Summary:
The article provides guidelines for charging and optimizing the use of the SK Solar Panel with the SK camera's LiPo battery pack. The battery must be removed from the camera for charging, using a USB-C charger and a 5V block, taking about 3 hours to fully charge. The SK Solar Panel supplies a trickle charge when exposed to direct sunlight but has no internal battery and outputs around 5 volts in full sun. It is designed only for the LiPo pack and not other batteries. Optimal placement involves positioning the solar panel facing South and the camera facing North to maximize efficiency and reduce false triggers. The battery percentage may not always show 100% due to the continuous solar charge.
Charging Your LiPo Battery Pack
The LiPo battery pack must be removed from the camera for charging.
- Remove the LiPo pack from your SK camera.
- Connect the LiPo pack to a USB-C charger and a 5V charging block.
- Important: Do not attempt to charge the pack while it's inside the camera. Using a rapid charging block or a computer to charge the pack will prevent it from charging correctly.
- A solid red light on the battery pack indicates successful charging.
- The light will turn off when charging is complete. A full charge takes approximately 3 hours.
Once fully charged, the SK LiPo battery should read 8.36V.
Understanding the SK Solar Panel
The SK Solar Panel is designed to provide a "trickle charge" to your LiPo battery pack when exposed to direct sunlight.
- No Built-in Battery: The SK Solar Panel does not have its own internal battery. It charges the LiPo battery pack that comes with your SK camera.
- Voltage Output: In full sun, the SK Solar Panel outputs approximately 5 volts. In partial sun, the voltage output will be lower, and it may not be sufficient to charge the battery.
- Compatibility: The SK Solar Panel is specifically designed for the LiPo pack and will not charge other rechargeable batteries used in X, XB, or other SK models.
- Secure Connection: Always ensure the SK Solar Panel cable is fully seated into the LiPo pack. The rubber boot on the cable helps to keep moisture out.
Optimizing Solar Panel Placement
Proper placement of your solar panel and camera is crucial for maximizing charging efficiency and preventing false triggers.
- Solar Panel Orientation: For optimal sunlight exposure, position the solar panel facing South.
- Camera Orientation: To minimize glare and shadows that can cause false triggers, set up your camera facing North.
Battery Percentage Readings
Don't be alarmed if your battery report doesn't always show 100% after a period of solar charging. The solar panel provides a continuous charge in direct sunlight, maintaining your battery's power.
Since the LiPo is an internal battery, its battery percentage will be displayed in the app and via the setup mode lights on the camera.