--- title: "ASM ASM170M 170W Solar Panel - Specs & Review | ComparePV" description: "ASM ASM170M 170W solar panel. Specs: 16.00% efficiency, Monocrystalline cells, dimensions, warranty and temperature coefficient." source: "https://comparepv.com/panel/australian-solar-manufacturing-asm170m" updated: 2026-09-11 --- # ASM ASM170M Middle of its segment, weak in heat 388 panels in the 70-270 W band, all technologies ## Identity - **Manufacturer:** ASM - **Model:** ASM170M - **Series:** ASM170M - **Rated power:** 170 W - **Cell technology:** Monocrystalline ## How it compares Compared against 70-270 W band, all technologies (388 panels). | Measure | This panel | Segment median | Standing | Rank | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Power (Wp) | 170 W | 188 W | Typical | | | Module efficiency | 16.00% | 16.01% | Typical | 13,641 | | Power density | 132.8 | 160.0 | Weak - bottom 6% | 13,947 | | Temperature coefficient | -0.438 | -0.370 | Weak - bottom 5% | 13,849 | | Weight (kg) | 17.0 kg | 12.8 kg | Weak - bottom 9% | | | Performance warranty | - | 25 yrs | | | ### Full peer table | Measure | This panel | Segment median | Standing | Rank | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Module efficiency | 16.00% | 16.01% | Typical | 13,641 | | Power density | 132.8 | 160.0 | Weak - bottom 6% | 13,947 | | Temperature coefficient | -0.438 | -0.370 | Weak - bottom 5% | 13,849 | | Weight per kWp | 100.0 | 69.8 | Weak - bottom 9% | 13,911 | | Performance warranty | - | 25 yrs | | | ### Watch out for - **-0.438 %/°C temperature coefficient** - Bottom 5% of the 70-270 W band, against a median of -0.370. Ranked 13,849th in the whole database. - **132.8 watts per square metre** - Bottom 6% of the 70-270 W band, against a median of 160.0. Ranked 13,947th in the whole database. - **100.0 kg per kWp** - Bottom 9% of the 70-270 W band, against a median of 69.8. Ranked 13,911th in the whole database. - **Best for:** Off-grid. - **Not ideal for:** Hot climates, roofs where every square metre has to count and weight-limited structures. ## Specification ### Electrical - **Rated power (Pmax):** 170 W - **Efficiency:** 16.00 % - **Voltage at Pmax (Vmp):** 38.16 V - **Current at Pmax (Imp):** 4.53 A - **Open-circuit voltage (Voc):** 44.12 V - **Short-circuit current (Isc):** 4.81 A - **Max system voltage:** 1000 V ### Temperature - **Temperature coefficient of Pmax:** -0.438 %/degC - **Temperature coefficient of Voc:** -0.297 %/degC - **Temperature coefficient of Isc:** 0.030 %/degC ### Cell and construction - **Cell type:** Monocrystalline - **Cell count:** 72 ### Physical - **Length:** 1580 mm - **Width:** 810 mm - **Thickness:** 45 mm - **Weight:** 17.0 kg - **Area:** 1.28 m2 - **Power density:** 132.8 Wp/m2 ### Warranty and degradation ## Rank in the whole catalogue | Measure | Position | | --- | --- | | Efficiency | 13641 of 14005 | | Power density | 13947 of 14005 | | Temperature coefficient | 13849 of 14005 | | Weight | 13911 of 14005 | | Warranty | 13880 of 14005 | ## Pros - **TÜV Rheinland and AS/NZS 5033 Certification** - The ASM170M series holds TÜV Rheinland certification (certificate no. 23463) and complies with the Australian AS/NZS 5033 standard for PV modules. This independent quality audit distinguishes it from uncertified budget modules prevalent in the off-grid segment. - **Monocrystalline Cells — Superior Low-Light Performance** - Mono-Si technology delivers significantly higher energy yield under low-irradiance conditions (overcast skies, dawn, dusk) compared to polycrystalline alternatives. This is particularly relevant in mobile applications (RV, yacht) where the module frequently operates outside the optimal angle of incidence. - **Australian Manufacturing Standards** - The manufacturer has been in operation since 2009 and is subject to Australian quality regulations, which are more stringent than those of most Asian markets. Its smaller production scale enables tighter process control, reducing the risk of factory defects common in high-volume, low-cost manufacturing. - **Purpose-Built Design for Mobile and Off-Grid Applications** - The compact 170 Wp form factor is optimized for RV, campervan, and marine systems, where available roof area is limited and the entire module must withstand vibration and variable weather conditions for years without access to maintenance. ## Cons - **16% Efficiency