solar cells +reverse current blocking diodes

[johnwilliams]

i have a number of solar cells in storage since early 80'(pre built in blocking diodes era). they output about 25 volts .i bought rectifer diodes
model no in 4002 from maplins .would they stop the current going back up or what should i use .if these are right which side to the positive (the silver or black end of the diode)
as you can see from the above i am not electronically inclined

 

[Leo]

The silver, or striped end is the cathode, or negative side. Looks like the 1N4002 Mapin stock can handle forward or reverse voltages up to 100V, so no worries there.

The concern might be the current, what is the peak output power of these panels? These can only handle up to about an amp, depending on the ambient temperature. So that would limit the power to 25W, which isn't a whole lot.
Leo

 

[johnwilliams]

thanks leo
so the black end should be connected to the positive wire coming from the panel and the silver end connected to the wire going to the battery if i under stand correctly?
peak output power not sure no original documentation. have to get a amp meter or something.
weather like to day won't have to worry about exceeding it.

 

[Leo]

Yep, spot on.

Leo