PVPM 2540C

6020C
1000C
1000C40
Peak Power Measuring Device
for PV-Modules

Users Manual
07 / 2009
PV-Engineering GmbH
Augustastrae 24
58641 Iserlohn
Germany
Tel. +49-2371-1595347
Fax. +49-2371-1595348
e-mail [email protected]

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Contents
1 SOFTWARE END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT........................................ 5
2 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................ 6
3 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS............................................................................... 8
4 OPERATION OF THE PVPM1000C...............................................................
4.1 GENERAL HINTS................................................................................................
4.2 CONNECTING PERIPHERAL DEVICES.......................................................................
4.3 POWER SUPPLY.................................................................................................
4.4 CONNECTING A PC............................................................................................
4.5 CONNECTING THE SOLAR GENERATOR...................................................................
4.6 CONNECTING THE COMBINATION SENSOR...............................................................
4.7 TURNING ON....................................................................................................
4.8 KEYS..............................................................................................................

11
11
12
13
13
14
15
15
16

4.8.1 Test............................................................................................. 16
4.8.2 ESC.............................................................................................16
4.8.3 HOME........................................................................................ 16
4.8.4 ENTER....................................................................................... 16
4.8.5 Arrow keys..................................................................................16
4.9 MEASUREMENT................................................................................................. 17
4.10 MENUS.......................................................................................................... 17

4.10.1 Menu New measurement......................................................17

4.10.1.1 Menu Single measurement....................................................... 17
4.10.1.2 Menu Rs measurement............................................................. 17
4.10.1.3 Obj. Index.................................................................................... 18

4.10.2 Menu Stored meas............................................................... 18

4.10.3 Menu Transfer..................................................................... 19
4.10.4 Menu Service....................................................................... 19
4.10.4.1 Menu Select sensor..................................................................
4.10.4.2 Menu Show version.................................................................
4.10.4.3 Menu Reset obj. index ..............................................................
4.10.4.4 Menu Set Date/Time.................................................................
4.11 MESSAGES.....................................................................................................

19
19
19
20
20

5 EXTERNAL SECURITY SWITCH 1000V / 20A............................................ 22

6 PARAMETERS AFFECTING THE ACCURACY OF THE
MEASUREMENT................................................................................................. 23
7 INSTALLATION OF THE TRANSFER SOFTWARE PVPM.DISP............ 26
8 OPERATION OF THE TRANSFER SOFTWARE PVPM.DISP................... 28
8.1 MAIN MENU.................................................................................................... 29
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8.2 FILE................................................................................................................ 29

8.2.1 Open........................................................................................... 29
8.2.2 Save as....................................................................................... 29
8.2.3 Browse........................................................................................30
8.2.4 Export.........................................................................................30
8.2.5 Print........................................................................................... 31
8.2.6 Printer Settings.......................................................................... 31
8.2.7 Quit Program............................................................................. 32
8.3 EDIT............................................................................................................... 32

8.3.1 Cut..............................................................................................32
8.3.2 Copy........................................................................................... 32
8.3.3 Insert.......................................................................................... 32
8.4 OPTIONS.......................................................................................................... 32

8.4.1 Start Measurement on PVPM / Button Measure.................. 33

8.4.2 Manage Files on the PVPM1000C............................................ 33
8.4.3 Synchronize PVPM to PC date/time.......................................... 34
8.4.4 Modify PVPM sensor database..................................................34
8.4.5 Calculate internal series resistor............................................... 35
8.4.6 Continous measurement.............................................................35
8.4.7 Settings....................................................................................... 36
8.4.7.1 Select Serial Port...........................................................................
8.4.7.2 Working directory.........................................................................
8.4.7.3 Dialog language.............................................................................
8.4.7.4 Temperature correction..................................................................

36
36
36
37

8.4.8 Firmware-Update.......................................................................37
8.5 GRAPHICS........................................................................................................ 37
8.5.1.1 MPP display on/off (button Show MPP).................................... 38
8.5.1.2 Theo. curve on/off (button Eff. curve)....................................... 38
8.5.1.3 Show STC curve on/off (button STC curve).............................. 38
8.5.1.4 Show power on/off (button ......................................................... 38
8.5.1.5 Zoom on/off (button Zoom max)............................................... 38
8.5.1.6 Legend on/off (button Legend).................................................. 38
8.5.1.7 Copy to clipboard (button Clipb)............................................... 39
8.6 RESULTS / LISTS............................................................................................... 39
8.7 HELP (NOT YET IMPLEMENTED)............................................................................ 40

8.7.1 Contents..................................................................................... 40
8.7.2 Search.........................................................................................40
8.7.3 Use help......................................................................................40
8.7.4 Info............................................................................................. 40
9 HARDWARE INFORMATION........................................................................ 41
9.1 MEASURING UNIT:............................................................................................. 41
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9.2 CALCULATION UNIT:..........................................................................................

