System Manual

EkoTek System Installation and Configuration Manual
9261-8173 issue: 8 Page 28
© 2012 Multitone Electronics Plc
4. Installing the solar repeater
Solar repeater positioning
The repeater should generally be sited with the solar panel facing the sun at its
zenith. It must have at average of at least 30 minutes a day of sunlight shining
on the solar panel even in the winter months (note: that snow and ice covering
the repeater for long periods may cause problems). The normal annual
maximum and minimum temperatures must be within the range -20ºC to
+35ºC, although brief periods outside this range will probably not result in
failure.
Solar insolation (solar radiation received at the earth's surface) maps can be
used to help determine an area’s suitability. Near the equator, temperature
may be more important than hours of sunshine and facing the solar repeater
east so that the unit is not in direct sunlight in the hottest part of the day may be
best.
The repeater should be sited so that there are no obstructions causing the solar
panel to be shielded from the sun at any time during the year. For example, in
London, England (latitude 51.5ºN) the sun only reaches 15º above the horizon
on the shortest day of the year, so the ideal location will be facing south with no
obstruction more than 15º above the horizon.
Use of a compass is recommended.
The solar repeater comes with the batteries pre-installed and must be mounted
in a vertical position since the unit has been designed to be switched off when
lying on its side.
The solar repeater is distributed with two fixing kits, one designed for wall
mounting and one designed for pole mounting.