Newsletters/App Notes
Application Notes and Articles
Winning Contracts with PV Array Testing Performance testing tools and processes can be a differentiating factor for PV integrators and can communicate expectations of quality to suppliers and customers. This white paper provides language that you can use to your advantage in your proposals, including 1) a description of the business benefits of I-V curve tracing, and 2) contractual language specifying the use of I-V curve tracing.
Field Applications of I-V Curve Tracers While indispensible to PV cell and module manufacturing processes, I-V curve tracers have historically held a limited role in the field. Now that the technology is more widely accessible, the role of curve tracers is expanding beyond the laboratory and into field commissioning and maintenance. This article provides an overview of the solutions and techniques.
Guide to Interpreting I-V Curves
Background on DC measurement techniques for testing I-V Curves of PV modules, strings, and arrays. Includes a description of ideal performance and effects of impairments, such as shading, series resistance, loose connections, etc. Also includes description of models that predict performance and comparison to measured results.
Understanding the Solmetric SunEyeA basic introduction to solar access and shade measurements using the Solmetric SunEye. Also included are descriptions of new features for measuring on metal roofs and with an extension kit.
Solar Pro MagazineNovember 2008. Solar Site Evaluation: Tools and Techniques to Quantify and Optimize Production.
Align with Compass / Align with TargetThe normal way of aligning the SunEye is to align it using the compass to point South. "Align with Target" mode provides an alternative alignment to a reference azimuth using other visual information available at the site.
Using Solmetric SunEye results in California’s solar electric incentive programs This application note describes the details of how to extract the SunEye data and input it to either the CSI Calculator or the NSHP Calculator. The Solmetric SunEye measures both solar access and obstruction elevation angles so it provides the data necessary for either calculator.
Understanding orientation issues in solar site analysisThe Solmetric SunEye provides complete solar access and shade analysis in an integrated hand-held tool that can help optimize solar panel system design and installation. This note describes how to measure and account for orientation when using the SunEye.
Photovoltaic Energy ProductionIntroduction to photovoltaic systems and measurements. Shade and solar access for site assessment, and system verification with IV curves acquired with a Performance Analyzer.
Checklist for Preparing to Test PV Arrays PV arrays can be tested very efficiently if the right preparations are in place. This checklist can help you get the most out of your time in the field.
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