Solar Schoolhouse Product Catalog

Solar SchoolhouseProduct Catalogwww.solarshoolhouse.org

Solar CellClassroom SetSolar Cell Classroom Sets have all the equipment to allowhands-on explorations of solar power and electricity. Theycontain enough solar cells, motors, and equipment to engage aclassroom full of students. The User Guide explains how to useand maintain the equipment, and includes a number of studentexercises for developing an understanding of basic electrictheory and the photovoltaic effect.Activities using the Solar Schoolhouse Solar Cell Classroom Setrange from kindergarten classes experiencing the photovoltaiceffect (sunlight makes the motor spin) to colleges and tradeschools plotting the IV curves of solar modules. Students canbuild simple circuits to power a variety of electrical loads. Radios,motors, a water pump, even model cars and homes can bepowered with the Solar Cell Classroom Set. Some classes makesolar power plants to run miniature “utility grids” in theirclassroom.Using this set, students develop their scientific observation skills,meet the standards while studying electricity, and learn aboutrenewable energy sources. Most importantly, these activitiesshow students positive alternatives for our energy future, andfoster optimism, excitement, and a sense of purpose.Solar Cell Classroom Set Includes:• 30 Solar Cells (0.5V/0.4A)• 4 Solar Modules (3V/1A)• 16 Motors (0.5V–5.0V)• Assorted fan blades and wheelsthat attach to the motors• 1 Radio with speakers (3V)• 1 Digital Multimeter• Assorted DC loads:buzzer (4.5V), fan (5V),fan (12V)• 10 Jumper Wires withalligator clips• Sturdy Storage Case• Users’ Guide1 Set: SCS-3Additional solar modules, motors, wheels and fans also available forpurchase separately.“When I saw how interested kids were,it lit a fire under me to educate them aboutconservation and green energy.”Solar Cell Student SetThe Solar Cell StudentSet includes equipment forindividual, hands-onexploration of various solarelectric circuits. Using this set,students can build simple DCseries and parallel circuits, andcan test the performancecharacteristic of silicon solarcells. They can also practicematching a solar voltagesource to a load by building asolar-powered music circuit.The set includes a completeUser Guide including solar electricity theory, project guides, plustroubleshooting and equipment maintenance information.1 Set: SSH-SCSS—Randy S., Construction Instructor,Brawley High School, CA2For pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org

Solar PowerMonitor SetThe Solar Power Monitor is a Plexiglascircuit board with input ports forconnecting solar modules, and outputports for attaching direct currentloads. It has an ammeter and avoltmeter to simultaneously measurecurrent and voltage. There are three DC loads (a light, fan andwater pump) included in the set. Using the monitor, studentsget a feel for how the sun can produce electricity and whatvolts, amps and watts are. The Solar Power Monitor Set is anexcellent companion to the Solar Cell Classroom Set.Solar Power Monitor Set Contains:1 Solar Power Monitor, 8 Solar Modules (3V*1A), 1 Blower Fan,1 Potentiometer, 1 Pump (12V) with 2 feet of vinyl tubing, 1 Fuse Light,10 Jumper Wires with alligator clips, 4 sets of Stackable Jumper Wireswith alligator clips, 1 each: Compass, Protractor, Ruler, User GuideAdditional solar modules, motors, wheels and fans also available forpurchase separately.Solar Power Lunch BoxThis portable, standalone, solar power supply is designed to providepower when you need it for charging your cell phone, mp3/ipod musicplayer, or powering a custom LED night light.The Solar Power Lunch Box Kit contains (3) 1.25 watt @ 12vdc solarlaminates, (1) 12vdc (1.4ah) sealed rechargeable battery, project box,wire terminal, (2) 12vdc auto sockets, USB car charger, a metal lunchbox, and a white LED light assembly. The Lunch Box comes withmounting holes pre-drilled. This nifty emergency preparedness kit evenhas room for a few sandwiches!Some tools required for assembly.1 Kit: SSH-SPLB31 Set: SPM-3Basic KitSolar Whirlygig KitThe solar whirligig projects are a great opportunity for studentsto learn about solar cells with an opportunity to add their owncreativity. The Basic Solar Whirlygig Kit includes a CD, CDmailer box, and a solar education kit with solar cell, motor,wheels, wire & fan. No soldering required. Glue gun optional.You provide pipe cleaners, energy beads, & other items todecorate the CD. The Advanced Solar Whirlygig Kitrequires some soldering and use of hot glue gun. A musicsound module (like those found in greeting cards) is included,along with a dedicated Copper Indium Diselenide (CIS) solar cell.A silicon solar cell powers the motor and CD.Basic Kit: SSH-WGBAdvanced Kit: SSH-WGAAdvanced Kit with Music Circuit (decorated)Solar FountainSculpture SetSolar fountains are a great way to show therelationship solar electric modules have withsunlight. As the solar modules are tiltedmore toward the sun, the water pumpsfaster. Casting a shadow on the modulesslows or stops the water flow. These SolarFountain Sculpture Sets include a 12 volt DC water pump and alarge assortment of clear pipe and connectors to build a widevariety of fountain designs. The components are slip-fit for quickassembly and disassembly, and for easy adjustment of designs.Sets include a complete User Guide with directions for buildingfountains and instructions for beginning and advanced solarelectricity projects.Standard Set can be used with a variety of solar modules you provide.Deluxe Set includes 4 solar modules (3V* 1A) not pictured.Standard Set: SSH-SFSS1Deluxe Set: SSH-SFSS2Basin not included.For pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org3

