Comments for Green Living with a Family http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com helping kids and families learn to live a little bit greener Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:54:38 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.2 Comment on S-1116: 12V Briefcase Solar Generator by Michael D. Zuteck http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/s-1116-12v-briefcase-solar-generator.html/comment-page-1#comment-508 Michael D. Zuteck Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:54:38 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/s-1116-12v-briefcase-solar-generator.html#comment-508 <i>Review by Michael D. Zuteck for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/S-1116-12V-Briefcase-Solar-Generator/dp/B0018SC1SW%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB0018SC1SW" rel="nofollow">S-1116: 12V Briefcase Solar Generator</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/4.png" ></b> I bought this unit as a low cost way to gain some hands on experience with solar panels, and for possible use to recharge my laptop computer after a hurricane power outage. Via digital voltmeter I found: <br />Open circuit voltage: ~ 21.5 v <br />Max charging current: 400 - 500 ma <br /> Both the voltage and current will vary somewhat depending on temperature and insolation - these values are for shirt sleeve temperature and good sky conditions. I've used it to recharge the battery on a motorcycle that's used infrequently, and leave it on the front dash of an Astro van that is also infrequently used. It adds charge in both cases, but at a half amp tops its not a fast way to do it. <br /> The unit is reasonably well built, and the supplied hookup cables are useful. For light duty or maintenance charging, it can do the job. If you want to deliver a more robust amount of power, a monocrystaline panel will deliver a lot more juice for the same physical size, whether its briefcase or regular panel. <br /> Bottom line - if you understand its limits, this product is a good way to mess around with solar power at a modest price. But it you want to generate more serious levels of power, look at the mono or poly crystaline alternatives. Review by Michael D. Zuteck for S-1116: 12V Briefcase Solar Generator
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I bought this unit as a low cost way to gain some hands on experience with solar panels, and for possible use to recharge my laptop computer after a hurricane power outage. Via digital voltmeter I found:

Open circuit voltage: ~ 21.5 v

Max charging current: 400 – 500 ma

Both the voltage and current will vary somewhat depending on temperature and insolation – these values are for shirt sleeve temperature and good sky conditions. I’ve used it to recharge the battery on a motorcycle that’s used infrequently, and leave it on the front dash of an Astro van that is also infrequently used. It adds charge in both cases, but at a half amp tops its not a fast way to do it.

The unit is reasonably well built, and the supplied hookup cables are useful. For light duty or maintenance charging, it can do the job. If you want to deliver a more robust amount of power, a monocrystaline panel will deliver a lot more juice for the same physical size, whether its briefcase or regular panel.

Bottom line – if you understand its limits, this product is a good way to mess around with solar power at a modest price. But it you want to generate more serious levels of power, look at the mono or poly crystaline alternatives.

]]> Comment on S-1116: 12V Briefcase Solar Generator by WILLIAM MCLEAN http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/s-1116-12v-briefcase-solar-generator.html/comment-page-1#comment-507 WILLIAM MCLEAN Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:11:08 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/s-1116-12v-briefcase-solar-generator.html#comment-507 <i>Review by WILLIAM MCLEAN for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/S-1116-12V-Briefcase-Solar-Generator/dp/B0018SC1SW%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB0018SC1SW" rel="nofollow">S-1116: 12V Briefcase Solar Generator</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/4.png" ></b> I own four of these. Got them from another source. I have all of them in a closet waiting for an extended power outage. I purchased Radio Shack #274-1573 adapters so that I can plug them directly into my four Xantrex XPower Powerpack 400 plus units (battery pack power sources). These power packs give me both 12 Volt DC and 115 Volt AC. I keep them fully charged by plugging them in to the wall socket. As for choosing solar panels, If I could afford it (and I was many years younger) I might have purchased the much more expensive monocrystalline solar panels. They retain 80% of original efficiency after twenty five years of continuous use. By contrast, these much cheaper S-1116 briefcase panels will only last about five years of continuous use. Also, the monocrystalline panels are much more efficient and thus smaller while producing higher wattage. A nice portable monocrystalline briefcase is available at much higher cost. It is even somewhat weather proof. The S-1116 is not weather proof. If you want to set up a lifetime solar power source, buy monocrystalline solar panels. But, I assume you are only wanting a portable solar power source for emergencies. If so, I think this cheaper S-1116 is your best choice. It might also be a good choice considering that they do last five years - and the scientific community is continuously improving, and reducing cost of, everything electronic. All four of my panels tested better than advertised. Maybe I should have given the S-1116 five stars. Review by WILLIAM MCLEAN for S-1116: 12V Briefcase Solar Generator
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I own four of these. Got them from another source. I have all of them in a closet waiting for an extended power outage. I purchased Radio Shack #274-1573 adapters so that I can plug them directly into my four Xantrex XPower Powerpack 400 plus units (battery pack power sources). These power packs give me both 12 Volt DC and 115 Volt AC. I keep them fully charged by plugging them in to the wall socket. As for choosing solar panels, If I could afford it (and I was many years younger) I might have purchased the much more expensive monocrystalline solar panels. They retain 80% of original efficiency after twenty five years of continuous use. By contrast, these much cheaper S-1116 briefcase panels will only last about five years of continuous use. Also, the monocrystalline panels are much more efficient and thus smaller while producing higher wattage. A nice portable monocrystalline briefcase is available at much higher cost. It is even somewhat weather proof. The S-1116 is not weather proof. If you want to set up a lifetime solar power source, buy monocrystalline solar panels. But, I assume you are only wanting a portable solar power source for emergencies. If so, I think this cheaper S-1116 is your best choice. It might also be a good choice considering that they do last five years – and the scientific community is continuously improving, and reducing cost of, everything electronic. All four of my panels tested better than advertised. Maybe I should have given the S-1116 five stars.

