A solar panel is constructed by electrically connecting one or more banks of solar cells in series, wherein each cell in each bank is electrically connected in series. In some aspects the cells are a quarter of typical full size cells in the direction of current flow. A module senses and controls small signal conduction and total conduction of the panel such that reverse current conduction of a weak or partially shaded cell is prevented, thereby allowing the panel to be constructed without bypass diodes. In some aspects the module prevents damage to the panel by an external inverter's maximum power point experiments; in other aspects the module itself provides maximum power point control.