Boom Box KitMake your own external speakers for your solar charged ipod/mp3 music player. Two speakers + ear buds + a box of yourchoice, add your creativity = your custom boom box. No externalpower is required, with your music player providing the audiopower, and regulating volume. Some soldering required.Speakers come in two sizes:40mm: SSH-BB40, 100mm: SSH-BB100Solar ZipCharger KitBuild your own cell phone or mp3/ipod charger. Any small device thathas it’s own rechargeable batterycan be powered with theZipCharger. Two 1.25 watt @12vdc solar laminates cometogether in this zippered travelwallet, with an auto socket forcharging cell phones. A USB carcharger is included to powerdevices with USB cords (eg. ipod).Wallet colors will vary. Cell phone auto adapter not included.1 Kit: SSH-ZC1‘Steampunk’ CustomSolar Module KitWe call this the ‘steampunk’ solar modulebecause the redwood frame creates theillusion that solar modules were common inthe Jules Verne era. By combining 10 smallsolar laminates (each rated at 1.25 watt @12Vdc) in parallel, a 12.5 watt solarmodule is created, strong enough topower a small fountain, or for use as abattery charger. The kit includes: precutredwood frame components, (10) 12.5watt @12vdc solar laminates, wireterminal, wood screws, alligator clips,and instructions.1 Kit: SSH-CSM101.25 watt SolarLaminatesWe’ve acquired a large quantity of small solar electric modules(laminates). These 1.25 watt (12vdc nominal, 0.09A) moduleswere originally designed to charge a small battery to power aremote GPS signal. The modules have no frame, hence the term“laminates.” The construction represents modern solar moduleconstruction, with mono crystalline silicon solar cells, temperedglass top, standard water tight encapsulation, and 7 ft wireleads with a waterpack connector. Great for solar projects likethe Solar Lunchbox, ZipCharger, and Steampunk projects shownon this page. Dimensions: 210 x 85 x 4 mm (8 5/16 x 3 3/8 x 1/8inch )1 Laminate: SSH-PV1.25w-1, Box of 50: SSH-PV1.25w-504For pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org

