On Wed, 22 Oct 2008 05:34:13 -0700 (PDT), wrote:


No, I don't want 'mains' anywhere near this project and just need
something simple / free / idiot proof and self sufficient. The panels
were cheap (£18 delivered the pair) so in total half the cost of one
Optimate charger. I see no reason why these panels wouldn't provide
the same function as two mains powered chargers (and cheaper than even
the 4 x Aldi jobbies I've already got but need to be manually 'reset'
every time they are re-connected to a battery, something I'm bound to
forget to do). I'm not looking to charge, just float / maintain.

Cheers, *T i m

should be fine if you have long periods between significant amounts of
lighting use. 5w panels will take their time to recharge the battery

Ah, two projects going on here.

1) To provide emergency / alternative off-mains background lighting to
the workshop.

2) To provide float / maintenance charging for two (at least)
motorbikes:

The above was aimed at the second project.

Cheers, T i m