How to Build a Simple Solar Cell Circuit using a 2N3055 Transistor

Do anyone wants to know how solar panels work?

Building a small solar cell at home makes this possible.

Those who enjoy electronics and are familiar with the well known transistor component will find this project enjoyable.

Even though this model is simple and wont power a house but its an excellent way to learn how sunlight can be converted into electricity.

Circuit Working:

Parts List:

Choose a working 2N3055 power transistor from the collection of extra electronic parts to start.

Gently remove the transistors top cap while be sure the internal circuit is unharmed as shown in the diagram.

Next as shown in the circuit diagram above connect the transistors emitter and collector pins to create the positive output using the base of the transistor as the negative output.

The transistors positive and negative outputs will quickly produce about 0.7V when these steps are completed and the changed area is exposed to sunlight.

The 2N3055 power transistor acts as the primary component of the handmade solar cell to power it further.

By altering the components and wiring up the connections one can effectively reuse it to capture solar energy.

Because it lets sunlight into the inner components the grinding process is important for creating a difference in voltage between the positive and negative terminals.

This simple but successful technique makes it possible to turn a common electronic component into a working solar cell showing the basic principles of photovoltaic energy conversion in a DIY situation.

How to build:

The following steps are involved for building a simple solar cell circuit using a 2N3055 power transistor.

• From the electronic components one uses select a 2N3055 power transistor.
• Verify that it functions.
• Using a hacksaw carefully remove the transistors top cap.
• Be careful not to damage the internal circuit of the transistor while in the process.
• Because it allows sunlight to enter the interior components this step is important.
• Connect the emitter and collector pins of the transistor.
• This creates the positive output.
• The negative output of a transistor is its base.
• Solder and a soldering iron are used to secure the connections.
• Check that the soldering is done neatly and that the joints are secure.
• Use a multimeter to confirm that the positive and negative outputs are constant.
• This stage ensures that the connections are set up properly.
• Expose the transistors new position to intense light or sunshine once the connections have been verified.
• The top cap should ideally be taken off of the exposed portion.
• Using a multimeter and measure the voltage across the transistors positive and negative outputs.
• A minimum value of 0.7 volts should be observed.

Note:

• This homemade solar cell is not meant to produce a lot of power it is merely a demo.
• It functions as a teaching project to help people understand the basics of solar energy conversion.
• This DIY solar cell uses a 2N3055 power transistor which has a limited efficiency.
• When it comes to converting sunshine into power commercial solar cells are far more advanced and effective.

Safety:

• Always take care when working with soldering equipment and handling electronic components.
• Also this easy solar cell project that uses a 2N3055 transistor is more of an educational activity than an effective means to power devices.

References:

Power Transistor 2N3055 as a Solar Cell Device

Turn a transistor into a solar cell! (Screw it, a phototransistor!)