Solar Panel V-I Curve Tracer Kit with Arduino Uno + LED
Solar Panel V-I Curve Tracer Kit with Arduino Uno – See I-V Curves and MPP on OLED
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
With an MCP4725 DAC sweeping the load, an INA219 sensor recording voltage and current, and an OLED plotting the I-V curve in real time, this kit transforms your Arduino Uno into a precision solar panel characterization tool. You’ll understand exactly how a photovoltaic cell behaves under changing light, and why maximum power point tracking is essential for every solar installation. Whether you’re validating a small panel for a DIY project or demonstrating semiconductor physics, this project turns raw sunlight into data you can see and use.
What You'll Build
You’ll assemble a compact instrument that automatically measures a 6V solar panel’s output, plots the I-V and power curves on an OLED, and highlights the maximum power point (MPP). The MCP4725 acts as a programmable load, the INA219 captures precise voltage and current, and the Arduino computes the power curve and drives the display. The result is a self‑contained curve tracer that runs on a 9V battery, needs no PC after programming, and makes solar cell behavior instantly visible.
What You'll Learn
- How to use I2C sensors (INA219 for voltage/current, MCP4725 DAC) with Arduino
- Plotting real-time I-V curves on an OLED display using simple graphics libraries
- Calculating power and locating the maximum power point algorithmically
- Characterizing a solar panel under varying light and load conditions – a foundation for MPPT design
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | 1 |
| INA219 | 1 |
| MCP4725 DAC | 1 |
| Solar Panel 6V 2W | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | 5 |
| 100nF Caps | 5 |
| 400-pt Breadboard | 1 |
| M-M Wires | 20 |
| 9V Battery Snap | 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
Ideal for CBSE Class 11–12 students exploring semiconductor physics, B.Tech ECE/EEE mini‑projects on renewable energy, and ATL Tinkering Labs where hands‑on solar experimentation is encouraged. With clear breadboard wiring and an AI companion that answers every doubt, even young makers aged 10+ can complete it under supervision, while engineering students from IIT, NIT, VIT, and BITS can use it for advanced characterization and Smart India Hackathon prototypes.
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 inside the box to start a conversation with our AI companion, trained on this exact project. It can guide you step by step, and if you need a human, our WhatsApp support is just a message away.
Can I test solar panels other than the one included?
The kit is optimized for the 6V 2W panel. You can test small panels up to 12V/1A by adjusting the load resistor range and ensuring voltages stay within INA219 limits (26V max). For larger panels you’d need external circuitry, but the core principles remain identical.
Is a computer required to view the I‑V curve?
No — the OLED displays the real‑time I‑V curve and marks the maximum power point directly. You can also open the Arduino serial plotter on a PC to log data digitally, but that’s entirely optional.
What age is this project suitable for?
With the AI companion’s step‑by‑step guidance, children as young as 10 can complete it under adult supervision. The soldering‑free breadboard design and simple I2C wiring make it accessible for beginners, while still teaching advanced concepts for high school and college students.
MCP4725 sweeps load. INA219 records V and I. OLED plots I-V curve and marks max power point.
What's in this kit
Other projects you can build
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