What is a Solar Table?

A solar table is a group of solar cells used to capture sunlight and convert it into energy — the solar-powered kind. This process, commonly recognized as solar power, has seen an increase in use and efficiency since the original patent of the solar cell by Russel Ohl in the 1940's.

When sunlight hits a solar table and its assortment of solar cells, the photons in the sunlight pass through a conducting material, commonly silicon. When the silicon absorbs the photon, the process of creating energy begins. While passing through the silicon, the atoms in the photons lose their electrons. These electrons then travel through the solar cell, which converts them into direct current electricity.

Solar tables are used in a variety of technologies. In its one of its simplest and earliest uses, solar cells were used to power pocket-sized calculators. While the solar-powered calculator is a rather simple machine, solar tables are also used to power more advanced pieces of technology. Many satellites, for example, are powered using a solar table with an array of solar cells.

Although solar panels have long received recognition for commercial purposes, solar table technology also has appeal for those in the private sector. Homes equipped with a solar table system can save as much as 80% on their energy bill. There are, however, several factors to consider before getting your own personal table. It is important to determine just how much energy your home uses. Also, it is in the homeowner's best interest to only consider solar table systems from reputable companies. Don't expect to save money immediately; converting a home to solar power can be expensive and usually only pays off after some time.

Solar cells have been proposed as a replacement for more conventional fossil fuel products. Several companies are working to develop solar-powered automobiles. While this technology is not at level to replace or properly compete with its commercially available, gas-powered counterparts, research and development is ongoing.

Other commercial uses for solar tables include cell phone chargers. Solar power tables are available for some cell phone models only. Also, solar tables can be used to power laptops and televisions.

One of the largest, if not the largest, solar table arrays in the world is in Fontana, California. The array, which is stationed atop 600,000 square feet (about 55,742 square meters) of a commercial roof, provides power for more that 160,000 homes in California.