Question 1

can this be used with 12 volt systems

Accepted Answer

I used to install these panels and have 10 on my own roof. Basically, using them for a 12-volt system is not a good idea. These are 24 volt panels (actually put out 24 to 33 volts at 4 amps) and they really will not work well with a 12 volt system. If your charge controller is a smart MPPT controller that can handle 33 volts or more of input, then it would probably go ahead and charge your 12 volt batteries -- but it would not let more than about 17 volts through because 12 volt batteries should not be charged at more than 17 volts or so. The MPPT function would try to convert the extra voltage above 17 volts into "more amps" of electricity, but can only do so much of that. You end up using only about 60 percent to 70 percent of the power this panel puts out. What a waste.Warning: not-smart, not-MPPT controllers will probably not work with the high voltage this panel puts out and you might damage the controller. Why do this? There are millions of 12 volt solar panels out there... buy some of them. Or else change your system to 24 volts, which works better than 12 volts in many ways.

Question 2

Can I cut this panel into smaller sections?

Accepted Answer

panel can not be cut to size.

Question 3

bought one in Feb; with wires on the underside (sticky side). I want another the same, not with connector on blue (sun side).  Can I request it?

Accepted Answer

only one seller has this model as it was originally a special order prior to the manufacturer bankruptcy.  Amazon does not recognize this critical technical difference and therefore lists the most popular style(connection on top via J-box ) as if it were the only possible option.  No kudos to Amazon on this technical inadequacy on their part; perhaps they need to hire more staff familiar with technology.  As it stands; the seller is unable to list here the product with this uniqueness.  Not everyone would be delighted since the only description on Amazon does not specify; assuming they are all J-box on top side of panel.

Question 4

Does the panel need to be adhered to a roof/solid surface or could it be adhered to a ripstop type material and fastened to a frame?

Accepted Answer

The panel was designed with a very sticky roofing type adhesive backing that Unisolar indicated would withstand Class III hurricane winds of 130 MPH.  They can also be applied on a less permanent basis to a ripstop style fabric and even rolled up when not in use.  I have seen photos of the panels applied to a fabric roof of a carport.

Brand	Unisolar
Material	Flexible Material
Item Weight	7.71 kg
Efficiency	High Efficiency
Maximum Voltage	24 Volts
Maximum Power	136 Watts
UPC	720189809941 608938615282
Manufacturer	Uni-Solar
Item model number	PVL-136
Product Dimensions	548.64 x 1.52 x 39.37 cm; 7.71 kg
ASIN	B002MWFFWM

Uni-Solar PVL-136 PowerBond PVL 136 Watt 24 Volt 216-Inch x 15.5-Inch Flexible Solar Panel

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