. The solar panels are made with redundant PV cell connectivity, which allows them to withstand physical and thermal extremes (aka overlanding).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SolarHawk Rover panels are foldable, compacting down to the size of slim briefcase. Lightweight and thin, they are easy to stow, even in a fully packed overland rig. Legs to position the panels at an angle to the sun are integrated into backing and include eyelets for anchoring in high wind. Whether you're looking to explore beyond the convenient powered campsites, or simply needing to provide solar power to your fridge and 12V accessories, the SolarHawk Rover 100W portable solar panel is a practical, reliable solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSolarHawk Rover 100W Portable Solar Panel Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIndustry leading power output\u003c\/strong\u003e- Mono cSi cells optimized for maximum performance in scattered light \u0026amp; extreme weather conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDesigned and engineered in the USA\u003c\/strong\u003e- Fully-integrated, patented MERLIN® technology. Deployed worldwide to extreme environments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRedundancy by design\u003c\/strong\u003e- Robust module integrity and performance under extreme conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRugged and Durable-\u003c\/strong\u003e Military grade design, materials, and approvals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEmergency power anywhere\u003c\/strong\u003e- Light weight, portable power on board means being ready to handle emergency conditions with increased reliability and increased power availability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoldable and Portable\u003c\/strong\u003e- Easy-pack solar panel includes ergonomic handle, built in legs for each tri-fold section, pockets for cables, and Velcro closure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Install \u0026amp; Setup-\u003c\/strong\u003e Simple plug and play solar module and compatible with most charge controller brands. Scalable with multiple modules to enable larger system.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSolarHawk Rover 100W Performance vs Other Portable Solar Panels\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e80% Lighter than Glass Panels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e50X More Durable than Bus-Bar Technology\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e20% More Energy in Real World Conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.5X Power Density than Thin Film Technology\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSolarHawk Rover 100W Portable Solar Panel Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhysical Specifications of Solar Panel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions (Folded):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 24.7\" (L) x 16.8\" (W) x 2\" (D)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions (Unfolded):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 52.2\" (L) x 24.7\" x 0.9\" (D)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e8.2 \u003cspan\u003elbs\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCord:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 5.5 ft, 8AWG\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConnector:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Gray Anderson SB50\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSolar Panel Electric Specifications \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCell Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMono-crystalline\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of Cells\u003c\/strong\u003e: 42\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRated Power (PMax): \u003c\/strong\u003e100W\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVoltage at PMax (Vmp): \u003c\/strong\u003e23.35V\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCurrent at PMax (Imp): \u003c\/strong\u003e4.5A\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOpen Circuit Voltage (Voc):\u003c\/strong\u003e 27.89V\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShort Circuit Current (Isc): \u003c\/strong\u003e4.75A\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eActive Area Efficiency: \u003c\/strong\u003e19.56%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemp Coefficient of Isc: \u003c\/strong\u003e0.05% \/ °C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemp Coefficient of Voc: \u003c\/strong\u003e-0.33% \/ °C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemp Coefficient of PMax: \u003c\/strong\u003e-0.42% \/ °C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOperating Temperature: \u003c\/strong\u003e-40 to +85 °C (-40 to +185F)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArchitecture of Merlin Photovoltaic Cells\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100W monocrystalline array (42 arrayed cells)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMerlin's patented grid technology dwarfs conventional connectivity levels afforded by older solar tech with busbars and also provides a robust \u0026amp; durable foundation analogous to rebar in cement.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRedundancy of connectivity improves panel durability and resistance to thermomechanical stress (aka overlanding adventures).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eElimination of failure-prone aluminum busbars results in a more robust and longer-lasting solar panel compared to the more widely available portable solar panels distributed by big-box outdoor stores and Amazon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSolarHawk Rover 100W Solar Panel FAQs\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs a charge controller needed? Can I use solar panels with a 12V dual battery system?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes and Yes. If you don't already have a house battery wired up to accept solar input, then yes, you'll want a charge controller, deep cycle battery and either to do a lot of research and educate yourself on vehicle electrical systems and wiring, or to enlist the services of our talented Build Engineers at Rhino Adventure Gear to put together and install a complete solar package for your vehicle. Full specifications of the Rover panel are provided above and can be cross referenced with the specifications of charge controllers you are considering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat can you power with a SolarHawk Rover 100W panel?