]]> Comment on Solar Water Heating–Revised & Expanded Edition: A Comprehensive Guide to Solar Water and Space Heating Systems (Mother Earth News Wiser Living Series) by Cookstove http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/solar-water-heating-revised-expanded-edition-a-comprehensive-guide-to-solar-water-and-space-heating-systems-mother-earth-news-wiser-living-series.html/comment-page-1#comment-501 Cookstove Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:55:33 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/solar-water-heating-revised-expanded-edition-a-comprehensive-guide-to-solar-water-and-space-heating-systems-mother-earth-news-wiser-living-series.html#comment-501 <i>Review by Cookstove for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Solar-Water-Heating-Revised-Expanded-Comprehensive/dp/0865716684%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0865716684" rel="nofollow">Solar Water Heating--Revised & Expanded Edition: A Comprehensive Guide to Solar Water and Space Heating Systems (Mother Earth News Wiser Living Series)</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/4.png" ></b> The book is generally well written and has helpful illustrations. <br /> <br />Unfortunately, the author insisted on going political (e.g., "big oil is evil, "Reagan sucks," etc.) in his History chapter. Too bad...I really just wanted information about solar water heating. Review by Cookstove for Solar Water Heating–Revised & Expanded Edition: A Comprehensive Guide to Solar Water and Space Heating Systems (Mother Earth News Wiser Living Series)
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The book is generally well written and has helpful illustrations.

Unfortunately, the author insisted on going political (e.g., “big oil is evil, “Reagan sucks,” etc.) in his History chapter. Too bad…I really just wanted information about solar water heating.

]]> Comment on How to Build a Solar Panel Power System for less than $150.00 (The Debt Killer) by Anonymous http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/how-to-build-a-solar-panel-power-system-for-less-than-150-00-the-debt-killer.html/comment-page-1#comment-500 Anonymous Thu, 04 Nov 2010 23:39:01 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/how-to-build-a-solar-panel-power-system-for-less-than-150-00-the-debt-killer.html#comment-500 <i>Review by for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Build-System-150-00-Killer-ebook/dp/B003BVJCFY%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB003BVJCFY" rel="nofollow">How to Build a Solar Panel Power System for less than $150.00 (The Debt Killer)</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/1.png" ></b> no useable information i dont understand why this is for sale on amazon. first review is too kind Review by for How to Build a Solar Panel Power System for less than $150.00 (The Debt Killer)
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no useable information i dont understand why this is for sale on amazon. first review is too kind

]]> Comment on How to Build a Solar Panel Power System for less than $150.00 (The Debt Killer) by N. R. Evans http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/how-to-build-a-solar-panel-power-system-for-less-than-150-00-the-debt-killer.html/comment-page-1#comment-499 N. R. Evans Thu, 04 Nov 2010 23:26:39 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/how-to-build-a-solar-panel-power-system-for-less-than-150-00-the-debt-killer.html#comment-499 <i>Review by N. R. Evans for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Build-System-150-00-Killer-ebook/dp/B003BVJCFY%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB003BVJCFY" rel="nofollow">How to Build a Solar Panel Power System for less than $150.00 (The Debt Killer)</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/2.png" ></b> Maybe for the AUTHOR this is a debt killer, but not for the buyer. This plan is the same as many you can find free on the internet. The instructions are clear and the graphics are good, but for $5, you can save your money and get a free version. This offering is not much more than a short magazine article. I thought it would be more, and was not happy with the purchase. Review by N. R. Evans for How to Build a Solar Panel Power System for less than $150.00 (The Debt Killer)
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Maybe for the AUTHOR this is a debt killer, but not for the buyer. This plan is the same as many you can find free on the internet. The instructions are clear and the graphics are good, but for $5, you can save your money and get a free version. This offering is not much more than a short magazine article. I thought it would be more, and was not happy with the purchase.

