This brief note examines the characteristics of solar cells from the standpoint of developing a global solar radiation monitor. The study is performed using a simplified photovoltaic test monitor manufactured, a single crystal p-type czochraliski (CZ) silicon solar cell of the construction n+pp++ passivated emitter solar cell coupled to a fluke 73 digital multimeter. The short circuit current density (Jsc) is examined during a complete test day from 8:40 AM to 7:40 PM. Subsequently, the test monitor is used for checking the accuracy of transfer operations of solar radiation. The results obtained by the test monitor utilizing solar cells are good due to: (a) it is simple in construction, (b) it exhibits a good response to all solar radiation variations, and (c) it works without an electric power supply.

Issue Section:
Technical Briefs
Keywords:
digital multimeters, solar cells, solar radiation, solar cell, solar radiation monitor, induced short circuit current
Topics:
Solar cells, Solar radiation, Silicon, Circuits, Crystals, Current density

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Copyright © 2012
 by American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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