9.3 DISPLAY:.........................................................................................................
9.4 OPERATION:.....................................................................................................
9.5 POWER SUPPLY:................................................................................................
9.6 DIMENSIONS ....................................................................................................
9.7 OPERATION CONDITIONS:....................................................................................

42
42
42
42
42
43

10 LIST OF SYMBOLS........................................................................................ 44
11 REASONS FOR DECREASED POWER AND YIELD OF PV
GENERATORS..................................................................................................... 45
12 SAMPLE CURVES.......................................................................................... 47
13 GLOSSARY......................................................................................................
13.1 AZIMUTH (SS) AND ELEVATION ()......................................................................
13.2 SLOPE OF THE ROOF.........................................................................................
13.3 DC..............................................................................................................
13.4 DEGRADATION CHARACTERISTIC..........................................................................
13.5 DIRECT RADIATION/ DIFFUSE RADIATION...............................................................
13.6 GENERATOR....................................................................................................
13.7 GLOBAL/TOTAL RADIATION................................................................................
13.8 SHORT-CIRCUIT CURRENT AND SOLAR CELLS..........................................................
13.9 MISMATCHING.................................................................................................
13.10 MPP..........................................................................................................
13.11 TRACKING....................................................................................................
13.12 PEAK POWER................................................................................................
13.13 PERFORMANCE RATIO.....................................................................................
13.14 PHOX-SENSOR...............................................................................................
13.15 INTERNAL SERIES RESISTANCE...........................................................................
13.16 SOLAR CONSTANT.........................................................................................
13.17 SOLAR IRRADIATION / INSOLATION.....................................................................
13.18 CURRENT-VOLTAGE-CHARACTERISTIC................................................................

51
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52
53
53
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53
54
54
54
55
55
56
56
57
57

14 APPENDIX A.................................................................................................... 58
14.1 DISPLAY LAMPS IN THE PANEL:........................................................................... 58
14.2 SPEAKER SIGNALS:........................................................................................... 58

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Software End User License Agreement

1 Software End User License Agreement

LICENSE GRANT
The accompanying software and associated
documentation ("Software") are proprietary
products owned by PV-Engineering GmbH
and protected under international copyright
law. You may not remove any product
identification, copyright notices, or other
notices or proprietary restrictions from the
Software.
Use of the Software is defined to be use and
distribution consistent with the following
conditions.
You or any person under your authority or
control may:
Make copies of the Software for backup
purposes provided said copies contains all of
the original Software's proprietary notices;
Use the Software only on computers
owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by you
and only on one computer at a time;
Use the Software on a network, provided
that a licensed copy of the Software has been
acquired for each person permitted to access
the Software through the network;
Distribute or redistribute data files
generated by the Software;
You or any person under your authority or
control may not:
Copy or use the Software except as
authorized under this License Grant;
Use on two or more computers at a time
without separate authorization and the
payment of additional license fees;
Distribute or redistribute any part of the
Software or Files except as described above;
Permit other individuals to distribute or
redistribute any part of the Software or Files;
Modify, translate, reverse engineer,
decompile, disassemble, or create derivative
works based on the Software or Files;
Copy the Software or Files; rent, lease,
grant a security interest in, or otherwise
transfer rights to the Software or Files; or
remove any proprietary notices or labels on
the Software or Files.

You agree to comply fully with all laws and

regulations to assure that neither the
Software, nor any direct product thereof, is
exported, directly or indirectly, in violation of
law.
TERMINATION
This license granted hereunder will terminate
automatically if you fail to comply with the
limitations described herein. Upon
termination, you must destroy all copies of
the Software.
LIMITED WARRANTY
PV-Engineering GmbH makes no warranties,
including warranties of merchantability and
fitness for a particular purpose. Any remedy
under this warranty is limited to return of the
software and the user manual to the dealer or
to PV-Engineering GmbH for replacement or
refund. This warranty is valid for 90 days
from your date of purchase. PV-Engineering
GmbH excludes any warranty coverage for
incidental or consequential damages. Some
states do not allow limitations on implied
warranties, so some of the above limitations
may not apply to you.
TRADE MARKS
Borland is a trade mark of Borland Inc.
MS-DOS, MS-Windows are trade marks of
Microsoft Corporation
Iserlohn, 20.06.2003

