The plan is to convert this to a free standing battery/solar powered HamMesh node. It must also be a weather proof unit for outdoors deployment. |
First thing is to remove the pcb from the OEM box |
Because of the way the antennas exit the rear of the OEM case beside the ethernet ports I can't mount it with the TNC connectors exiting the water proof box without blocking the enthernet ports I decided to rotate the left connector 90degs and remove the right connector from the board. As you can see it is on a fly lead. |
Connector rotated 90Degs and resoldered |
Replacement weather proof box |
Pcb sitting in position before mounting |
Adjustable voltage regulator. Set at a constant 8v to supply the router. (using the regulator set to 8v it will give it a longer run time at the expense of running the battery lower than you should) |
3A MPPT solar charge controller. |
All pcbs mounted and wired. Although wiring needs tidying up. |
Battery fitted, powered up and charging. I'm using a 7Ah battery which should give around 25Hrs run time without sun. Solar panel is supplying around 1A.
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Battery mounted to lid.
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Weather proof switch installed. It only switches the regulator off. Solar regulator hardwired to battery and solar panel
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Really needs to be larger battery and solar panel IF it is used as a permanent install. My idea is to have it as small as possible for quick deployment and then if required for longer periods power it externally from a larger battery/solar system.