]]> Comment on Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts by G. Alger http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html/comment-page-1#comment-498 G. Alger Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:14:51 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html#comment-498 <i>Review by G. Alger for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Renewable-Energy-Fantasies-Realities-Interviews/dp/0615388353%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0615388353" rel="nofollow">Renewable Energy - Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/5.png" ></b> Thoughtful presentation. Through the expertise of his interview subjects, Shields has highlighted the "Tough Realities" represented by the conversion (and oppositions) of technological, economic and political forces that impact the move to clean energy. The difficulties of moving away from fossil fuels are not solely a technical challenge. And the obstacles established by way of vested interests are likewise only one piece of the puzzle, although their impact on the political process is problematic. Review by G. Alger for Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts
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Thoughtful presentation. Through the expertise of his interview subjects, Shields has highlighted the “Tough Realities” represented by the conversion (and oppositions) of technological, economic and political forces that impact the move to clean energy. The difficulties of moving away from fossil fuels are not solely a technical challenge. And the obstacles established by way of vested interests are likewise only one piece of the puzzle, although their impact on the political process is problematic.

]]> Comment on Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts by David Schwartz http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html/comment-page-1#comment-497 David Schwartz Thu, 04 Nov 2010 13:44:24 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html#comment-497 <i>Review by David Schwartz for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Renewable-Energy-Fantasies-Realities-Interviews/dp/0615388353%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0615388353" rel="nofollow">Renewable Energy - Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/5.png" ></b> If you are wondering what some of the brightest minds in the Renewable Energy field are thinking, you need this on your bookshelf. Craig Shields does a wonderful job. Review by David Schwartz for Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts
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If you are wondering what some of the brightest minds in the Renewable Energy field are thinking, you need this on your bookshelf. Craig Shields does a wonderful job.

]]> Comment on Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts by Brooks Agnew http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html/comment-page-1#comment-496 Brooks Agnew Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:55:45 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html#comment-496 <i>Review by Brooks Agnew for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Renewable-Energy-Fantasies-Realities-Interviews/dp/0615388353%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0615388353" rel="nofollow">Renewable Energy - Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/5.png" ></b> I recall a book about Southwest Airlines called "Nuts." It should have been called "Guts," because that is what it takes to launch a new technology in the United States today. Craig's book is a collection of powerful interviews with the people who took the chance to follow their dream. The testimony of how these champions overcome their engineering challenges is enough to inspire anyone to step onto the path of entrepreneurship. Craig is in a unique position to hear to stories behind the curtain. <br /> <br />I encourage you to hear the wizards' stories as they apply their skills and tell of how they had to learn new ones to make it happen. Great read, because Craig is a great interviewer. Review by Brooks Agnew for Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts
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I recall a book about Southwest Airlines called “Nuts.” It should have been called “Guts,” because that is what it takes to launch a new technology in the United States today. Craig’s book is a collection of powerful interviews with the people who took the chance to follow their dream. The testimony of how these champions overcome their engineering challenges is enough to inspire anyone to step onto the path of entrepreneurship. Craig is in a unique position to hear to stories behind the curtain.

I encourage you to hear the wizards’ stories as they apply their skills and tell of how they had to learn new ones to make it happen. Great read, because Craig is a great interviewer.

]]> Comment on Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts by Jeff Siegel http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html/comment-page-1#comment-495 Jeff Siegel Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:09:10 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html#comment-495 <i>Review by Jeff Siegel for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Renewable-Energy-Fantasies-Realities-Interviews/dp/0615388353%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0615388353" rel="nofollow">Renewable Energy - Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/5.png" ></b> Renewable Energy: Facts and Fantasies really gets to the heart of the burgeoning renewable energy industry. By going straight to the experts, this book provides an honest review of where the industry is, and more important, where it's heading. A great read for those looking for an intro to the world of renewable energy. Review by Jeff Siegel for Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts
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Renewable Energy: Facts and Fantasies really gets to the heart of the burgeoning renewable energy industry. By going straight to the experts, this book provides an honest review of where the industry is, and more important, where it’s heading. A great read for those looking for an intro to the world of renewable energy.

]]> Comment on Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts by Maggie S. http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html/comment-page-1#comment-494 Maggie S. Thu, 04 Nov 2010 11:41:26 +0000 http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/renewable-energy-facts-and-fantasies-the-tough-realities-as-revealed-in-interviews-with-25-subject-matter-experts.html#comment-494 <i>Review by Maggie S. for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Renewable-Energy-Fantasies-Realities-Interviews/dp/0615388353%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJ2X2VM2C6GBRXWHQ%26tag%3Dhtlogwpr-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0615388353" rel="nofollow">Renewable Energy - Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts</a></i> <b>Rating: <img src="http://www.howtoliveoffgridnow.com/wp-content/plugins/WPRobot3/images/5.png" ></b> The author does a great job capturing interviews from energy experts in a range of industries. It's an easy read and much of it is written in a Q&A type format with the author speaking, followed by the interviewee speaking. <br /> <br />This book is a timely piece, particularly since energy and sustainability are big buzz words of our time. This book will leave you ready to have informed discussions on renewable energy and the tough realities of the subject. Review by Maggie S. for Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies: The Tough Realities as Revealed in Interviews with 25 Subject Matter Experts
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The author does a great job capturing interviews from energy experts in a range of industries. It’s an easy read and much of it is written in a Q&A type format with the author speaking, followed by the interviewee speaking.

This book is a timely piece, particularly since energy and sustainability are big buzz words of our time. This book will leave you ready to have informed discussions on renewable energy and the tough realities of the subject.

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