How to use a Tapo Solar Panel with Tapo Battery-Powered Security Cameras

Step 1: Position the Solar Panel

The position and tilt angle of the solar panel have a significant effect on solar efficiency.

1. Choose a location where the solar panel receives the most sunlight throughout the year.

2. Position the panel south-facing in the Northern Hemisphere or north-facing in the Southern Hemisphere. The recommended tilt angle between the panel and the horizontal ground is 35° ~ 45°.

3. Regularly wipe the panel clean to remove dust and debris. As they accumulate, dust and debris can reduce solar charging efficiency.

Step 2: Mount the Solar Panel

The Tapo A201 is used as an example in this case.

Scenario 1. Mounting the Solar Panel Only

1. Drill Holes

Stick the mounting template to a solid and level wall surface. Drill three screw holes according to the template.

2. Mount Bracket

Insert three wall anchors into the holes and use the mounting screws to affix the solar panel bracket over the anchors.

3. Install Solar Panel

Slide the solar panel onto the mounting bracket until it clicks into place.

4. Adjust Angle

Loosen the adjustable screw, tilt the solar panel to adjust the angle, and then tighten the adjustable screw.

The recommended tilt angle between the panel and the horizontal ground is 35° ~ 45°.

5. Install Screw Caps & Base Cover

Insert two screw caps into the screw holes until flush, then install the base cover.

Screw Cap Orientation 

Scenario 2. Mount Solar Panel & Extra Camera

1. Drill Holes

Stick the mounting template to a solid and level wall surface. Drill three screw holes according to the template.

2. Install Camera Bracket

Secure the camera bracket to the solar panel bracket using two screws.

The third hole below is for securing the solar panel bracket.

3. Mount Solar Panel Bracket

Insert three wall anchors into the holes and use the mounting screws to affix the solar panel bracket over the anchors. Then, insert two screw caps into the upper screw holes until flush.

Screw Cap Orientation 

4. Install Solar Panel

Slide the solar panel onto the mounting bracket until it clicks into place.

5. Adjust Angle

Loosen the adjustable screw, tilt the solar panel to adjust the angle, and then tighten the adjustable screw.

The recommended tilt angle between the panel and the horizontal ground is 35° ~ 45°.

6. Install Camera & Adjust Angle

Install the camera onto the bracket and adjust the camera angle per the camera's guide.

Note: Ensure the camera is securely attached to the camera bracket by tightening the bottom screw.

Scenario 3. Mount Solar Panel and Camera KIT

1. Drill Holes

Stick the mounting template to a solid and level wall surface. Drill three screw holes according to the template.

2. Mount Bracket

Insert three wall anchors into the holes and use the mounting screws to affix the solar panel bracket over the anchors. Then, insert two screw caps into the upper screw holes.

3. Install the Solar Panel

Slide the solar panel onto the mounting bracket until it clicks into place.

4. Adjust Angle

Loosen the adjustable screw, tilt the solar panel to adjust the angle, and then tighten the adjustable screw.

The recommended tilt angle between the panel and the horizontal ground is 35° ~ 45°.

5. Install Camera & Adjust Angle

Install the camera onto the bracket and adjust the camera angle as per the camera's guide.

Note: Ensure the camera is securely attached to the camera bracket by tightening the bottom screw.

Step 3: Connect the Solar Panel to the Camera

The gasket protects your camera from exposure to moisture and dust that may damage it. Choose the correct one based on your camera’s charging port.

For detailed instructions, please refer to How to connect Tapo Solar Panel to compatible Tapo devices with proper Waterproof Gasket