Parmak Solar Pak 6 (Model DF-SP-LI) – Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger, UL Listed, 0.2 Joules
Parmak’s weatherproof and portable Solar Pak 6 is a good choice for powering a baited deer fence where weeds are not a problem. Under perfect conditions this electric fence charger can charge 25 miles of fence consisting of a single 12.5 gauge steel wire. The unit includes a solar panel and comes with Parmak’s 6-volt absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery inside its case. Voltage data: Parmak reports that the Solar Pak 6 will maintain 9000 volts (more than enough to shock any animal) across an open circuit. It also notes, however, that even a minor problem can change the situation. For example, a mild weed burden providing a 500-ohm path to the ground will reduce the line voltage to 2650 volts, which is still enough to shock deer with a baited electric deer fence, where a minimum of 2500 volts are needed, but well below the 4000 volts needed to shock deer with an unbaited electric deer fence and not much more than the 2000 volt minimum needed to reliably shock horses. The Solar Pak 6 is rated by us at about 0.2 joules. Other animals: This electric fence charger can conveniently be used to contain dogs and to protect gardens from dogs and smaller wildlife such as woodchucks, raccoons, and rabbits. Where weeds leaning on the charged wires are not an issue this electric fence charger is suitable for containing pigs and cattle and for keeping out javelinas, feral pigs, and wolves. It is also useful for powering horse fences surrounding small to medium pastures and other enclosures where grounding conditions are reasonably good and the anticipated weed burden is light. For more about this charger and horses click here. General data: The Solar Pak 6, which features a recently redesigned solar panel and built-in performance meter, will operate for 21 days in total darkness. The unit comes enclosed in a case with a lifetime manufacturer’s guarantee against rust and uses a sealed, rechargeable 6-volt solar battery (item 01-17) inside the case as its intermediate power source. The unit comes with instructions and a two-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects and lightning damage. Solar panel and 6-volt AGM battery included. Estimated battery life is 3 to 5 years so long as the charger is operated continuously (inactive storage will cause the battery to discharge and will reduce its life). The battery should not be allowed to freeze, but so long as the battery is fully charged it can resist freezing temperatures as low as minus 70ºF (a fully discharged battery can freeze at 15ºF).
