My Second Solar Node Attempt

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Aaron Bull Schaefer

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May 29, 2025, 12:41:14 PMMay 29

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I just completed a more robust solar node using a weatherproof junction box. It's got two 18650 Li-ion batteries and a 5W solar panel hooked up through a DC buck converter to ensure the proper 5V output to the RAK4631 board.

I'll be testing this one outside for a bit to ensure it can maintain a charge, but the batteries alone should keep it alive for at least a few weeks without any problems...it's MUCH more efficient than the Heltec's ESP32 chip. Can't wait to find a good location for its permanent deployment!

I'm going to compile a parts list spreadsheet with details for my various builds to track costs and any adjustments I make for nodes moving forward. I'll send a link out to the group once I've got the initial details filled out. Let me know if you have any questions.

Aaron

howler-01-with-panel.webp

howler-01-detailed.webp

howler-01-testing.webp

Aaron Bull Schaefer

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Jun 30, 2025, 12:27:18 PMJun 30

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Hey all,

This node finally got permanently deployed yesterday up on Dishman Hills. It should have a pretty good range to the north. Let me know if you see it show up as a neighbor to any of your nodes!

I've also been chatting with a homeowner up on tower mountain as well, so I'm hoping to get a node deployed up there soon.