# Smart Solar Power System

<table><thead><tr><th width="165">KEY</th><th width="244">VALUE</th><th>DESCRIPTION</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Product Name</strong></td><td>Smart Solar Power System</td><td></td></tr><tr><td><strong>SKU(s)</strong></td><td>SOL-SM-V102-25W</td><td>18Ah LiFePO4 battery with 25W panel</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>SOL-SM-V102-50W</td><td>18Ah LiFePO4 battery with 50W panel</td></tr></tbody></table>

## 1. Introduction and Specs

### 1.1 Overview

The Smart Solar Power System is an easy-to-install, long-lasting solar power system with integrated data logging designed for QuantAQ's MOD-X series IoT air quality sensors. The system is pre-installed onto QuantAQ's Solar Pole Mount Kit, making installation easy. The battery uses long-life LiFePO4 (LFP) cells and an integrated MPPT charge controller. Battery and Solar Panel health can be monitored from within the QuantAQ Cloud on supported systems.

An optional 5V USB converter cable allows the Smart Solar Power System to be used with older QuantAQ air quality sensors.

{% hint style="info" %}
The data transmission is not supported when using the Smart Solar Power System with older QuantAQ sensors.
{% endhint %}

### 1.2 Specifications

**Battery**

| PARAMETER                         | VALUE                                                              |
| --------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **Nominal Capacity**              | 18 Ah / 230 Wh                                                     |
| **Max Input Current**             | 10 A                                                               |
| **Cell Configuration**            | 4S 3P LFP 32700                                                    |
| **Mass**                          | 3 kg                                                               |
| **Input Connectors**              | MC4                                                                |
| **Standard Output Connector**     | M12, 4 pin                                                         |
| **Input Voltage Range**           | 14.5 V - 25 V                                                      |
| **Output Temperature Range**      | -20º - 60ºC                                                        |
| **Input Temperatute Range**       | 0º - 45ºC                                                          |
| **Standard Output Voltage Range** | 12.4 V - 14.6 V                                                    |
| **Protections**                   | Short Circuit, Over Discharge, Over Temperature, Under Temperature |
| **Certifications**                | CE, FCC, RoHS, UN 38.3                                             |

**Solar Panel**

The table below includes values for both the 25W and 50W SKUs. If different, the value for the 50W system will be listed after the "/".

| PARAMETER                   | VALUE           |
| --------------------------- | --------------- |
| Wp - Maximum Power          | 28.5 W / 56.7 W |
| Vp - Voltage at Max Power   | 17.7 V          |
| Voc - Open-Circuit Voltage  | 20.7 V          |
| Ip - Current at Max Power   | 1.53 A / 3.2 A  |
| Isc - Short-Circuit Current | 1.69 A / 3.37 A |
| Solar Cell Efficiency       | 22.8%           |
| Number of Cells             | 30              |
| Mass                        | 2 kg / 3.4 kg   |
| Connector Type              | MC4             |
| Temperature Range           | -40º - 85ºC     |

### 1.3 Certifications

Individual components of the battery assembly are certified by the battery vendor. The complete assembly is tested and certified to UN 38.3 and has a complete MSDS. The charge controller is tested and certified to EC62109, IEC62509, and CE. The LFP cells are tested and certified to UL1642.

### 1.4 Instrument Overview

**System Overview**

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2FKCxU0Z0z96ZeV9OIXRHF%2FLabeled%20Diagram.png?alt=media&#x26;token=ae5c4e16-e640-4521-ab33-d2ee1c8b2261" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 1.1: A labeled diagram of the Smart Solar Power System.</p></figcaption></figure>

## 2. Installation and Hardware Setup

The Smart Solar Power System is shipped pre-assembled to ensure a quick and easy installation process. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

* **Mounting Surface.** The Smart Solar Power System is designed to be mounted to poles or posts with clear access to sunlight. While it may be possible (use your discretion), we do not recommend installing on horizontal surfaces such as railings.
* **Orientation.** The azimuth and tilt angles at which the Solar Panel is installed are critically important for success and depend on your location and installation situation. We have resources for determining the ideal tilt and azimuth angle for your location ([see this link](https://footprinthero.com/solar-irradiance-calculator)) and season. If you have further questions, please contact support using the in-app chat. If you are installing in an area with obstructions (e.g., an urban canyon), you may need to take extra precautions when choosing an ideal installation setup.

