Samlex 5W Portable SunCharger Battery Maintainer

The Samlex SC-05 SunCharger is a small portable solar maintainer intended to keep a stored 12V battery from gradually discharging between uses. It works well with boats, cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, service vehicles, and RVs that may sit for extended periods without shore power. The panel connects either through a vehicle-style power socket or directly to the battery with ring terminals. Because it is intended for maintenance rather than rapid recovery, it is best used on a healthy battery that already has a reasonable state of charge.

The semi-flexible panel is built for portable use and incorporates reverse-current blocking so the battery does not feed power back into the panel after dark. Its output is low enough that an additional solar charge controller is not required for the intended maintenance application. A weather-resistant construction helps the panel tolerate outdoor use when it is positioned to receive sunlight. The simple direct-charge design keeps setup straightforward for seasonal storage or equipment that is used only occasionally.

The attached lead is 10 ft long, giving the panel useful placement range when the battery itself is tucked away. Separate short leads provide the power-plug and ring-terminal connection options, so the same maintainer can be used with different storage setups. The panel measures about 8.03 x 11.22 x 0.52 in and weighs roughly 0.8 lb, making it easy to move between vehicles or stow when not needed. Samlex provides a two-year limited warranty for the SunCharger.

• Designed to offset normal self-discharge during storage
• Reverse-current blocking prevents nighttime backfeed
• Includes plug-in and direct-to-battery connection options
• Semi-flexible construction makes the panel easy to position and store

Place the panel where it receives unobstructed sunlight and where the cable can reach the battery without being pinched by doors, hatches, or sharp edges. Confirm that the chosen power socket remains connected to the battery when the ignition is off before relying on the plug-in method. For related charging leads, solar accessories, and maintenance equipment, browse more Battery Charging Accessories.