DOKIO Solar Panel Bracket Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The DOKIO Solar Panel Bracket is designed to provide stable and adjustable support for DOKIO FFSP series flexible folding solar panels. This bracket allows you to optimize the angle of your solar panel to absorb maximum sunlight, enhancing charging efficiency. It is constructed from durable iron, featuring a space-saving design and sturdy screws for reliable performance in various outdoor environments.

Image: DOKIO Solar Panel Bracket (main product image)

Key Features:

• Adjustable Angle: Allows for optimal solar absorption.
• Durable Construction: Made from rugged iron for high wind resistance.
• Space-Saving Design: Foldable for easy storage and transport.
• Secure Locking: Features sturdy screws and an Allen key for clockwise locking.

Image: Diagram highlighting bracket features (space saving, sturdy screw, Allen key, durable iron)

2. Setup and Assembly

2.1 Unfolding the Bracket

1. Carefully unfold the bracket legs until they form a stable A-frame shape.
2. Locate the locking screws on the side hinges.
3. Use the provided Allen key to tighten the screws in a clockwise direction to secure the bracket in its open position.

Image: DOKIO Solar Panel Bracket unfolded

Image: Close-up of clockwise locking mechanism

2.2 Attaching the Solar Panel

Place your DOKIO FFSP series flexible folding solar panel onto the unfolded brackets. Ensure the panel rests securely on the support arms of the bracket. The bracket is designed to hold the solar panel at an optimal angle for sun exposure.

Image: Solar panel on bracket in grass

2.3 Solar Panel Connection (with Controller)

This section outlines the general connection steps for DOKIO flexible foldable solar panels with a controller. Always connect in strict accordance with the specified order to prevent damage to the controller. The disassembly sequence is the opposite of the wiring sequence.

Safety Instructions for Controller Use:

• Ensure your battery has sufficient voltage for the controller to recognize its type before initial installation.
• Keep the battery cable as short as possible to minimize power loss.
• The regulator is compatible only with 12V lead-acid, lithium-ion, and LiFePO4 batteries.
• The charge regulator is exclusively for regulating solar modules. Do not connect any other charging source to the regulator.

Connection Steps:

1. Step 1: Connect the Solar Panel to the Controller
   Connect the solar panel output to the designated solar panel input terminals on the controller.
2. Step 2: Connect the Controller to the Device
   If using a USB device (less than 5V), connect it to the USB output port on the controller.
3. Step 3: Connect the Controller to the Battery
   Connect the controller's battery terminals to your battery.
4. Step 4: Connect the Battery to the Inverter (if applicable)
   If using an inverter, ensure its input voltage matches the battery voltage.
5. Step 5: Connect the Controller to the Bulb (if applicable)
   For 12V light connections, connect directly to the controller's load output. If connecting 12V electrical appliances, connect the power to the controller first to start it via the weak power on the battery.

Image: Connection Diagram of Flexible Foldable Solar Panel (showing solar panel, controller, battery, inverter, light bulb, and device connections)

Detailed Connection Methods:

Method 1: For Power Stations (with built-in inverter)

Image: Connection Method 1 of Solar Panels (showing connections to a power station via various adapters)

Method 2: For 12V Batteries (LA/Gel/AGM/RV/Car Battery)

Image: Connection Method 2 of Solar Panels (showing connections to a 12V battery via crocodile clips)

2.4 Series and Parallel Connection of Solar Panels

When connecting multiple solar panels, observe the following guidelines:

Series Connection:

• Select solar panels with uniform current. If panels with different currents are connected in series, the total current will be limited by the panel with the lowest current.
• Example: An 18V 5A solar panel connected in series with an 18V 4A solar panel will result in a total voltage of 36V and a current of 4A.

Image: Schematic Diagram of Glass Panels in Series

Parallel Connection:

• Ensure all solar panels have the same voltage. The total current will be the sum of individual panel currents.
• Example: Two 100W solar panels (each 5.56A) connected in parallel will yield a total current of 11.12A. A 20A controller is recommended for this setup.
• When using more solar panels in parallel, select a controller appropriate for the total solar panel current.

Image: Parallel Connection Diagram of Glass Panels

Video Guide: Bracket Setup and Solar Panel Placement

3. Operation

3.1 Adjusting the Angle

The DOKIO Solar Panel Bracket features an adjustable kickstand, allowing you to find the perfect angle (up to 90 degrees) to absorb maximum sunlight. This adjustment helps optimize the solar panel's performance throughout the day or in different seasons.

