ECE Lab Kit 18 MPPT Solar Charge Controller
Build an MPPT Solar Charge Controller with Arduino — Compare Perturb & Observe vs Direct Connection
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Ever wondered how solar charge controllers squeeze every last watt from a panel? This intermediate-level lab kit lets you implement the Perturb and Observe (P&O) MPPT algorithm on an Arduino, then compare its performance against a simple direct connection. You'll measure voltage, current, and power under varying light conditions, proving the algorithm's effectiveness in real time.
What You'll Build
You'll build a fully functional MPPT solar charge controller that dynamically tracks the maximum power point of a 10W solar panel, charging a LiFePO4 battery. The experiment includes a direct charging path for side-by-side comparison, with sensors feeding data to a serial monitor for analysis.
What You'll Learn
- Implement the Perturb & Observe algorithm in Arduino code
- Interface voltage and current sensors with an Arduino
- Analyze I-V characteristics of a solar panel
- Compare efficiency between MPPT and direct charging methods
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | x1 |
| Solar Panel 10W | x1 |
| MOSFET IRF540N | x2 |
| Schottky Diode | x3 |
| Inductor 100µH | x1 |
| LiFePO4 Cell | x1 |
| Voltage Sensor | x2 |
| Current Sensor ACS712 | x1 |
| USB Cable | x1 |
| M-M Wires | x20 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Ideal for B.Tech ECE/EEE students tackling renewable energy lab assignments, CBSE Class 12 physics extended projects, or Smart India Hackathon teams working on solar optimization. Engineering colleges using ATL tinkering labs or project-based learning modules will find this kit plug-and-play for their curriculum.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code on the box to access the AI companion trained specifically for this MPPT kit. It can answer questions step-by-step, and you can also reach us via WhatsApp for human backup.
Can I use a panel larger than 10W?
The IRF540N MOSFET and Schottky diodes can handle higher currents, but the P&O algorithm and voltage sensors are calibrated for the included 10W panel. For larger panels, you would need to adjust sensor scaling and possibly upgrade the inductor. We recommend starting with the provided panel for the learning experiment.
Is the Arduino code provided?
Yes. The AI companion provides the full, commented Arduino sketch for the Perturb & Observe algorithm, along with instructions to upload it. You'll also get a serial monitor dashboard to visualize real-time MPPT performance versus direct charging.
How do I compare MPPT and direct charging in the same circuit?
The kit includes a toggle setup using the MOSFETs and diodes that lets you switch between MPPT and direct paths without rewiring. Sensor data from both modes is logged via the Arduino, so you can view side-by-side efficiency curves on the serial monitor.
Perturb and observe MPPT algorithm on Arduino optimises power from solar panel to battery — compare with direct connection.
What's in this kit
- Arduino Uno R3
- Solar Panel 10W
- MOSFET IRF540N x2
- Schottky Diode x3
- Inductor 100µH
- LiFePO4 Cell
- Voltage Sensor x2
- Current Sensor ACS712
- USB Cable
- M-M Wires x20
Ask Soldr above what you can build with this — it knows every Compoden kit this part appears in.
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items