Section 3. ET Instrumentation Installation

3.1.2 Solar Panel Installation

FIGURE 3.1-3. Solar Panel Mounting

a)Mount the solar panel to the tower using the mounting brackets as shown in Figure 3.1-3. Mount the solar panel to the tower so it faces south (northern hemisphere). Position it as high off the ground as practical, ensuring it cannot interfere with air flow or sunlight around the sensors. The solar panel should be oriented to receive maximum insolation over the course of the year. Suggested tilt angles (referenced to the horizontal plane) are listed below.

Site Latitude

Tilt Angle

0 to 10 degrees

10 degrees

11 to 20

Latitude + 5 degrees

21 to 45

Latitude + 10 degrees

46 to 65

Latitude + 15 degrees

>65

80 degrees

b)After determining the tilt angle, loosen the two bolts that attach the mounting bracket to the panel. Adjust the angle, then tighten the bolts. Secure the lead wire to the mast using wire ties. Make electrical connections as described in 2b above.

3.1.3AC Power Installation

a)The AC power option includes a 120 VAC to 16 VAC. The transformer should be mounted inside a user-supplied junction box according to local electrical codes. Dangerous electrical accidents may be avoided by locating the transformer remotely and burying a low voltage line to the station. The low voltage will carry up to 500 feet on an 18 AWG power cable.

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