Deep Dive: G4E08
The correct answer is A: Series-parallel. The configuration in which individual cells in a solar panel are connected together is series-parallel. Cells are connected in series to increase voltage, and series strings are connected in parallel to increase current. For amateur radio operators, this creates the desired voltage and current for charging batteries. Understanding this helps when using solar panels.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option B (Shunt): Incorrect. Shunt isn't a connection configuration for solar cells - shunt refers to parallel connections or current measurement. Solar cells aren't connected in shunt. Option C (Bypass): Incorrect. Bypass isn't the main connection configuration - bypass diodes are used for protection, but cells are connected series-parallel. Option D (Full-wave bridge): Incorrect. Full-wave bridge is a rectifier circuit, not a solar cell connection configuration. Solar cells are connected series-parallel, then rectified if needed.
Exam Tip
Solar panel cell connections = series-parallel. Think 'S'olar 'P'anel = 'S'eries-'P'arallel. Cells connected in series to increase voltage, series strings connected in parallel to increase current. Not shunt, not bypass, not bridge - just series-parallel.
Memory Aid
Solar panel cell connections = series-parallel. Think 'S'olar 'P'anel = 'S'eries-'P'arallel. Cells connected in series to increase voltage, series strings in parallel to increase current. Standard solar panel configuration.
Real-World Example
A solar panel has 36 cells. They're connected in series (e.g., 18V total) to increase voltage, and multiple series strings are connected in parallel to increase current. This series-parallel configuration provides the desired voltage and current for charging a 12V battery. This is the standard solar panel configuration.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool
Subelement: G4E
Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G4 - Amateur Radio Practices
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G4E topic.