Solar Schoolhouse OnlineAcademySolar Schoolhouse Academy provides online courses that make learning aboutsolar and clean energy easy and fun. The concepts are presented in short, easyto understand lessons, with plenty of color illustrations, video clips and simpleanimations.Included in the courses are several hands-on projects to experiment with. Manyof these projects teach real-world principles using simple materials likecardboard, tape and tin foil.So many ways to use the Online Academy:• Perfect for an extra credit project or independent study• Use as an enhancement to classroom curriculum• Educators increase their knowledge, prepare to teach solar, and earn CEUs“The online course was fabulous.”—DeAnn K., Teacher,Twin Rivers USD, SacramentoVisit the Academy athttp://classroom.solarschoolhouse.net“The course is great. I really enjoyed the videoincorporation into the lessons, the visuals are greatand the information interesting.”—Miriam W. Instructor, CSU Monterey BayFor pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org5

Celebrating our 10th Year in 2012!Summer Institute for EducatorsTeachers attending the summer institute will learn about the scienceand history of heating, cooling and powering our homes with the Sun.Participants will build solar cookers, model passive solar homes, solarelectric fountains, custom solar panels, a portable solar power station(Lunchbox!), and more. Held at Rahus Headquarters in Sebastopol, theworkshop is completely solar powered. We’ll evaluate several solar andenergy efficient technologies and design strategies incorporated onsiteincluding: two types of Photovoltaics, heat pump water heater, heatpump heating/cooling, active external shading devices, thermal masswall, daylighting.In addition to learning the science of proper building design (e.g.thermodynamics, electricity, seasonal changes) and how to fit theseexercises into your curriculum, participants will walk away with practicalknowledge (and solar equipment!) that they can apply in their ownlives. While solar energy is a multi-disciplinary subject (math, science,construction, history, policy, etc.), lessons are tailored to your specificdiscipline. Integrating solar energy education into your curriculum canprovide an element of excitement and hope for the future.Sponsorships are available.For more information, or to register visit www.solarschoolhouse.orgOne-day and Half-daySolar Schoolhouse WorkshopsSolar PrimerAn Introduction toSolar Energy, includessolar thermal (building a solar cookerand exploring passive solar designprinciples), and solar electricity(experimenting with solar cells andbuilding a solar whirligig).Solar ArtLearn thefundamentals ofsolar energythrough art. Projectsmay include: solaretching (with magnifying glass), solarbaked clay medallions with energybeads, solar powered whirligig, and/orthe Human Sundial.SolarFountainsPowering a fountaindirectly with solarenergy is a greatway to learn howphotovoltaics work. Both permanentand portable solar fountains areexplored. Workshop generally includesbuilding a custom solar module, andmay include installation of a permanentsolar fountain in a school garden.Solar PoweredEmergency PreparednessFor community or just for teachers.Participants build a portable, standalonesolar powered lunch box that can chargecell phones, mp3 players, and power acustom LED night light.Solar School DataDetectivesMany schools are installing large solarelectric systems to reduce their utilitycosts. This workshop will explore howto evaluate the performance of a schoolsolar system via online data portals.You’ll also learn how to size a solarsystem for your own home.SolarCookingBuild afamily-sizedsolar oven. It’squite amazingto see aninsulated box with a glass-coveredopening reach temperatures of >300F.Participants at this workshop will builda durable, high performing, mediumcost,family-sized solar oven.6For more information, or to register go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org

Classroom Poster SetPhotosynthesis &PhotovoltaicsThe process by which a plant produces itsenergy from sunlight parallels the way aphotovoltaic panel produces solar electricity.This poster presents the various similaritiesand differences between the two processes.22” x 28”Your Solar HomeHighlights many of the topics covered in theYour Solar Home video. It includes photos ofsix homes built for the Solar Decathlon.22” x 28”Sun PowerProvides a detailed description/definition ofphotovoltaics and its applications: directpower, stand-alone (includes battery storage),and grid-tied. 23” x 29”Solar Energy for SchoolsShows how a solar cell works, variousapplications, and how solar electric(photovoltaic) systems work on your home.25.5” x 39”4 Poster Set: SSH-POSTERSET2Join the Solar SchoolhouseEducational CollaborativeResponding to the growing demand for solar energy education, The RahusInstitute has formed the Solar Schoolhouse Educational Collaborative. TheCollaborative is a partnership between solar energy industry companies, utilities,and organizations.During the past decade Solar Schoolhouse has introduced thousands of studentsto renewable energy through our hands-on, project-based curriculum. Becauseenergy lessons learned in school are often shared at home, educating youngstudents effectively raises the energy literacy of the entire household. Betterinformed citizens are more prepared to adopt solar energy for their homesand businesses.“When parents learn we’ll bebuilding model solar homes inclass, I’m flooded with questionsabout solar for their own homes.”—Keith J., 4th Grade Teacher, Lodi, CAYour Membership Supports your Community.Annual membership dues and contributions to the Collaborative will be used todevelop new outreach efforts including, but not limited to:• Solar Schoolhouse Online Classroom• Targeted Teacher Training Programs• Provide Scholarships to Educators for Training• Enhanced Website• Series of webinar courses/presentationsFor more information and to join,contact Tor Allen: 707-829-3154 or tor@rahus.orgFor pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org7

