Solar option

[Mucram]

Thought I would share that w the solar option, the panel shows battery voltage in % charge but delightfully also has USB port. Glad I didn't do that option.

[LeonW]

Originally Posted by Mucram

Thought I would share that w the solar option, the panel shows battery voltage in % charge but delightfully also has USB port. Glad I didn't do that option.

OK I am a bit confused. We have the older Solar system, with the controller under the passenger side bench (would love to have it somewhere it is easier to read). Are you saying the new solar controller also has a USB port? Why are you glad you DIDN"T do that option? I don't see the drawback to a USB port? Is the USB port for charging devices or for making changes to the Solar charging parameters?

Thanks.

[Vermilye]

Originally Posted by LeonW

OK I am a bit confused. We have the older Solar system, with the controller under the passenger side bench (would love to have it somewhere it is easier to read). Are you saying the new solar controller also has a USB port? Why are you glad you DIDN"T do that option? I don't see the drawback to a USB port? Is the USB port for charging devices or for making changes to the Solar charging parameters?

Thanks.

I believe they were stating they were glad they didn't get one of Escape's optional USB ports.

According to the User Manual for the GoPower controller, it can supply 800ma, enough for an iPhone, but not enough for an iPad (mine requires 2 amps).

[Mucram]

Good to know Jon. Does the standard usb charge an ipad? Here are pics of placement of the 17b solar controller & usb.

[Vermilye]

Originally Posted by Mucram

Good to know Jon. Does the standard usb charge an ipad? Here are pics of placement of the 17b solar controller & usb.

No idea. Since most USB adapters are close to 1 amp, it may not. The "official" load specifications for USB 1 & 2 is 500ma, USB 3 is 900ma, however a port can supply more. For battery charging, 5 amps is the maximum, however the highest I've seen for adapters is 2.1 amps.

I haven't seen a spec for the port Escape provides, but maybe someone who has one can either check the faceplate for an amp rating, or try to plug a full sized iPad into it to see if it works.

[Greg A]

I've charged both iPhone and iPad on mine.

[gmchamplin]

When I asked that question Tina sent me this picture.

[GlennT]

Julie, where in your Escape is that solar monitor screen located? Looks like it is in an overhead cabinet rather than down on the bench? Did you stipulate in your Build Sheet where you wanted it?

[KarenH]

Originally Posted by GlennT

Did you stipulate in your Build Sheet where you wanted it?

I'm not sure of the current default locations on any of the trailers, but at the time mine was built, it was in an overhead cabinet. I stipulated that I wanted mine under a bench seat.