ADVENTURE MAG – July 2019

(Frankie) #1

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02 9417 5755


OUTBACK SOLAR PANELS, SATPHONE SHOP
Beam has just released a new range of leading edge solar panels for power
on-the-go and off the grid areas. These devices are made with the latest
SunPower ETFE (Ethylene TetraFluoroEthylene) technology; a high strength
polymer that makes them up to 20% more efficient than previous solar cell
generations. This is due to them being more compact, lightweight and stable
in performance. Each of the panel’s textured surface are embossed with a
striped pattern that is more durable and improves light absorbance by 5%.
All solar panels are fully certified and are tested with a 12-month peace of
mind warranty. Currently, they are available exclusively from SatPhone Shop
as part of a launch special where you can save 25% off MSRP.

The Outback 6W solar panel is great if you’re looking for something portable
you can take on the go. The four panels can easily fold up in your backpack
with no issues. It only weighs 205 grams so it’s also one of the lighter solar
panels on the market. If you need to travel light for outdoor activities such
as hiking, rock climbing or cycling, then the 6W won’t over encumber you.
The panels themselves feel very durable and are water resistant so you can
travel with it easily in rural or urban environments. Charging power is good
when there is lots of sunlight, however I did notice it will still charge slowly in
overcast weather too. Charging my Iridium GO! to full capacity took a little
under 3 hours when placing the 6W flat under full sunlight. I like that there is
2 LED’s that show how much power is being generated by the sun; and how
much sunlight is exposed to your solar panel.

With this information, I can decide whether I need to move the panel to a
different location. In the box, there are two carabiner clips where I can clip
the panel onto my bag while I charge my Iridium GO! in my pocket. The
supplied USB charging cord has 2 connectors- micro USB and lightning
adaptor attached so it will work with most portable smart devices.

The 11W is in the middle of the Outback range with slightly more light
absorbance due to its larger dimensions (330mmL x 258mmW) and slightly
faster charging. The largest solar panel in the Outback range is the Outback
20W which has double the length of the 11W when laid flat allowing for
better sunlight coverage. It is also 300 grams heavier, weighing in at 695g.
The main difference with the 20W between the others is the dual USB ports.
Free download pdf