{% hint style="info" %}
It is recommended that two people are present for the installation of the Smart Solar Power System, as the overall system weighs 17 lbs in total and \~9 lbs without the battery installed.
{% endhint %}

### 2.1 Unboxing

When your system arrives, it will be packaged in its shipping box, pre-assembled. Once the box is open and the cables and quick-start guide are removed from the top of the box, carefully remove the assembly from the box by lifting underneath the sides of the solar panel and lifting it straight up. Set the assembly aside and cut away the plastic wrapping holding it together. In the box, you should expect to find:

* Smart Solar Panel System Assembly
* Quick-Start Guide
* Parts bag including:
  * Four (4) 2.5" 1/4"-20 carriage bolts
  * Four (4) 1/4"-20 hex nuts
  * Two (2) Mounting Plates

To complete the installation, you will need the following tools:

* [ ] 7/16" socket or wrench

Please see the unboxing and installation video below for a complete walk-through:

{% embed url="<https://www.loom.com/share/4ce72967ec2e46068ae05413875c689a?sid=53927083-be34-4854-8caa-f7335449715e>" %}

### 2.2 Installation

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Remove the Battery Assembly and Screws

Lift the Solar Panel so that you can access the battery. At the base of the battery, there is a 1/4"-20 hex-head screw holding the battery into place. Remove the screw and set it aside.&#x20;

Near the top of the bracket, you will find two additional 1/4"-20 hex-head screws for securing the tilt angle of the solar panel. Remove those screws and set them aside.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Secure the Solar Panel Assembly to the Pole or Post

If you are mounting to a pole that is <2" in diameter, you can use the provided mounting hardware for installation. If installing to a larger post, you will need to acquire your own mounting hardware that fits the post you are installing to. We recommend hose clamps or metal straps that are no larger than 0.5" wide.

**Mounting to a Pole < 2" in Diameter**

Pre-set two of the provided carriage bolts in the bracket as shown below:

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2F6WUBWI5Iu7Pv8GM8e8CH%2FIMG_4640%202.JPG?alt=media&#x26;token=2ec6032d-d69b-4da2-a639-7ae474dfa7a1" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

With the help of a second installer, place the bracket assembly against the post and secure using one of the mounting plates and two of the hex-head nuts:

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2FCmxMU4dxDvjEBm5KEnUD%2FIMG_4642%202.JPG?alt=media&#x26;token=ff0418df-a53c-4a88-8971-e5f09d84781d" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Make sure to tighten both nuts evenly to distribute the stress against the entire mounting plate. Once complete, repeat this step with the lower mounting plate.

**Mounting to a Post > 2" in Diameter**

If you are mounting to a larger post, please follow the instructions in the following video:

{% embed url="<https://www.loom.com/share/41b935cb618f41e08ba5cdbdc56f94c2?sid=dd3ddfde-01de-4412-93cf-35f2688643cf>" %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Set the Solar Panel Tilt Angle

Once the bracket assembly is installed, adjust the solar panel's tilt angle to the appropriate angle for your location and installation scenario. Secure in place using the two previously-removed 1/4"-20 hex-head screws.

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2Fmu4on1TpF6U6u0IE3yXm%2FIMG_4646%202.JPG?alt=media&#x26;token=4e76d7f7-fc7f-4e54-aa20-426f5a7a3991" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The tilt angles are labeled with each hole representing 10º in additional tilt. Once in place, ensure all four 1/4"-20 screws are tightened.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Install the Battery Pack

Lift and set the battery pack into its slot by forcing against the back of the bracket's sheet metal and slowly lowering it into place, as shown below:

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2FDZy3oAoyZ75oldVVqWf9%2FIMG_46492-ezgif.com-speed.gif?alt=media&#x26;token=12562d73-5546-42d9-9cff-8889c3b634f0" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Once the battery is safely in place, use the previously-removed 1/4"-20 hex-head screw to secure it in place.

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2FYZTdEMTUrJJznHvyFhwz%2FIMG_4651%202.JPG?alt=media&#x26;token=4be681f9-0531-4794-a7b0-9239f3a89d9e" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Connect and Secure the Cables

Attach the two MC4 cables (red and black) from the battery to the corresponding mating part on the Solar Panel:

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2FgsbrUnT3No2KNHMDz8un%2FIMG_4653%202.JPG?alt=media&#x26;token=f83f46c8-d216-4246-93a1-7b96bfdfbed1" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Secure the cables in place using either a zip-tie or by slotting them into the cutouts in the bracket, as shown above. You may need to adjust the upper part of the cable by tugging it through the grommet near the top for a better fit.

At this point, the panel and battery are installed. However, the battery itself is not active until the M12 power output cable is connected, at which point the battery will become activated.&#x20;
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Plug in the Sensor

Plug the M12 power output cable into the base of your QuantAQ air quality sensor, which should natively accept the M12 connector. Plug in the M8 RS485 Communication cable between the battery and sensor, which provides data about the state of the battery and solar panel.