Trails Key Competitors** - Peer comparables JA Solar P2 and MY Solar P2 in the same power class (170 Wp) achieve 17.1% module efficiency. The 1.1 percentage point gap means competing modules occupy approximately 6–7% less area at equivalent output — a meaningful disadvantage in mobile applications where space is at a premium. - **No Tier-1 BNEF Status** - Australian Solar Manufacturing does not appear on the BloombergNEF bankable manufacturers list (Q1 2026). In the context of bank or lessor-financed installations, the absence of Tier-1 status may complicate access to external financing and reduces the manufacturer's perceived long-term credibility. - **Narrow Portfolio — Single 170 Wp Variant Only** - The series offers only one power variant (170 Wp), with no 175 / 180 / 185 Wp options available. For installers requiring flexibility in matching module output to a specific system design, this limitation may direct purchasing decisions toward broader product lines from competitors such as JA Solar P2, which spans multiple power tiers. ## About this series The ASM170M series from Australian Solar Manufacturing is a solution dedicated to places where every centimeter of available surface counts while maintaining maximum energy efficiency. The use of **advanced monocrystalline cells** allows for exceptionally effective energy harvesting even in limited sunlight, which is crucial in the specific Polish climate. These panels stand out with their unique **resistance to extreme weather conditions**, which is a direct result of rigorous production standards and multi-stage testing in harsh environments. This model effectively solves the problem of limited installation space, offering stable power output in a compact form, ideal for off-grid systems, recreational vehicles, campers, or yachts. Unlike standard mass production, the manufacturer focuses on **precise frame finishing and high durability of components**, which effectively minimizes the risk of micro-cracks and the undesirable PID effect. By choosing this specific series, the user invests in **long-term stability of electrical parameters**, which significantly exceeds popular budget solutions on the market. This is a professional proposal for those looking for a reliable power source in locations where servicing is highly difficult and equipment reliability is an absolute priority. The robust mechanical construction guarantees full safety of use for many years, regardless of the intensity of operation in the most demanding terrain. ## Notable figures - Efficiency of 16.0% is 5.8pp below the \*\*database\*\* median (21.8%) - Power density of 132.8 W/m² is 85.3 W/m² below \*\*database\*\* median (218.1 W/m²) - needs more roof space - Temperature coefficient of -0.44%/°C is 0.14pp worse than \*\*database\*\* median (-0.30%/°C) - higher losses in summer heat - 17.0 kg weight - 9.5 kg lighter than \*\*database\*\* median (26.5 kg), reducing installation effort - Ranked #13641 out of 14005 panels for efficiency in the database ## Questions ### Is the ASM170M series still available for sale? The ASM170M series from Australian Solar Manufacturing has been discontinued and is no longer available as a new product through regular distribution. If you require similar specifications, you might consider newer models from ASM or other manufacturers of 170–190 W solar panels designed for off-grid applications. Availability in secondary markets may be limited and is not guaranteed by the manufacturer. ### What are the best applications for the 170W ASM170M panel? The ASM170M panel with a power output of 170 W is primarily optimized for off-grid systems, meaning systems independent of the main power grid. It performs exceptionally well on RVs, camping trailers, boats, and cabins without a connection to the electrical grid. Its compact size and sturdy aluminum frame make it easy to install in spaces with limited area, where every inch of roof or deck space is valuable. ### What is the manufacturer's warranty on the ASM170M panels? Australian Solar Manufacturing offers a 10-year warranty on workmanship and materials defects for the ASM170M series, as well as a 25-year warranty on output power. This warranty guarantees that the nominal output power of 170 Wp will be maintained at a specified percentage for a quarter of a century, which is a standard offered by reputable manufacturers of