Charging a Helix battery with a Solar panel

  • Kevin Cegielski
    Posts: 78
    August 31, 2018 at 6:41 pm #1794802

    Hi everyone.

    I just got back from a “very off the grid” Ontario fly-in fishing adventure. Prior to leaving I bought a Humminbird Helix 7 GPS DI G2, and made it into a portable pack. I have a 10AH battery that fits in the case. Problem is, the Helix kills the battery in 9-10 hours of use. There was no generator, or power source to charge the small battery. The boats did not have batteries. The cabin was a 12 volt solar system. I’d like to make up a solar panel to charge an extra small battery. Thoughts anyone?

    THanks!!

    tominblaine
    Posts: 116
    August 31, 2018 at 7:49 pm #1794813

    I would check out Harbor Freight, they have various sized solar panels.

    Tom

    Kevin Cegielski
    Posts: 78
    August 31, 2018 at 9:31 pm #1794833

    Tom, Just checked. They only have 2 available, and it would take 25 hours to charge a 10AH battery on the ones they have. think I need more power, but I’m not an electrical guy so I’m not sure. I know I need a controller also, so the battery doesn’t get over-charged if it sits on the dock charging too long. Thoughts guys?

    Ron
    Victoria, mn
    Posts: 810
    August 31, 2018 at 10:08 pm #1794839

    Hook your spare battery to the cabin’s battery. A couple of clamps and some wire is all you need. It’ll charge all day while you’re out fishing.

    Kevin Cegielski
    Posts: 78
    September 2, 2018 at 9:52 pm #1795076

    That should work. Should I wire in a controller between the cabin battery and mine to avoid over-charging? I’m not an electrical wiz. Thanks guys.

    Ron
    Victoria, mn
    Posts: 810
    September 2, 2018 at 9:55 pm #1795077

    The cabin’s 12-volt system already has a controller.

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