ATL4500 Time Lapse Camera: Solar Power Solutions
Oct, 2024 5 min read
For those preparing to set up a solar power system for their ATL4500 time lapse camera, this guide will walk you through the necessary components, provide reference figures, and offer crucial installation tips.
*It is a typical topology diagram for deploying an ATL4500 camera in an off-grid environment.
Essential Components for Your Solar Power System
In previous discussions over ATL3500, we outlined the essential components required for a long-term solar power system:
- 1. Solar Panel: Captures solar energy.
- 2. Solar Charge Controller: Regulates the charge to prevent overcharging and potential damage.
- 3. 12V Rechargeable Battery: Stores energy for use during night time or on cloudy/ rainy days.
Power Consumption Analysis
Given that the ATL4500 does not support 4G LTE yet, some users may wish to use a portable Wi-Fi hotspot powered by the same solar panel system.
We have tested the power consumption of the ATL4500 under conditions of frequent shooting (5-second intervals) for 12 hours daily, with remote access and cloud synchronization enabled.
In conclusion, here are the recommended components for building an effective solar power system for your ATL4500 time lapse camera:
| Â | ATL4500 only | ATL4500 & Mobile Wi-Fi Router |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Power Consumption | 70WH | 90WH |
| SolarPanel Size | 12V / 50W | 12V / 60W |
| Battery Capacity | 12V 30Ah | 12V 40Ah |
| Running time with very low daylight | 8 days | 8 days |
Key Considerations for Maintaining Your Solar Panel System
Drawing from extensive experience in solar panel system installation, here are four crucial 5 tips to keep your solar panel system running smoothly.
1. Stability and Security of the Installation Area
Ensure that the installation site for the solar panel and camera is secure and stable. Avoid locations susceptible to vandalism or extreme weather conditions.
2. Solar Panel Placement
Position the solar panel to maximize exposure to sunlight throughout the day. This is crucial for optimizing energy capture and storage. If you want to maximize the exposure, adjust the solar panel’s direction and tilt angle based on the online calculator below:
3. Weatherproofing All Components
Ensure that all components, including the solar panel, charge controller, and battery, are weatherproof to protect against rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
An alternative option is to place them in a weatherproof box for added protection.
4. Regular Maintenance
Conduct routine checks and maintenance to ensure all components are functioning correctly.
Clean the surface of the solar panel to remove dust, debris or snow, which can hinder efficiency. This is especially important as winter approaches, since snow may cover the panel and block sunlight.
We welcome discussions with our customers to explore any unexpected challenges that may arise in different scenarios.