monocrystalline panels. However, it is important to note that this series has been discontinued, which may make it more difficult to enforce the warranty. ### Does the ASM170M panel perform effectively under low-light conditions, such as in Poland during winter? Yes, the use of monocrystalline cell technology in the ASM170M offers improved efficiency under diffuse and low light conditions compared to polycrystalline cells. This is a significant advantage in the Polish climate, where cloudy days in autumn and winter are the norm. The panel maintains a relatively stable output power even with low solar angles, although the actual output will be proportionally lower under very limited sunlight. ### Is the ASM170M resistant to mechanical damage and harsh environmental conditions? The ASM170M series has undergone rigorous testing by the manufacturer to ensure its resistance to extreme weather conditions. The precisely manufactured aluminum frame and laminate protect the cells from moisture, hail, and strong winds. The manufacturer places particular emphasis on minimizing the risk of cell micro-cracks and PID (Potential Induced Degradation), which is crucial in mobile installations exposed to vibrations, such as those in camper vans or on boats. ### Is the ASM170M a Tier 1 panel, and is it worth investing in? Australian Solar Manufacturing does not appear on the Tier 1 lists of Bloomberg NEF. This indicates a smaller production scale and a different market position compared to giants such as JA Solar and LONGi. However, ASM focuses on quality and Australian quality control standards. The ASM170M series is aimed at users who prioritize reliability in off-grid conditions and have limited equipment maintenance capabilities, rather than those seeking the cheapest budget solution. ## Datasheet [Manufacturer datasheet (PDF)](https://comparepv.com/datasheets/51f628eb1f80b-bfc7e631e3c2.pdf) ## Alternatives | Panel | Power | How it differs | | --- | --- | --- | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M150W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m150w) | 150 W | -20 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M160W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m160w) | 160 W | -10 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M180W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m180w) | 180 W | +10 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M200W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m200w) | 200 W | +30 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M120W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m120w) | 120 W | -50 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M135W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m135w) | 135 W | -35 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [JA Solar NS-220MH-80](https://comparepv.com/panel/ja-solar-ns-220mh-80) | 220 W | Cooler, lighter, +6.1 pp | | [PolyCrown Solar Tech NS-220MH-80](https://comparepv.com/panel/polycrown-solar-tech-ns-220mh-80) | 220 W | Cooler, lighter, +6.1 pp | | [JA Solar NS-210MH-80](https://comparepv.com/panel/ja-solar-ns-210mh-80) | 210 W | Cooler, lighter, +5.1 pp | | [PolyCrown Solar Tech NS-210MH-80](https://comparepv.com/panel/polycrown-solar-tech-ns-210mh-80) | 210 W | Cooler, lighter, +5.1 pp | | [Heckert Solar ZEUS 1.2 FullBlack 280W](https://comparepv.com/panel/heckert-solar-zeus-1-2-fullblack-280w) | 280 W | +110 W, cooler, +7.3 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M285W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m285w) | 285 W | +115 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M240W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m240w) | 240 W | +70 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M260W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m260w) | 260 W | +90 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [Gamko New Energy GKA182M270W](https://comparepv.com/panel/gamko-new-energy-gka182m270w) | 270 W | +100 W, lighter, +7.0 pp | | [DMEGC DM270M10T-B32HBT](https://comparepv.com/panel/hengdian-group-dmegc-magnetics-co-ltd-dmegc-solar-dm270m10t-b32hbt) | 270 W | +100 W, cooler, +6.9 pp | --- Source: https://comparepv.com/panel/australian-solar-manufacturing-asm170m Not in this file, on the page: a thirty-year output simulator and alternatives filtered by how closely they match these dimensions.