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn average, when exposed to 6 hours of sunlight in a day, this 100W solar panel can deliver 570 Wh of power to a Li-ion battery. When paired with a 600 Wh capacity deep cycle battery to store the power collected by the panel, the Rover can power your favorite devices on-the-go.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are too many variables in a 12V system for us to accurately predict how long 570 Wh of power can drive your specific accessories. Remember that Wh are a unit of battery capacity and inform you how long (hours) the battery can deliver a certain amount of power (watts). For example 600 Wh could provide 60W of power for 10 hours. Or 100W of power for 6 hours. Or 6W for 100 hours.. etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a rough idea of how many Watts your 12V accessories consume in an hour of use, do some research online to figure out the power draw of your accessories in the conditions you use them. Keep in mind that the power draw of a fridge\/freezer depends on the temperature it is set to, as well as the ambient\/outdoor temperature. The formula \u003cstrong\u003eWatts = Volts x Amps\u003c\/strong\u003e may come in handy. You got this! And, when in doubt, there's always the tried and true method of experimentation to derive the answer empirically! In other words.. try it out and learn how long it lasts with your usage conditions!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur shop vehicles have a variety of set ups, but we've run a 50QT ARB Fridge freezer at 34C indefinitely and charge cell phones at night when we use the Rover 100W to power a deep cycle Li-ion battery via a Red Arc BCDC-1225D.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is Merlin? Where are they based and why haven't we heard of them?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst and foremost, Merlin Solar focuses on making rugged, high performance solar panels. We've personally visited their San Jose factory and can attest to their passion and dedication toward manufacturing outstanding solar products. Merlin's style is more to let their products speak for themselves. Consequentially they may not be as hyped up as some of the other solar panels on the market. As the overlanding community grows and the need for rugged, reliable high-performance solar grows with it, we fully expect the Merlin's quality panels to gain traction and popularity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePLEASE NOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIt is your responsibility to ensure you fully understand how solar panels will integrate with your 12V system (starter battery, aux battery, charge controller, powered appliances etc). There are nearly infinite set up options possible, certainly more than we can describe here. There are excellent educational resources about\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"12V dual battery systems and solar panels\" href=\"https:\/\/outbackjoe.com\/macho-divertissement\/macho-articles\/design-guide-for-12v-systems-dual-batteries-solar-panels-and-inverters\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e12V systems and solar panels\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eavailable online. Additional items such as a REDARC DC-DC converter, lithium aux battery, solar charge converter, or wiring connectors may be needed depending on how your setup is configured and how you intend to use it. The SolarHawk solar panel is not designed to have a phone, light, or fridge plugged directly into the panel output cable; rather it works as part of a 12V battery system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you currently only have the battery that came with your vehicle and you are looking to install solar for camping, please\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Contact Rhino Adventure Gear\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/pages\/contact-us\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ereach out\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand we can discuss installation services for an all-inclusive 12V system package\/solar-ready dual battery setup.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with all Rhino Adventure Gear products, we offer installation at either of our\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Rhino Adventure Gear Shop Locations\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/pages\/rhino-adventure-gear-showroom\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etwo California shops\u003c\/a\u003e- located in San Marcos (San Diego County) \u0026amp; Fremont (San Francisco Bay area).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merlin Solar","offers":[{"title":"100W","offer_id":39993615450230,"sku":"MS-PAN-P0420BHTO","price":445.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/files\/s-l1600.webp?v=1722881989"},{"product_id":"solarhawk-s2-100w-folding-solar-panel-bxd200","title":"SOLARHAWK Rover 200W Portable Solar Panel - BXD200","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt might be tempting to believe there is sorcery going on at Merlin Solar, given how rugged and efficient the SolarHawk Rover Portable Solar Panels are. But in fact, these heavy duty portable solar panels are the product of good, old-fashioned American research \u0026amp; development. SolarHawk Rover panels are mil-grade and optimized for maximum performance in scattered light \u0026amp; extreme weather conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis SolarHawk Rover Solar Panels is a 200W foldable solar panel that is ideally suited to off-road camping adventures due to the glass-free and busbar-free PV cell design. The solar panels are made with redundant PV cell connectivity, which allows them to withstand physical and thermal extremes (aka overlanding).