Teaching SolarA Teacher’s Guide to IntegratingSolar Energy into Classroom CurriculumThis guide and DVD present engaging new solar curricula thathave evolved based on the experiences of teachers in theirclassrooms. It details the step-by-step Solar Schoolhouse approachof teaching solar based on experimentation.Although the basic principles for using the sun’s energyare fairly simple, the applications of these principles areconstantly evolving. Nothing gets students, and teachers, moreexcited than to actually experiment with solar technology bypowering electrical loads or cooking with sunlight.Additional Features:• DVD with video tutorials and interviews withteachers discussing their experiences teachingabout solar energy• Worksheets & Project Guides• Outdoor Environmental Activities Guide• Solar Science Fair Project Ideas• Solar Discovery Faire Activities Guide• Solar Schoolhouse Olympics Guidelines• Related National Teaching Standards forElementary, Middle and High School K–12176 Page Book, 50 Minute DVD: SSH-TSSet of 30: SSH-TS-PKG3INCLUDESBonus DVD“The kids have been learning a lot, askinggood questions, and telling their relativesabout what they can do to help our world.”—Alexis R., 8th Grade Teacher, Westminster, CASummer Institute for Educators 2007 Alumni8For pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org

Classroom Curriculum:Your Solar HomeStudent GuidebookThe Art and Science of Heating, Coolingand Powering Your Home with the SunUse this comprehensive textbook in class to teach the scientificprinciples behind the many ways the sun’s energy can be usedto heat, cool and power your home. A perfect resource for renewableenergy year-long, semester-long or module courses. Includesinformative diagrams, review questions, a glossary and 15 solar projects.Topics Include:• Solar orientation through the seasons• Principles of energy and heat transfer• Passive solar heating and cooling• Heating water with the sun• Cooking with sunlight• Solar electricity• Historical references and interesting solar energy factsSpecial Offer!Teaching Solar Package: Get all three books andDVDs on page 8 & 9 for one low package price.Use order code: SSH-TSPKG128 Page Book: YSHG-1, Set of 32: YSH-32Your Solar Home DVDAn introduction to the basic scientific principles and vocabulary ofsolar energy and solar home design. This easy to understand videodemystifies the concepts implemented in solar homes. Includessubtitles in six languages. Use as an introduction to solar energyin your classroom.25 Minute DVD: YSH-DVDFree Teachers’ GuideAvailable for download at www.solarschoolhouse.orgSolar Decathlon DVDA Solar Village on the National Mall18 teams of students from colleges and universities in the U.S., Canada, PuertoRico and Spain, compete to design, build and operate the best solar poweredhome. The concepts of solar home design are brought to life in this moviethat follows the Cal Poly team as they design, build and transport theirhouse to the nation’s capitol. Students will be exposed to the variety ofcareer possibilities in green technology through the interviews of thesecolligate team members.Solar DecathlonThe 2005 International Competition of Solar Home DesignThe companion book includes 142 color photographs and diagrams, aglossary of terms and a parts index.52 Minute DVD + Bonus Features, 96 Page Book: SDO5-PKGFor pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org9

