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Sunbank Assembly

The Sunbank 2W is a solar power base for the WindNerd HQ and OnSpot (and the discontinued One-S). It holds a 18650 rechargeable lithium battery and two solar panels with independent charging circuits, plus a USB-C charging port.

Sunbank on dock
info

Due to transport regulations for lithium-ion batteries, the 18650 cell is not included and must be sourced locally. Any standard 3.7 V lithium-ion 18650 cell can be used, new or salvaged, provided it is in good condition. In locations with good solar exposure, even lowest-capacity cells will generally perform adequately.

Assembly Instructions​

Follow the steps below to assemble your Sunbank.

1. Position the First Solar Panel​

Arrange the wire so that it forms a loop.

How to position solar cell wire

2. Apply Glue to the Corners​

Apply glue to each side and corner of the panel pocket.

Alternatively, an RTV-silicone-type adhesive can be used on a larger surface instead of cyanoacrylate. It provides a seal while still allowing the solar cell to be removed should a rebuild ever become necessary.

Apply glue at each corner

3. Insert the Solar Panel​

Place the solar panel into the pocket while gently pulling the wire outward.

Pull wire

4. Hold Until Cured​

Press the solar panel firmly in place and hold until the glue has cured.

Press panel

5. Install the Second Solar Panel​

Repeat the same procedure to glue the second solar panel.

Glue second panel

6. Route the XH2.54 Cable​

Run the XH2.54 cable from the top of the enclosure to the bottom.

Insert cable from top Run wire to bottom

7. Insert the 18650 Battery​

Insert a 18650 cell into the battery holder, ensuring correct polarity.

Insert 18650

8. Connect the Cable to the PCB​

Connect the XH2.54 cable to the electronic board.

Insert PCB

9. Connect the Solar Panels​

Connect the two solar panels to the PCB.

Connect solar panels to PCB

10. Insert the PCB​

Carefully push the electronic board fully into the enclosure.

Push PCB inside

11. Initial Charging​

Before outdoor installation, fully charge the battery via the USB-C port. The green LED indicates when charging is complete. A full charging cycle can take up to 8 hours.

Initial charging via USB-C

12. Close the Enclosure​

Attach the bottom cover using the two small screws.

Close bottom cover

Once charged, the Sunbank can be mounted on its mast dock: see the Sunbank dock installation.