The Dare Eclipse DS 20 delivers reliable solar-powered electric fencing for small acreages without grid electricity. This 6V charger puts out 0.06 Joules of fence energy and covers up to 3 acres on clean, single-wire fence — enough shock to control poultry, goats, garden pests, and pets across hobby farms and rural Montana properties.
The built-in 9V solar panel (approximately 1.2W) charges a factory-installed 6V 4.5Ah sealed lead-acid battery, eliminating the hassle of external battery connections. An automatic battery-saver mode extends pulse intervals from 1.4 to 2.0 seconds during cloudy periods, keeping the fence operational when solar charging slows.
Solar Power Performance and Coverage
The Eclipse DS 20 operates on a 9V solar panel rated at approximately 1.2W output, charging an internal 6V 4.5Ah sealed lead-acid battery. This self-contained design means no external wiring or separate battery box to protect from Montana weather.
The charger’s power management stands out. When fully charged, it pulses every 1.4 seconds. During extended cloudy periods, the automatic battery-saver mode stretches intervals to 2.0 seconds, maintaining fence protection while conserving energy. A battery check LED flashes 1-5 times at startup to indicate charge level — critical feedback when checking remote fences.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Stored Energy | 0.07 Joules |
| Fence Energy Output | 0.06 Joules |
| Peak Voltage | 6,000V - 7,000V |
| Coverage | Up to 3 acres |
| Solar Panel | 9V, approx. 1.2W |
| Battery | 6V 4.5Ah sealed lead-acid |
| Normal Pulse Rate | 1.4 seconds |
| Battery Saver Mode | 2.0 seconds |
The DS 20 suits small livestock (sheep, goats), poultry, pet containment, and garden protection from deer and rabbits. It works best on clean, single-wire setups with minimal vegetation contact. Ultra-low impedance technology delivers a strong pulse through light weeds, but heavy vegetation significantly reduces performance.
Dare claims this unit “outperforms competitor energizers rated at 3 miles” — marketing speak that means the 0.06 Joule output punches above its weight class for small-acreage applications.
Installation Requirements and Weather Resistance
Setup demands patience. Keep the power switch in OFF/CHARGE position for 3 to 4 days of full sunlight before first use. Montana’s short summers make proper initial charging critical — don’t rush this step or the battery won’t reach full capacity.
Mount the unit facing south to maximize solar exposure. The built-in bracket slides over T-posts or can be nailed/screwed to wooden posts or walls. The integrated mounting bracket fits standard T-posts, round posts, and flat walls — versatile enough for most fence configurations.
Grounding makes or breaks electric fence performance:
- Minimum requirement: one 4-foot x 1/2-inch galvanized ground rod
- Add extra rods in dry or sandy soil
- Keep ground rods at least 75 feet from residential utility grounds and water pipes
Use 10-14 AWG insulated hook-up wire rated for at least 20,000V for all connections. Standard household wire won’t cut it — the insulation breaks down under fence voltage.
The Polyac-Black housing provides all-weather resistance with UV-resistant shell construction. Built-in lightning protection shields the internal circuitry — essential for Montana’s summer thunderstorms. The modular circuitry design allows for fast field service if components do fail.
Physical specs matter for mounting:
- Dimensions: 11” x 9” x 11”
- Weight: approximately 5 lbs
- Country of origin: Malaysia
The Bottom Line
The Eclipse DS 20 fills a specific niche — small-acreage fencing where grid power doesn’t reach. At 0.06 Joules output, it won’t stop determined cattle or horses, but it delivers enough shock for chickens, goats, and garden pests. The integrated solar panel and battery eliminate external connections that fail in weather. The automatic battery-saver mode keeps fences hot through cloudy spells.
For Montana contractors installing temporary grazing paddocks, protecting gardens from deer, or fencing small livestock areas without power access, this charger does the job. Just respect its limitations — single-wire clean fence only, 3-acre maximum, and light vegetation contact at best.
Periodic maintenance keeps it running: wipe the solar panel with a damp cloth, remove snow in winter, and don’t let the battery stay discharged for long periods. Follow these basics and the DS 20 provides years of reliable service on small Montana acreages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the battery last between charges?
Customer feedback indicates reliable battery life once fully charged. The automatic battery-saver mode extends operation during cloudy periods by increasing pulse intervals from 1.4 to 2.0 seconds. Actual runtime depends on fence load and weather conditions.
Q: Can this charger handle horses or cattle?
Common feedback notes it’s not strong enough for large animals like horses or bulls. The 0.06 Joule output suits small livestock (goats, sheep), poultry, and pest deterrence. Cattle and horses need higher-powered chargers.
Q: What happens if vegetation grows into the fence?
The ultra-low impedance technology delivers a strong pulse through light weeds, but heavy vegetation or tall grass contact significantly reduces performance. The charger works best on clean fence lines.
Q: Does the warranty cover lightning damage?
Yes — the 2-year limited warranty includes coverage for damage caused by lightning. The charger also features built-in lightning protection to prevent surge damage.
Q: What’s included with the charger?
The package includes the Dare Eclipse DS 20 Solar Energizer with factory-installed 6V 4.5Ah rechargeable battery, built-in 9V solar panel, integrated universal mounting bracket, and owner’s manual.
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