Solar Schoolhouse PartsSilicon Solar Cells0.5v*400mA, with alligatorclips. This solar cell providesthe basic building block forclassroom experiments.Dimensions: 59 x 37 x 2 mm(23/8 x 1½ x 1/16”).Pack of 10: SSH-CELL1-10Solar Education KitDemonstrates the power of thesolar cell to run an electric motor.Great for projects. Kit includes:1V solar cell, motor, fan, andassorted optical wheels.1 Kit: SW828-1Box of 20: SW828-20Solar MotorDC motor operating 0.5 -5v,includes 36” wire with eyelets.Can be used for variousexperiments and projects.SSH-MOTORS-5Kill a Watt MeterPlug in an AC appliance and the LCD displayshows its energy consumption by kilowatthour.View amps, watts, hz, volts andcalculate the electrical usage by the hour,day, week or month. Great tool forconducting energy audits at home or school.KW-MTRSolar Module, 3V*1ASolar Schoolhouse brand 3 watt(3V*1A) silicon solar modulemounted on a fiberglass substrate.Lightweight. Includes alligatorclips. Can be used individuallyto power model solar cars, orcombined to power a solarfountain. Versatile use for solarexperimentation and investigationactivities. Dimensions: 220 x 145x 2 mm (85/8 x 5 11/16 x 1/16”).SSH-3VMOD1“There is a buzz on campus.Students want to know where to sign upfor the ‘solar’ class.”—Wilton G., Calipatria High School, CASummer Institute for Educators 2006 AlumniBlue FansMake your solar motor come tolife with these fans. Available as a10-pack or as combo pack (5 bluefans and 5 yellow wheels).10-Pack: SSH-FANS10Combo Pack: SSH-WF10Yellow Wheels2” diameter wheel fits on thesolar motor. For experiments andprojects. Available as a 10-packor as combo pack (5 blue fansand 5 yellow wheels).10-Pack: SSH-YW10Combo Pack: SSH-WF10Solar Music ModuleWe’ve added wires to this musicmodule (like the ones found in agreeting card) so it can easily bepowered directly by a solar cell.Minimum 1V solar cell required.Module plays “You are my Sunshine.”Single Module: SSH-SM1Pack of 5: SSH-SM5Oven ThermometerThis analog oven thermometer isaccurate, dependable, and great forSolar Oven projects. Capacity: 100 -600°F (40 - 310C) in 5°F (5C)increments. Dimensions: 2¼”diameter.Durable stainless steel.Single Thermometer: SSH-OTH1Box of 6: SSH-OTH610For pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org

Solar Schoolhouse AccessoriesEveryday is a sunny day when you’re wearing these cool Rahus and Solar Schoolhouse accessories.Solar Schoolhouse ShirtLong sleeve denim shirt has the SolarSchoolhouse logo embroidered over thebreast pocket. Available in adult sizes:medium, large, and extra-large. Pleasespecify size when orderingSSH-SH-SZSolar Schoolhouse HatCanvas “outback” style hat withchin strap and embroidered SolarSchoolhouse logo. One size fits all.SSH-HATRahus Sun GodTee ShirtCream-colored shortsleeve tee has the Rahuslogo on front and thename of a varities of sunGods screenprinted on the back. Available inadult sizes: medium, large, and extra-large.Made of soft organic cotton. Please specify sizewhen ordering.RSGT-SZSolar Schoolhouse PinEnamel pin with the Solar Schoolhouselogo. 1” diameter (shown actual size)SSH-PINSolar Schoolhouse PatchFully embroidered patch with the SolarSchoolhouse logo. 2½” diameterSSH-PATCHSolar Schoolhouse CalendarSince 2005, Solar Schoolhouse has published it’s annual calendar. Each year has a different theme involving solar energy and renewableresources. Each month explores a topic within the theme. The full color calendars appeal to a variety of audiences and are designed to befun, useful and informative.A copy of our current year’s calendar will be sent with each order.Electronic versions of current and past calendars are available online at www.solarschoolhouse.org.Walking the WalkSolar Schoolhouse2012 CalendarReal People Making a DifferenceFor pricing information and to order go to: www.solarschoolhouse.org11