Section 2 - Field Deployment
16
MLGPS-P
User's Guide
Power
If the MLGPS is going to be installed without a ready source of power, solar panels can be used. If solar panels
are to be used, be sure that the enclosure is installed in a location with enough solar exposure.
The solar panel should be positioned for maximum sun exposure. In the Northern hemisphere this means
aligning the panel with a southward exposure. In the Southern hemisphere, align the panel in a northward
direction. Use a compass to derive the correct angle. Remember to correct compass headings for declination.
The other key criteria for solar panel installation is the tilt angle. Figure 2.2 B illustrates the variability between
summer and winter and latitude.
Insolation
is a measure of solar radiation energy received on a given surface
and recorded during a given time.
(Figure 2.2 B ‒ Insolation throughout the year at differing latitudes)
Figure 2.2 B depicts northern hemisphere solar energy, shift the months by 6 months for the southern
hemisphere. As can be seen, solar energy varies considerably over the course of the year so the tilt angle
should be adjusted to capture the maximum radiation during the worst month of the year. In the Northern
hemisphere this is December. In the Southern hemisphere this is June.
June
December
Northern
Hemisphere
Southern
Hemisphere
Northern
Hemisphere
Southern
Hemisphere
70
0
0
70
60
10
10
60
50
20
20
50
40
30
30
40
30
40
40
30
20
50
50
20
10
60
60
10
0
70
70
0
(Table 2.2 ‒ Northern solar energy versus southern solar energy)
