This is the step-by-step instructional video on how to build a portable solar power supply in an ammo can. CLICK SHOW MORE for parts list and other details!
For the quick project overview video, please see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NIzIR_Lbkw
You can see a written version of this project, including wiring diagram, at: https://www.instructables.com/id/Ammo-Can-Solar-Power-Supply/
For an alternate way of wiring it up with a main disconnect switch, please see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YKRa9m4N7M
Lithium Update!: https://youtu.be/bQCJFK-Yzb0
Components for this project are available at: https://www.amazon.com/shop/benjaminnelson
Laser-cut faceplates for this project are now available for sale! Please visit: https://300mpg.org/shop/ to purchase.
This project is equivalent to a Goal Zero Yeti 150, but at half the cost! http://amzn.to/2FuLbTD
This project is essentially a battery inside a sturdy box with a handle. I choose an 50 caliber plastic ammo can, as I've found them to be very handy as tool boxes and storage containers. Ammo cans stack nicely, carry easily, and have a weathertight gasket seal.
In the past, many of my projects made use of "Unique Parts" (such as bulletproof glass pulled out of a dumpster!) In this case, I wanted to made use of as many "off-the-shelf" parts as possible. For one thing, it makes it very easy for OTHER people to also make their version of the same project.
In this case, I happened to purchase most of the components from a major online retailer. If you'd like to do the same, I've provided links to the items I used.
For this project, we will need:
Ammo Can, 50 cal.
I really like the MTM brand. Nice boxes, made in the U.S.A. Available in multiple colors. Black and green are both classic, but you might want high visibility orange if you intend to use this as emergency equipment.
http://amzn.to/2FI8lFw
Sealed Lead Acid Battery, 15AH capacity.
I specifically chose a particular physical size, as it fits perfectly inside the MTM Ammo can. It's also a relatively small battery, which keeps the project weight to right around only ten pounds. I used a "Mighty Max" brand battery.
http://amzn.to/2FBmroN
UPDATE! LITHIUM BATTERY!
Ampere Time 12AH lithium: https://amzn.to/3GyP1HJ
Video about it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQCJFK-Yzb0
20A Solar Charge Controller
http://amzn.to/2FAJyjo
Four In One Socket Panel
This is a device typically sold for trucks to add a 12V cigarette lighter outlet, USB ports, a voltmeter, and a switch to turn it all on and off. They are available in several shapes sizes and colors.
https://amzn.to/2Lu7BHP
Banana Jacks
These are used as universal electrical inputs and outputs on the project. This project uses two pairs, but since I knew I'm be using more in the future, I bought a box of 10.
http://amzn.to/2FMDK9I
12 AWG stranded wire in both black and red
(From local hardware store)
Crimp on electrical terminals, spade and 1/4" ring terminal
Silicone adhesive or hot glue
Industrial type hook and loop fastener (Velcro)
http://amzn.to/2FMDK9I
Wire Nuts or Wago (Brand) Lever Lock Nuts.
http://amzn.to/2FBj15k
Fuse Holder and Fuse.
http://amzn.to/2FMLmJp
6-32 and 8-32 nuts, bolts, and washers
The project also features "accessory items" that simply plug in to the Solar Ammo Can to make it as useful as possible. To start with, we will want to be able to charge the battery.
Solar Panel - a 15 watt PV Solar panel. Any 12V nominal solar panel of about 10 to 20 watts is perfect for this project.
Here's one which looks affordable, and it about the right size and style for the project.
http://amzn.to/2DlkpHw
DC Power Adapter (Wall Charger)
Any DC wall power adapter of higher than 12V (13.2, 14.4, 18) and one amp will work fine.
I already had a 18V 1.3A power adapter handy.
Here's a similar adapter.
http://amzn.to/2FMUrBS
The other items I packed into the ammo can were for lighting and AC power.
USB Gooseneck Light
These small USB lights work great. They are very simple and durable. Fantastic for camping.
http://amzn.to/2GhvQTy
100 Watt AC Power Inverter.
This device converts DC power to AC power so that you can run typical household devices from a battery. A 100 watt version is very compact and inexpensive. I already had one, which I used for this project. Here is a similar version.
http://amzn.to/2FBjGDQ
If you are not going to be using the Solar Ammo Can for a while, fully charge it up, then simply pull the positive connection at the battery, or pull the main fuse. This will prevent any energy drain while in storage.
Background music for this video was provided by:
Music by:
"Shaving Mirror" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
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