AirGradient Open Air Max: Power, Battery Backup, and Solar
AirGradient Open Air Max: Power, Battery Backup, and Solar
Device Overview
A. Reset Button B. Status LED C. USB Type-C Port D. Battery Power Switch E. Solar Power Input
USB-C Power
The USB-C port (C) powers the device directly and charges the batteries.
Important notes:
The device can run from USB-C even if the battery power switch (D) is OFF.
Battery backup only works if the battery power switch is ON.
USB-C power will not recharge the batteries unless the battery power switch is ON.
USB-C power is recommended for initial testing and for charging the batteries before deployment.
Battery Backup
The Open Air Max ships with the battery backup switched off by default.
To enable battery backup:
Use a paperclip, pin, or small tool to press the battery power switch.
The switch is ON when it is recessed, meaning it has been pushed inward. See this video for guidance.
You should hear a click.
For field deployment, always ensure the battery power switch is ON.
If the battery power switch is OFF, the monitor may still power from USB-C, but it will not continue running from battery backup once USB-C is removed.
Solar Power
The included solar panel connects to the solar power input on the device.
For solar operation:
Connect the solar panel securely to the solar power input.
Make sure the battery power switch is ON.
Place the solar panel where it receives several hours of direct sunlight per day.
The Open Air Max includes a 10W, 18V solar panel and three 18650 batteries.
A fully charged battery can power the device for approximately four to five days without sunlight. In good direct sunlight, the batteries can recharge in several hours.
The device can operate with an average of around one hour of direct sunlight per day. If this is not possible at the installation location, a second solar panel or USB-C power may be required.
When is a second solar panel needed?
A second or more powerful solar panel may be needed in some challenging installation environments, including:
High-latitude locations with weak winter sunlight
Areas with frequent cloud cover, fog, rain, or snow
Partially shaded sites
Installations where the solar panel cannot receive direct sunlight for part of the day
If you use your own solar panel, make sure it is an 18V panel. A second panel can also be added with a splitter cable to provide additional power.
Batteries
The Open Air Max is powered by three 18650 batteries.
If replacing the batteries:
Buy from reputable manufacturers.
Use three identical batteries where possible.
Use batteries with the same capacity.
Use unprotected 18650 batteries.
Protected 18650 batteries are slightly longer and will not fit into the Open Air Max battery slots.
Most reputable 18650 batteries last around 300 to 500 charge cycles. Under normal conditions, replacement should only be needed infrequently.
Solar Panel Life Expectancy
The included solar panel should be able to power the device for at least 10 years.
Solar panel performance slowly degrades over time. If the device starts dropping offline, check whether the solar panel is dirty. Dust, pollen, and other residue can reduce charging performance.