Polycrystalline Solar Cell 6"x6" or 156x156mm with 3BB
156x156 mm (6x6 inch) polycrystalline solar cell rated 4.55-4.67 Wp with 3 busbars. Nominal values: Vmp 0.544 V, Imp 8.44 A, Voc 0.64 V and 18.7% efficiency.
Suitable for DIY photovoltaic modules, prototypes, STEM labs and repairs designed around a 3BB layout. This is a bare cell and requires ribbon, soldering, support and encapsulation.
The 156x156 mm 3BB polycrystalline solar cell is a full-size 4.55-4.67 Wp cell for DIY photovoltaic modules, prototypes and repairs designed around three busbars. The 6x6 inch format provides 8.44 A at maximum power, while the nominal Vmp of one cell is approximately 0.544 V.
It is not a ready-to-use panel. A reliable module requires compatible tabbing ribbon, controlled soldering, mechanical support, insulation, a transparent front layer, backsheet and encapsulation against moisture and impact.
When should you choose a 156x156 mm 3BB cell?
The 3BB format is intended for modules and repairs built around three main current-collection lines. It is not automatically interchangeable with a 5BB cell: ribbon layout and mechanical compatibility differ even when nominal size and power are similar.
Before replacing a cell in an existing panel, compare technology, dimensions, busbar count, current, thickness and polarity. A mismatched cell may reduce output and create hot spots.
SC1P3-156x156 technical specifications
| Reference | SC1P3-156x156 |
| Technology | Polycrystalline silicon |
| Rated power Pmax | 4.55-4.67 Wp |
| Maximum-power voltage Vmp | 0.544 V |
| Maximum-power current Imp | 8.44 A |
| Open-circuit voltage Voc | 0.64 V |
| Short-circuit current Isc | 8.98 A |
| Nominal efficiency | 18.7% |
| Busbars | 3BB |
| Nominal size | 156x156 mm, about 6x6 inches |
| Thickness | 170 ± 20 µm |
| Cell weight | About 14 g |
What do 12, 24 or 36 cells produce?
Series connection adds voltage while current remains that of one cell. These are theoretical nominal values before temperature, mismatch, ribbon and encapsulation losses.
| Cells in series | Nominal Vmp | Nominal Voc | Approximate power |
| 12 | About 6.53 V | About 7.68 V | 54.6-56.0 Wp |
| 24 | About 13.06 V | About 15.36 V | 109.2-112.1 Wp |
| 36 | About 19.58 V | About 23.04 V | 163.8-168.1 Wp |
To increase current, complete and electrically matched strings may be connected in parallel. Include the charge controller, required diodes, cable size, protection and actual load voltage in the design.
STEM projects and educational photovoltaic kits
A full-size cell is useful for experiments on the photovoltaic effect, current-voltage behaviour, shading and series/parallel connections. Students can compare one cell with a string and measure mismatch losses.
Discover The Sun in the Classroom and MR WATT educational photovoltaic kits
How to solder solar cells
The wafer is thin and fragile. Use compatible ribbon and flux, a clean tip, controlled temperature and short contact times. Never press on the cell or lift it by one corner. Check continuity, polarity and string voltage before encapsulation.
Read the MR WATT solar-cell soldering guide
Handling and protection
A bare cell is not waterproof and cannot withstand impact, twisting or hail by itself. Outdoor use requires a module structure that keeps the cells flat, protects the interconnections and prevents moisture ingress.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a complete solar panel?
No. It is one 4.55-4.67 Wp cell. A panel requires multiple cells, interconnections, support, protection and encapsulation.
Can I replace a 5BB cell with this 3BB cell?
Not automatically. Busbar geometry and ribbon layout differ. Compatibility must be checked against the original module.
How many cells are needed for a nominal 12V panel?
Small modules often use 24 or 36 cells in series, depending on the required voltage and controller. With 36 cells, nominal Vmp is about 19.58 V.
Can I use it to repair a panel?
Only if technology, size, current, busbars and electrical characteristics match the original cells. A mismatched replacement can create hot spots.
Can it be used outdoors without protection?
No. The bare cell must be encapsulated and protected from moisture, impact and mechanical stress.