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SolarHawk Rover panels are foldable, compacting down to the size of slim briefcase. Lightweight and thin, they are easy to stow, even in a fully packed overland rig. Legs to position the panels at an angle to the sun are integrated into backing and include eyelets for anchoring in high wind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're looking to explore beyond the convenient powered campsites, or simply needing to provide solar power to your fridge and 12V accessories, the SolarHawk Rover 200W portable solar panel is a practical, reliable solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSolarHawk Rover 200W Portable Solar Panel Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIndustry leading power output\u003c\/strong\u003e- Mono cSi cells optimized for maximum performance in scattered light \u0026amp; extreme weather conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDesigned and engineered in the USA\u003c\/strong\u003e- Fully-integrated, patented MERLIN® technology. Deployed worldwide to extreme environments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRedundancy by design\u003c\/strong\u003e- Robust module integrity and performance under extreme conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRugged and Durable-\u003c\/strong\u003e Military grade design, materials, and approvals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEmergency power anywhere\u003c\/strong\u003e- Light weight, portable power on board means being ready to handle emergency conditions with increased reliability and increased power availability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoldable and Portable\u003c\/strong\u003e- Easy-pack solar panel includes ergonomic handle, built-in legs for each tri-fold section, pockets for cables, and Velcro closure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Install \u0026amp; Setup-\u003c\/strong\u003e Simple plug and play solar module and compatible with most charge controller brands. Scalable with multiple modules to enable larger system.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSolarHawk Rover 200W Performance vs Other Portable Solar Panels\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e80% Lighter than Glass Panels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e50X More Durable than Bus-Bar Technology\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e20% More Energy in Real World Conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2.5X Power Density than Thin Film Technology\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSolarHawk Rover 200W Portable Solar Panel Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhysical Specifications of Solar Panel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions (Folded):\u003c\/strong\u003e 29\" (L) x 23\" (W) x 2\" (D)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions (Unfolded):\u003c\/strong\u003e 76\" (L) x 29\" x 0.5\" (D)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight: \u003c\/strong\u003e19lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCord:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5.5 ft, 8AWG\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConnector:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gray Anderson SB50\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSolar Panel Electric Specifications \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCell Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mono-crystalline\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of Cells\u003c\/strong\u003e: 72\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRated Power (PMax): \u003c\/strong\u003e200W\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVoltage at PMax (Vmp): \u003c\/strong\u003e19.91V\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCurrent at PMax (Imp): \u003c\/strong\u003e10.34A\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOpen Circuit Voltage (Voc):\u003c\/strong\u003e 26.45V\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShort Circuit Current (Isc): \u003c\/strong\u003e11.56A\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eActive Area Efficiency: \u003c\/strong\u003e22.45%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemp Coefficient of Isc: \u003c\/strong\u003e0.05% \/ °C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemp Coefficient of Voc: \u003c\/strong\u003e-0.33% \/ °C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemp Coefficient of PMax: \u003c\/strong\u003e-0.42% \/ °C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOperating Temperature: \u003c\/strong\u003e-40 to +85 °C (-40 to +185F)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArchitecture of Merlin Photovoltaic Cells\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e200W monocrystalline array (72 arrayed cells)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMerlin's patented grid technology dwarfs conventional connectivity levels afforded by older solar tech with busbars and also provides a robust \u0026amp; durable foundation analogous to rebar in cement.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRedundancy of connectivity improves panel durability and resistance to thermomechanical stress (aka overlanding adventures).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eElimination of failure-prone aluminum busbars results in a more robust and longer-lasting solar panel compared to the more widely available portable solar panels distributed by big-box outdoor stores and Amazon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSolarHawk Rover 200W Solar Panel FAQs\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs a charge controller needed? Can I use solar panels with a 12V dual battery system?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes and Yes. If you don't already have a house battery wired up to accept solar input, then yes, you'll want a charge controller, deep cycle battery and either to do a lot of research and educate yourself on vehicle electrical systems and wiring, or to enlist the services of our talented Build Engineers at Rhino Adventure Gear to put together and install a complete solar package for your vehicle. Full specifications of the Rover panel are provided above and can be cross-referenced with the specifications of charge controllers you are considering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat can you power with a SolarHawk Rover panel?