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2Fdmzb8cAohwrdrRY6GCwj%2FAdd%20a%20subheading.png?alt=media&#x26;token=4d8194c1-a566-48fd-a4fe-fdd191cd7128" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
**Using with USB-C Sensor Models**

If your QuantAQ air quality sensor has a 5V USB-C power input, you will need to use the 5V DC converter cable to interface with the Smart Solar Power System. Remove the protective sheet from the double-sided tape and secure the converter cable to the side of the battery. Plug the M12 cable into the M12 cable of the battery, and plug the USB-C cable into your sensor.<br>

More information can be found in Appendix 4.3 below.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Verify your Installation

At the base of the battery pack, there is a series of three LEDs that indicate the operational status of the panel and battery. Complete documentation of the error codes can be found in Section 4.2. If you are installing the system while it's light out, you should expect to see the following:

* **Green**: either solid (System On, Not Charging) or flashing slowly (Charging)
* **Amber:** Solid (System On)
* **Red**: Off
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

## 3. Maintenance

The frequency of maintenance for the Smart Solar Power System depends on your location and environment. We recommend the following maintenance schedule:

<table><thead><tr><th width="197">CHECK</th><th width="144">FREQUENCY</th><th>NOTES</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Manual Inspection</td><td>Quarterly</td><td>Inspect the system to ensure no cables are broken or damaged and the panel is intact (e.g., the glass isn't broken). If damage is present, please get in touch with support.</td></tr><tr><td>Panel Cleaning</td><td>Quarterly</td><td>Wipe down the Solar Panel with a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or other debris.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## 4. Appendix

### 4.1 Dimensions

#### 4.1.1 Panel Dimensions

The bounding box for the 25W solar panel is 507 mm x 307 mm x 30 mm.

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2F7luG8zmqmpL2qIu5Oy9R%2FScreen%20Shot%202025-01-01%20at%209.11.03%20AM.png?alt=media&#x26;token=a7784102-5d68-4bcc-a385-a2e59e452092" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### 4.1.2 Battery Dimensions

The bounding box for the battery is 100 mm x 237 mm x 104.2 mm.

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2FktjtJ6Edd6Kv1N1MxTh3%2FScreen%20Shot%202025-01-01%20at%209.52.42%20AM.png?alt=media&#x26;token=b19bc109-6ea3-449f-bbb5-f5ccd6b42242" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### 4.1.3 Mounting Bracket Dimensions

<figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2F3kZTXKpTT0oQ7t4GUB9n%2FScreen%20Shot%202025-01-01%20at%203.40.59%20PM.png?alt=media&#x26;token=35b36406-bc49-44cd-b9a8-3e10fd35276f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### 4.2 LED Status Codes

The battery includes a 3-LED array indicating the solar power system's operational status.&#x20;

<table><thead><tr><th width="129">COLOR</th><th width="180">PATTERN</th><th>MEANING</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Green</td><td>Solid</td><td>System On, Not Charging</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Flashing Slow</td><td>Charging</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Flashing Fast</td><td>MPPT/Optimized Charging</td></tr><tr><td>Amber</td><td>Solid</td><td>System On</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Flashing Slow</td><td>Low Battery Voltage</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Flashing Fast</td><td>Low Battery Protection</td></tr><tr><td>Red</td><td>Solid</td><td>No Output</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Flashing Slow</td><td>Over Temperature Protection</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>Flashing Fast</td><td>Short Circuit / Overload Protection</td></tr></tbody></table>

### 4.3 12V-5V Converter Usage and Installation

When using the Smart Solar Power System with an older QuantAQ sensor model (USB-C based), you will need to use the provided 12V-to-5V DC converter cable.

<div data-full-width="false"><figure><img src="https://3525414418-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcdMusFauIE4AZkm3CC0c%2Fuploads%2F17ns7PtHrk0WSZKkZZl0%2F1000024305.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=f66ded7f-7f1b-409b-b323-e8feddf03260" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

To install, plug the M12 cable end of the converter cable into the M12 cable from the battery, and plug the USB-C end of the converter cable into the sensor. The converter has VHB double-sided tape on the back. To install, remove the tape backing and place it on the battery, ensuring the cables are pointed down to prevent potential water ingress.

## 5. Storage

If you are planning to store your Smart Solar Power System when not in use, please follow these guidelines:

* **Cables**. Unplug the MC4 cables from the solar panel and any output cables from the battery before storing. If you are using the 12V-to-5V converter, make sure this is unplugged during storage, as it will drain the battery. Verify all LEDs on the battery are off before storing.
* **Temperature**. Store the battery in a location that maintains a temperature between 20ºC and 35ºC (68ºF to 95ºF) and a humidity level between 45% and 85%.
* **Redeployment.** The battery will continue to drain while stored. Before redeploying, we recommend charging the battery to full capacity.

## Changelog

<table><thead><tr><th width="208">DATE</th><th>CHANGES</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>January 1st, 2025</td><td>This is the first release of this document.</td></tr><tr><td>February 10th, 2026</td><td>Added images to clarify the RS485 communication cable and fixed spelling and grammar errors.</td></tr><tr><td>April 17th, 2026</td><td>Added storage instructions and Appendix 4.3.</td></tr></tbody></table>