Sunbeam Carbon solar panel

Tough+ Carbon

The Carbon panels represent the only sustainable solution to turn your canopy into a power generator.

The Tough+ Carbon series turns your sprayhood and bimini into an efficient solar energy source. This year we've refined the design by upgrading to an internal carbon fiber sandwich construction. This contributes to stiffness while keeping weight down, which is crucial to not straining the fabric. The integration of microprocessors also allows the safe use of both serial and parallel configurations. We call this innovation: Shadow Optimized - IQ.

The addition of soft, transparent edges is critical, not only to protect the material from wear and tear, but also to create a smooth transition from canopy in any color to the panel's uniform black surface.

The 5-dimensional solar panel

The SUNBEAMsystem Carbon series sets the standard for durability and longevity of solar panels on a soft canvas roof. Our unique five-dimensional approach results in exceptional build quality, where every aspect works together to increase overall performance:

1. Reinforced outer protective layer - Our proprietary layer offers unmatched UV protection and transparency, surpassing other types of 'premium' surfaces.

2. Premium Sunpower Cells - These high quality cells offer superior efficiency (more Watts/m2), wider light spectrum absorption, longer life and a deeper black color.

3. Advanced Wiring & Core - Robust internal wiring within multiple protective layers ensures long-lasting performance.

4. Shock-absorbing layer - All solar cells and cables are embedded in a distinctive shock-absorbing material, which improves their durability.

5. Carbon Fiber Sandwich Composite - A lightweight, high-tech core that optimally maintains structural integrity. Almost metallic properties but without the risk of delamination that occurs when combining metal with plastic. Protects the solar panels without weighing down the fabric.

Slim Junction with microprocessor

Shadow optimized with IQ microprocessor

The upgraded Slim Junction Box offers elegant and discreet cable management along with waterproof MC4 connectors, enhanced by a built-in microprocessor we call Shadow Optimized -IQ.

● Discreet and stylish cable routing

● Versatility through microprocessors

Unlike traditional systems that rely on fragile and inefficient diodes, this system is designed for seamless adaptation, supporting both parallel and series configurations with less of the usual power losses and reduced lifetime when using serial connection. Whether your system requires a serial connection for your specialized charge controller or a parallel configuration to maximize energy production over time on a boat, Shadow Optimized - IQ guarantees improved performance and durability. Especially when the choice of charge controller dictates a serial connection. In environments with frequent partial shadows, such as on a boat, we recommend a parallel connection to optimize energy production over time. To facilitate this, consider choosing a Boost charge controller.

Shadow optimization

All SUNBEAMsystem panels with the Shadow Optimized label feature our unique shadow optimization technology. Thanks to a smart division and interconnection of solar cells, they become more resistant to situations where partial shading occurs. This approach creates more individual cell groups on the same surface which improves the yield in partial shading, and enables an even higher daily production.

Tough - Multiple test winner

The Tough solar panels have proven to be absolute winners in several real-world tests. Factory data only tells part of the story; how a solar panel actually performs in real life is the ultimate deciding factor.

Our panels have undergone many independent tests. Highlights from these tests include:

● “Only 13% power loss at an operating temperature of 75oC compared to 25oC.”

● “Measured power perpendicular to the surface was the best of all panels tested.”

● “Walkable and durable flexible solar panel that is easy to install thanks to the exceptionally fine cable connection.”

● “Smallest footprint: best performing in actual measured Watt/m2 compared to the alternatives.”

Series and Cell comparison

Through our partnership with Sunpower, we get special access to solar cells of the absolute highest quality, which significantly raises the quality of our panels. A common misunderstanding is that everyone

Sunpower cells would be equivalent. However, this is not the case, the performance of the less expensive Sunpower cells is not up to the premium cells we use. Especially not when it comes to the majority of important properties. The use of high-quality cells is critical for our solar panels to perform at their peak. Here follows a comparison:

● Lifetime estimate:

This factor assesses the durability of the panel under changing conditions, especially in situations with partial shading. The more expensive, high-quality cells are less sensitive to such conditions, which contributes to longer durability.

● Shadow Optimized Boost:

The premium cells are designed to reduce both heat generation and power loss in partial shading, which in turn enhances the effectiveness of our Shadow Optimizing technology, resulting in even higher energy production.

● Efficiency:

Directly linked to the performance of the solar panel, where a higher efficiency means that more energy is generated from the same surface.

● Aesthetics:

The appearance of the cells is crucial, especially for black panels. High-performance cells are characterized by a deep, uniform black color that enhances the visual experience.

5 year warranty - Tough Carbon

SUNBEAM systems combine cutting-edge technology, superior solar cells and premium materials to create solar panels ideal for harsh environments. SUNBEAMsystemi offers an unmatched 5-year warranty* on all Tough panels, a rarity for thin, lightweight solar panels. Access support

and warranty registration via our free Multi Connect app, which also includes Smart Mobile Home features for remote control and online energy statistics, making system optimization and monitoring easy.

*See manual for terms and conditions and product registration required.

Tips for maximizing the performance of your solar panels

To maximize the yield from your solar panels, install them in unshaded locations, preferably with multiple panels for better coverage. Choosing black panels allows for the integration of the Tough Black Hole solution, which improves aesthetics while allowing larger surfaces to be more easily utilized. For optimal performance on boats or motorhomes, it is recommended to connect the solar panels in parallel. To further increase efficiency, consider using one or more MPPT charge controllers, such as Moonray. These charge controllers are designed for parallel configurations and adapted for single panels or groups of panels. Upgrading to advanced LiFePO4 batteries such as SMART LITHIUM reduces the loss during charging and discharging, offering a quick and easy upgrade of the electrical system.

All SUNBEAMsystems' smart products can offer internet-based control and monitoring. This includes a personalized statistics page that provides information to improve your system's efficiency.

For additional installation and optimization tips, don't hesitate to contact us.

Product information

The Tough Carbon series features stainless snaps and can be installed with either Carbon Velcro Batten or LOXX mounting kits (both sold separately). The cables are 70 cm long and have waterproof MC4 connectors. The included installation manual provides detailed instructions on installation and connections, as well as information on how to register the product to apply for an extended warranty.