Image: Adjustable kickstand with 90-degree angle illustration

3.2 Correct Test Method for Solar Panel Output

To accurately test the voltage and current of your solar panel, follow these precautions:

1. Preparation: Disconnect all loads from the controller before testing.
2. Conditions: Conduct the test under good midday sunlight. Ensure the panel is tiled and the sun is perpendicular to the panel at 90 degrees. Allow 5-8 minutes for the panel to stabilize before testing.
3. Environment: Ensure there are no obstructions (e.g., figures, branches, other equipment) casting shadows on the panel during the test. Wires should not be placed on the panel surface.

Image: Diagram illustrating the correct test method for solar panels

3.3 LCD Display and Key Functions (Controller)

The controller features a large LCD display and several keys for monitoring and setting parameters.

Display Area:

• Battery Voltage: Shows current battery voltage.
• Battery Capacity: Indicates the charge level of the battery.
• Charging/Discharging Status: Icons show if the battery is charging or discharging.
• Temperature: Displays the controller's body temperature.
• Amperage: Shows charging and discharging current.
• Load Symbol: Indicates load status.

Key Functions:

• MENU: Short press to switch between displays; long press to enter/exit settings.
• UP: Increase value in settings.
• DOWN: Decrease value in settings.

4. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the solar panel surface with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and debris that may reduce efficiency.
• Bracket Inspection: Periodically check the bracket for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Ensure all screws and connections are tight.
• Storage: When not in use, fold the bracket and store it in a cool, dry place. While the materials are waterproof and moisture-proof, prolonged soaking, especially in saltwater or chemicals, should be avoided to prevent decay.
• Heat Dissipation: For flexible solar panels, ensure adequate heat dissipation, especially when used on surfaces like car roofs. Proper ventilation is crucial.

5. Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Q: Why is the controller not showing charging when I connect the solar panel?

A: Check that the solar panel wires are connected correctly and not reversed. The PV voltage should be higher than the battery voltage. Dirt or shadows on the PV panel can cause voltage drops. For a 12V battery, use an 18V PV panel under normal circumstances.

Q: Why is my charging current very small?

A: Using more solar panels and stronger sunlight will increase the charging current. Incorrect PV voltage, dirt, or shadows on the panel will reduce current. When the battery voltage is high, it enters float charging mode, and the charging current naturally becomes smaller.

Q: Why is my load (consumer) off?

A: This could be due to an incorrect working mode setting (e.g., D2D mode during daytime), insufficient battery charge leading to a low-voltage disconnect (LVD), or a faulty load. To check the load, connect it directly to the battery. Verify all wiring connections.

Q: The solar power stored is not enough to supply the load?

A: If the power generated by the solar panel is less than the power consumed by the load, the load will draw from battery storage. Over time, this will lead to an LVD. Consider using more solar panels or increasing battery capacity to compensate for cloudy/rainy days, or reduce the load's wattage or operating time.

Q: Why does my battery run out of power quickly after being fully charged?

A: Your battery may be old or dying. After many charge/discharge cycles, batteries lose capacity. A quick test: if the voltage rises very fast during charging and drops very fast during discharging, it indicates the battery needs replacement.

6. Specifications

6.1 Bracket Specifications

• Type: Stand
• Material: Durable Iron
• Dimensions: 23cm (9 inch) Width x 68.5cm (27 inch) Length
• Weight: Approximately 0.9 kg (2 lb) per piece

Image: Bracket dimensions (23cm width, 68.5cm length, 2lb/pc weight)

6.2 Applicable Solar Panel Models & Recommended Brackets

• FFSP-80M: 2 brackets (1 Set)
• FFSP-110M: 2 brackets (1 Set)
• FFSP-160M: 4 brackets (2 Sets)
• FFSP-200M: 4 brackets (2 Sets)

6.3 Controller Technical Parameters (General)

Note: All red color voltage values should be multiplied by X2 or X4 when using 24V/48V systems. Product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

7. User Tips

• Bracket Dimensions: While the bracket dimensions are provided, please note that due to mass production, slight variations may occur. If precise dimensions are critical, please contact customer service before purchase.
• Optimal Sun Exposure: Always adjust the bracket to ensure the solar panel is perpendicular to the sun's rays for maximum efficiency.
• Check for Damage: Upon receiving your brackets, inspect them for any damage that may have occurred during transportation. If damaged, contact customer service immediately for assistance.

8. Warranty and Support

DOKIO products are manufactured by Jinhua Dongqiu Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a company specializing in solar panel production and processing since January 2007. Our products are certified with IS09001 international certification and German Rhine certification, ensuring quality.

Contact Information:

• E-mail: info@dokiosolar.com
• Alternative E-mail: 465545135@qq.com
• Facebook: 15857981188
• Address: 1189 Meihe Road, Qiubin Industrial Zone, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China, Zip Code: 321000