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn average, when exposed to 6 hours of sunlight in a day, this 200W solar panel can deliver 1,140 Wh of power to a Li-ion battery. When paired with a 1000 Wh capacity deep cycle battery to store the power collected by the panel, the Rover can power your favorite devices on-the-go.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are too many variables in a 12V system for us to accurately predict how long 1,140 Wh of power can drive your specific accessories. Remember that Wh are a unit of battery capacity and inform you how long (hours) the battery can deliver a certain amount of power (watts). For example 600 Wh could provide 60W of power for 10 hours. Or 100W of power for 6 hours. Or 6W for 100 hours.. etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a rough idea of how many Watts your 12V accessories consume in an hour of use, do some research online to figure out the power draw of your accessories in the conditions you use them. Keep in mind that the power draw of a fridge\/freezer depends on the temperature it is set to, as well as the ambient\/outdoor temperature. The formula \u003cstrong\u003eWatts = Volts x Amps\u003c\/strong\u003e may come in handy. You got this! And, when in doubt, there's always the tried and true method of experimentation to derive the answer empirically! In other words.. try it out and learn how long it lasts with your usage conditions!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur shop vehicles have a variety of set ups, but we've run a 50QT ARB Fridge freezer at 34C indefinitely and charge cell phones at night when we use the Rover 100W to power a deep cycle Li-ion battery via a Red Arc BCDC-1225D.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is Merlin? Where are they based and why haven't we heard of them?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst and foremost, Merlin Solar focuses on making rugged, high performance solar panels. We've personally visited their San Jose factory and can attest to their passion and dedication toward manufacturing outstanding solar products. Merlin's style is more to let their products speak for themselves. Consequentially they may not be as hyped up as some of the other solar panels on the market. As the overlanding community grows and the need for rugged, reliable high-performance solar grows with it, we fully expect the Merlin's quality panels to gain traction and popularity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePLEASE NOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e It is your responsibility to ensure you fully understand how solar panels will integrate with your 12V system (starter battery, aux battery, charge controller, powered appliances etc). There are nearly infinite set up options possible, certainly more than we can describe here. There are excellent educational resources about \u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"12V dual battery systems and solar panels\" href=\"https:\/\/outbackjoe.com\/macho-divertissement\/macho-articles\/design-guide-for-12v-systems-dual-batteries-solar-panels-and-inverters\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/outbackjoe.com\/macho-divertissement\/macho-articles\/design-guide-for-12v-systems-dual-batteries-solar-panels-and-inverters\/\"\u003e12V systems and solar panels\u003c\/a\u003e available online. Additional items such as a REDARC DC-DC converter, lithium aux battery, solar charge converter, or wiring connectors may be needed depending on how your setup is configured and how you intend to use it. The SolarHawk Rover solar panel is not designed to have a phone, light, or fridge plugged directly into the panel output cable; rather it works as part of a 12V battery system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you currently only have the battery that came with your vehicle and you are looking to install solar for camping, please \u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Contact Rhino Adventure Gear\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/pages\/contact-us\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/pages\/contact-us\"\u003ereach out\u003c\/a\u003e and we can discuss installation services for an all-inclusive 12V system package\/solar-ready dual battery setup.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with all Rhino Adventure Gear products, we offer installation at either of our \u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Rhino Adventure Gear Shop Locations\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/pages\/rhino-adventure-gear-showroom\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/pages\/rhino-adventure-gear-showroom\"\u003etwo California shops\u003c\/a\u003e- located in San Marcos (San Diego County) \u0026amp; Fremont (San Francisco Bay area).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merlin Solar","offers":[{"title":"200W","offer_id":41513589932150,"sku":"MS-PAN-P0720BHTO","price":745.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/files\/IMG_7422_2048x_cae84c15-7945-4629-ba54-887965843ebf.webp?v=1722880976"},{"product_id":"merlin-solar-mppt-solar-charge-controller-30a","title":"MERLIN SOLAR MPPT Solar Charge Controller (30A)","description":"\u003cp\u003eSolar charge controllers dynamically modulate the power output from solar panels to appropriately charge the connected battery. MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar charge controllers are 'smart' electronic DC-DC adaptors that optimize amp delivery from the solar panels to the connected battery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe strongly recommend that you carefully review the Technical Specifications chart below, and have a thorough understanding of how this Merlin MPPT charge controller will interact with the other components of your solar set up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMerlin Solar MPPT 30A Solar Charge Controller Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e30A Max Current\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh quality components\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlexible working environment temperature range (-40C to +60C)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with lead-acid battery, lithium battery, and many others\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLithium battery self-activating and low temperature protection function\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaximum conversion efficiency of 98%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtensive electronic protection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRS485 waterproof interface can provide power supply\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnecting the IOT (Internet of Things) module\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIP68 waterproof degree\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluminum housing for better cooling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Merlin Solar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41879686512758,"sku":"MS-MST-TS30","price":155.