[Bidderswede]

I'm working on a project that involves running a wireless video camera by using a solar panel and rechargable batteries as back up.
The camera runs on 5V, the solar panel is rated for 9V and I'm going to use 6AA rechargable batteries.
I need help with how to connect these so the solar panel can also charge the batteries while running the camera at the same time due to excess power output during sunny days.
I know that I will need a couple of diodes, voltage regulator etc.
Can someone explain/show me how to put this together in the most efficient way?
I do have a breadboard I can use to test this circuit out with.
You probably need some more information from me, but this is all I can think of right now.
Thanks!

[underthetire]

Go down to radio shack, buy a 5 volt regulator and look on the back of the package. It's all right there.

[Al_The_Man]

There are a couple of ways I can think of, how much current does the camera draw at max?
The batteries would total 9v in series but I am not sure if this is practical to charge this way.
Also I guess you just want the solar panel for charging only?
I would suggest the LM317 regulator over the 78 series.
Al.

[007CNC]

You can't accurately charge a 9V battery bank with 9V.
The charging voltage will depend on the battery chemistry -- most likely will be NiMH or lithium ion for consumer rechargable batteries in the size you mentioned. These batteries can easilly be damaged by overcharging or charging with too high current.
I recommend you google the charging profile for the battery chemistry you have and figure out what the recommended charging voltage per cell is. multiply that by the number of batteries to figure out what voltage point to set on your voltage regulator.
This might require more than just slapping a regulator to your batteries. You might need to limit the charging current to avoid battery damage. You might also need to think about protecting the battery from drainage when the voltage from the solar panel falls below the voltage of the battey bank.

[Al_The_Man]

If this is a portable application and you can live with a little larger battery, I think you would be better off using a small 6v Gell Cell.
The charging requirements are not so stringent.
Al.