Disconnect the positive cable between the battery and the panel.
How to test a 12v solar panel.
Set the meter to above 200 vcd to ensure you get the most accurate reading possible.
To test a 12v panel meters should always be set to the dc voltage area which usually identified by the symbol below.
Measure operating current as described above.
You want to choose a voltage range capable of displaying the maximum possible voltage of the panel in open circuit that is when not connected to the battery or charge controller.
The solar charge controller must not limit the current flow during testing.
Step 3 measure.
Disconnect the positive cable that is.
You will want to ensure that you place the positive to positive and negative to negative when attaching your multimeter to the connection on the back of your solar panel.
Re connect the solar panel directly to the battery without the regulator.
To test the regulator.
Set the measurements of the multimeter to dc amps.
To test solar panel voltage output put your solar panel in direct sunlight set your multi meter to the volts setting and.
The system should be tested at maximum current with the solar array in direct.
Touch the multi meter s red positive lead to your solar panel s positive wire.
As most solar panels are 12 volts the solar panel test methods are basically the same.
Step 2 measure state of charge.
Then touch the multi meter s black negative lead to your solar panel s negative wire.
Testing a small 12v solar power system step 1 wait for a clear sunny day.