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Review on ๐Ÿ”‹ Cutting Edge Power Solar Panel USB Adapter Charge Controller Backpacking Camping Hiking OffGrid Version 8 Ports: Optimal Charging Solution for Outdoor Adventures by Michael Robinson

Revainrating 3 out of 5

Works but overpriced. depending on your opinion.

This device worked "well" at first (because I didn't know how it was constructed and how it worked). Until I blew it up for my stupidity in reversing the polarity at the input of the solar panel. These units require polarity protection built into the design, but beyond that I would have to spend another $12 to replace all 4 buck converters internal + wiring + MC4 connectors. Did a disassembly and saw the design. The value is in the box, it looks like it's 3D printed but I'm not sure. The box is well and good designed for basic $4 converters and fans, but definitely needs a reverse polarity protection built into the design. Especially for $72. Not worth the $72 in my opinion if the polarity fuse is not installed. If you just use it directly without messing around with solar panels (like me) then this device is fine. Doesn't have PD USB which would be nice. Also, the "50W, 100W, and 200Wโ€ versions are a bit misleading. Note that each USB pair can only supply a maximum of 2.3A between two ports, with a maximum voltage of 5.5V. This calculates a maximum of 50W to 60W for the "200W version". Anything beyond the 50-60W solar panel is pointless. So if 200w is advertised it will work but you risk exploding. block like mine. I feel like I wasted my money. Update 09/19/2020: I am attaching photos of my repair that I had to do (at my own expense). I ordered the exact same buck converters from Revain (see picture) for $12 (5pcs cheap). I chose not to install the MC4 connector as it is very bulky but left the MC4 body as there are two large holes. Instead I ran 14AWG wire through the MC4 and I'm going to install an XT60 connector which is more convenient (for me) and which I mostly use in my projects. I will post more photos as the renovation progresses. Later this week I will provide feedback on what improvements to include, the pros and cons.

Pros
  • Pleasant to use
Cons
  • Disappears