1. What is Portable Capacity?

Portable capacity (measured in ampere-hours, Ah) determines how long a portable solar battery backup can power a device. It's calculated based on the device's power requirements, desired runtime, and battery voltage.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the portable capacity equation:

Where:

• Portable Device Power — Power consumption of your device in watts
• Runtime — Desired operating time in hours
• Voltage — Battery system voltage in volts

Explanation: The equation converts watt-hours to ampere-hours by accounting for the system voltage.

3. Importance of Capacity Calculation

Details: Proper capacity calculation ensures your solar battery backup can adequately power devices for the required duration, preventing power shortages during critical times.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter device power in watts, desired runtime in hours, and battery voltage in volts. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is voltage important in capacity calculation?
A: Voltage determines how the energy (watt-hours) is distributed in ampere-hours. Higher voltage systems require fewer ampere-hours for the same energy capacity.

Q2: What are typical voltages for portable solar systems?
A: Common voltages include 12V, 24V, or 48V for solar systems. Smaller portable devices might use 3.7V, 5V, or 9V.

Q3: Should I add a safety margin to the calculated capacity?
A: Yes, it's recommended to add 20-30% extra capacity to account for battery aging, inefficiencies, and unexpected power needs.

Q4: How does temperature affect battery capacity?
A: Cold temperatures can reduce usable capacity by 20-50% for many battery types, while high temperatures can shorten battery lifespan.

Q5: Can I use this for lithium-ion batteries?
A: Yes, the calculation works for any battery chemistry, but be aware lithium batteries often have different discharge characteristics than lead-acid.