[RE-wrenches] Old Solar Modules

[Allan Sindelar]

The Photowatt is French. Early 80s most likely. Windy Dankoff imported them for a few years, late 70s - early 80s. They’re remarkable modules. I had (before I retired) several clients still using them. Every one is still putting out at or close to rated output, 40 years later. The only problem I ever encountered is the output studs breaking off. And years ago I used to solder leads to the ribbons with Big Bertha - a 100w soldering iron. I made clear up front that I wouldn’t guarantee my repair work, but it worked every time, and never shattered the glass. 
The 50w Arco would likely be late 80s, as before that they were 32-35w. 
The Solarex is likely a VLX53 from the mid-late 90s. The VLX had a thin frame. 
Hope that helps. Other old timers can correct me if I’m wrong with any of this. 
Allan Sindelar 

Sent from my iPhone

> On Sep 12, 2022, at 4:29 PM, Amos Post via RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
> 
> Hi all,
> 
> I have a few old modules I am trying to date best I can.  One is an Photowatt (Arco?) 55Watt silver frame yellow backsheet, one is a Solarex 53Watt silver frame grey back sheet, and one Arco 50Watt black frame black back sheet.  Looking for help with dates and if anyone knows of good websites for looking up specs and/or dates on these older modules?
> 
> Thanks,
> Amos
> 
> 
>        Amos Post
>    Integrity Energy
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>    C 802.291.2188
>     ienergyVT.com
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