PV Gap

Martin Said:

what happens if i connect a solar panel to a battery thats lower than the operating voltage?

We Answered:

You would typically have a blocking diode in place to prevent battery discharge (even cheep panels have this).

Your 9v panel is actually at 11.5v when there is no current. So you may be able to very slightly trickle charge a dead battery. I doubt you will be able to witness any results however.

The simple solution is to purchase a 12v panel :)

Another solution, if you do not wish to purchase a new panel, is to get a charge controller. A charge controller can boost the voltage to the proper charging values and protects the batteries when they are full.

Check them out at:
http://www.aurorapower.net/products/list…

Best of luck to you!