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/products\/merlin-solar-15a-mppt-solar-charge-controller.jpg?v=1594965746"},{"product_id":"merlin-solar-sunrise-srs100-solar-100w-rigid-panels","title":"MERLIN SOLAR Sunrise SRS100 Solar 100W Rigid Panels","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"124\" data-end=\"200\"\u003eMerlin Solar SRS100 Rigid Panels\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"202\" data-end=\"462\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"206\" data-end=\"229\"\u003eMerlin Solar SRS100\u003c\/strong\u003e panels are engineered specifically for Airstream travel trailers with curved roofs, however can be adapted to many other surfaces including Camper Shells and RTTs. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"464\" data-end=\"696\"\u003eAt only \u003cstrong data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"514\"\u003e¾\" thick (including mounting brackets)\u003c\/strong\u003e, the SRS100 offers one of the lowest profiles available. This slim design reduces wind drag and minimizes uplift forces on the brackets—something bulkier rigid panels can’t match.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"698\" data-end=\"907\"\u003eThe SRS100 connects via the standard SAE connector. For those who prefer, the connector can be swapped for Anderson SB50 to integrate with other solar setups as an option through checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"909\" data-end=\"1011\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"911\" data-end=\"1011\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"911\" data-end=\"920\"\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mounting feet are sold separately. [Purchase the Merlin Solar SRS100 Mounting Kit here.]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1013\" data-end=\"1016\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1018\" data-end=\"1041\"\u003eWhy Merlin Solar?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1042\" data-end=\"1363\"\u003eMerlin Solar is known for pushing boundaries. Their panels have been successfully deployed in some of the world’s harshest environments—\u003cstrong data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1361\"\u003efrom space to war zones, Norwegian fjords to Class 8 trucks, RVs, disaster recovery vehicles, autonomous ocean drones, oil \u0026amp; gas storage tanks, and even tensioned fabric canopies.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1365\" data-end=\"1452\"\u003eTheir mantra says it best:\u003cbr data-start=\"1391\" data-end=\"1394\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1394\" data-end=\"1450\"\u003e“To boldly go where no solar panel has gone before.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merlin Solar","offers":[{"title":"SAE","offer_id":42482975408246,"sku":"MS-SRS100","price":365.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Anderson SB50","offer_id":42482975441014,"sku":"MS-SRS100SB50","price":385.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/files\/MERLIN-SRS100_Merlin_Solar_Sunrise_SRS100_Solar_Panels_for_Airstream_RVs.png?v=1770747783"},{"product_id":"merlin-solar-mounting-feet-for-sunrise-srs100-solar-100w-rigid-panels","title":"MERLIN SOLAR Mounting Brackets for Sunrise SRS100 Solar 100W Rigid Panels","description":"\u003ch3 data-end=\"200\" data-start=\"124\"\u003eMerlin Solar Mounting Brackets for SRS100 Rigid Panels\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"462\" data-start=\"202\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMounting brackets are sold as \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eindividual units\u003c\/span\u003e. Each SRS100 Panel \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003erequires 4 brackets\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e The 15mm Brackets are perfect for a low profile install, while the 40mm Brackets are great as offsets on one side of the panel if you are installing on a curved surface (similar to an Airstream or some teardrop trailers).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"462\" data-start=\"202\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf ordering for an Airstream trailer with a curved roof, you will likely need to purchase (2) 15mm and (2) 40mm brackets. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1041\" data-start=\"1018\"\u003eWhy Merlin Solar?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1363\" data-start=\"1042\"\u003eMerlin Solar is known for pushing boundaries. Their panels have been successfully deployed in some of the world’s harshest environments—\u003cstrong data-end=\"1361\" data-start=\"1178\"\u003efrom space to war zones, Norwegian fjords to Class 8 trucks, RVs, disaster recovery vehicles, autonomous ocean drones, oil \u0026amp; gas storage tanks, and even tensioned fabric canopies.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1452\" data-start=\"1365\"\u003eTheir mantra says it best:\u003cbr data-end=\"1394\" data-start=\"1391\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1450\" data-start=\"1394\"\u003e“To boldly go where no solar panel has gone before.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merlin Solar","offers":[{"title":"15mm","offer_id":42483070795894,"sku":"MS-FTSW310","price":8.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"40mm","offer_id":42483070828662,"sku":"MS-FTSW322","price":9.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1651\/4647\/files\/Screenshot_2025-08-18_124553.png?v=1770747783"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.rhinoadventuregear.com\/collections\/merlin-solar.oembed","provider":"Rhino Adventure Gear ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}