You can construct a solar powered boombox for as little as $75 Combine a small, energy efficient digital amplifier, cheap bookshelf speakers, batteries, a small solar panel, and your MP3 player as a source. Fasten everything together, add a handle, and take it on the road! This project makes for a fun, easy solar project, that will help you learn about how solar panel, and audio systems operate. Assembly has been simplified as much as possible, with a very high quality product as the end result. Possible applications-
- iPod or Mp3 amplifier
- "Off grid" remote or cabin audiophile system
- Third world use
- Eco friendly sound system for outdoor events
- Science fair or educational project
- Jobsite radio and tool battery charger
- Laptop amplifier for music and movies
The Sonic Impact digital amplifier has been raved about by audiophiles. It has the added benefit of using less electricity than a conventional solid state amplifier, which makes the battery last longer, and the required solar panel smaller. It is capable of driving most home stereo speakers, so feel free to try it with any speakers you may have on hand. The results may surprise you! Some speakers are more efficient than others and will play louder given the same input.
*Sonic Impact fans note* A Sonic Impact amplifier ($30) will run directly off of a single Harbor Freight car charging solar panel($10-20)
without a battery. I offer no guarantees here, but in July Wisconsin sun, an unmodified SI amp was connected directly to the solar panel (a stock SINGLE Harbor Freight unit) and speakers. I did this repeatedly with no problems, other than that the music stops when clouds interfere, or the panel is shaded.
THIS MAKES A GREAT DEMONSTRATION! The reason this is remarkable is that the voltage of the panel is over the maximum the amp is supposed to take. The load presented by the amp, draws the voltage down before the amp is damaged. I have tested this extensively, but you try this at your own risk! A more powerful panel, such as the double unit we use on the DelSol will be more likely to produce enough current to damage the amp. I later
modified the amplifier to improve the bass, and it required more current than the single panel provided. Add a battery, and you have a more functional simple system. See
ELECTROVOX.COM for more info, links, and advanced systems.