Photovoltaic Shade Loss Analyser Kit with Arduino Mega
Build a Precision Shade Loss Analyser for Solar Panels with Arduino Mega
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Harness the power of data to understand how shading cripples solar panels. This kit lets you build a four-channel current monitor, visualize each cell’s contribution on a TFT screen, and see how bypass diodes rescue the panel’s output. Perfect for students exploring renewable energy and embedded systems.
What You'll Build
A portable instrument that clamps onto a small solar panel and measures current from four individual cells simultaneously. You'll watch real-time data on the 1.8-inch color display, and when one cell is shaded, the bypass diode reroutes current—quantified just as a field engineer would.
What You'll Learn
- How to interface multiple INA219 current sensors over I2C using a TCA9548A multiplexer.
- The physics of photovoltaic shading and the protective role of bypass diodes.
- Coding Arduino Mega to process sensor data and drive a ST7735 TFT display.
- Soldering and assembling a compact prototype on PCB boards.
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Mega 2560 | 1 |
| INA219 | 4 |
| TCA9548A I2C Mux | 1 |
| Solar Panel 6V 2W | 1 |
| 1.8in TFT ST7735 | 1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | 5 |
| 100nF Capacitors | 15 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| 9V Battery Snap | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
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
This kit is designed for CBSE Class 11–12 students tackling renewable energy experiments, B.Tech ECE/EEE undergraduates building mini projects or Smart India Hackathon prototypes, and ATL Tinkering Lab facilitators seeking a hands-on solar physics demo. Engineering students at IITs, NITs, VIT, or BITS Pilani will find it a powerful tool for understanding real-world power electronics.
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 for the AI build companion trained on this kit; it guides you through wiring, code, and calibration. You can also reach us on WhatsApp for human assistance.
Can I test larger solar panels with this kit?
The included 6V 2W panel is safe for hands-on learning. The INA219 sensors can handle up to 3.2A, so you can test larger panels with appropriate current ratings, but we recommend staying within 5V systems.
Does this kit teach about bypass diodes in real solar arrays?
Yes, by shading one cell on the supplied panel you'll see the bypass diode in action—current jumps to the diode path, just like in large installations. The data logging on the TFT shows the exact magnitude of loss and recovery.
Do I need prior soldering experience?
Intermediate builders will benefit most; however, the kit includes a soldering iron and solder wire, and the AI companion has close-up visuals for each solder joint. A little practice beforehand is recommended.
Four INA219 on cells in a panel measure individual output. Shade on one cell shows bypass diode effect.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
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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