EXPORT
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Introduction

2 Introduction
The devices of type PVPM enables the measurement of the I-Vcurve of photovoltaic modules as well as of strings. By a new
developed procedure the device can measure and calculate the
peak power Ppk, the Rs and Rp directly at the place of assembly
of the PV system. Calculation results and the diagram can be
displayed on the internal LCD-display.
The peak power is the power of a module under Standard Test
Conditions (STC) [1]. So far the very sumptuous measurement
of the peak power was possible only in particularly suited
laboratories. By a new procedure [2], which was developed by
Professor Wagner at the University of Applied Sciences
Dortmund (patented), the measurement with the PVPM can
easily be performed. So the quality control of a PV system can
be executed fast and economically. This simple and meaningful
check in practice serves the certainty of the customer and also
that of the installer. Beyond that the measured I-V-curves permit
further explanations about the electrical characteristics of the
verified module or string. So the PVPM is suitable as well as an
instrument in research as for development purposes.
The PVPM is a mobile measuring device with integrated battery
supply and battery charger in a durable metal housing. The
device has its own industrial miniature PC and a high-contrast
LCD display and thus its function is independent of other
devices. However if desired a PC can be attached for data
transfer and further analysis of the measured values over a
standard interface.
The PVPM is operated comfortably over few keys and an onscreen menu. The functions are defined self-describing and the
user is always led by the program. So no long training activities
for the operating staff are necessary.

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Introduction

Description of the measurement

The PVPM automatically measures the I-V-characteristic of the
generator at a capacitive load. From the measured data it
calculates the effective solar cell characteristic, Ppk and Rs. [2],
[3]. After the measurement the data are stored automatically in a
non-volatile storage and so are available also later (e. g. in the
office) [4]. The device internally stores the data of more than 100
measurements.
The following results are displayed:
Permanent values:
Peak Power PPk
Internal Series Resistance Rs
Internal Parallel Resistance Rp
Current values, depending on irradiation and temperature:
Vpmax , Ipmax , Pmax
Voc , Isc , FF, Tmod , Eeff
The determined I-V-characteristic can also be shown directly on
the LCD display.
[1]

IEC60904-3: STC= Irradiance 1000 W/m2, Spectrum AM=1.5, Cell Temper. 25C

[2]

Wagner A.: Peak Power and Internal Series Resistance Measurement under Natural
Ambient Conditions. EuroSun Copenhagen 2000

[3]

Bendel C., Wagner A.: Photovoltaic Measurement relevant to the Energy Yield. WCPEC3 Osaka 2003

[4]

Schulte K.M., Wagner A.: Die Effektive Solarzellenkennlinie. - Anwendung TeillastBerechnung. Staffelstein. 2002

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Safety Requirements

3 Safety Requirements
Before the first use of the PVPM1000C read this manual
carefully and completely. It contains important hints to avoid
damage to persons or the measuring device. These hints are
emphasized by a frame around the text and should be paid
attention to.
The program PVPM.disp requires a PC with hard disk and MS
Windows 9x or NT and a mouse device. The connection of
the PVPM1000C requires a free serial interface. Please be sure
that this interface has no interrupt conflicts with other devices in
the PC.
The required free space on the hard disk before installing
PVPM.disp is about 2 MB. Please be sure later on that there is
enough room on the hard disk before storing measured data.
The program stores important values in a file named
PVPMdisp.ini. Do not modify this file manually, this could affect
the normal operation of the program!
Attention: For the purpose of data security we would like to point
out the importance of saving the database of the program
regularly on another data medium, so in the event of damage
you will be able to continue working without considerable data
loss. Such a damage can not be excluded even under the
present state-of-the-art. Please do not restore single data files,
but always the complete data back-up of the program, otherwise
you might cause malfunction, this in turn might lead to data loss!
In case of doubt please contact the distributer or the producer.

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Safety Requirements

! WARNINGS !
To disregard the following information can lead
to severe injury and even entail a peril to life
This device may never be utilised close to
inflammable gases.
Keep children and infants away from the measuring
equipment!
The measuring device may not be used in locations
with intense dust exposure or high humidity. No
fluids may reach the interior of the measuring
device.
At appearance of unusual sounds, the development
of smell or smoke the device has got to be
switched of immediately, the circuit breaker and the
current source have got to be disconnected.
If the conducting wires of the measuring device are
damaged they have to be replaced. Mending the
wires is not admissible.

The current measurement input may only be

attached to a limited source of direct current
(Photovoltaic-Generator) with at most 20A (40A
with PVPM2540C)! The junction of other
sources can lead to demolition of the device!
For security reasons only qualified personal must
establish the cable connection between the PV
generator and the PVPM security switch! The
measurement
should
be
carried
out
or
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Safety Requirements

accompanied by qualified personal. Additional

qualifications and laws (e.g. VDE 0100) have to be
observed, otherwise high currents and voltages
involve danger of life!
The PVPM1000C and all devices being part of it may be
opened and repaired by authorized qualified personal only.
Before opening a case every cable connection must be
disconnected!
The solar generator possibly can generate very high
tensions and currents, which can affect your health when
you do not handle with care!

!! VERY IMPORTANT !!
Never plug in or remove the cable connectors
between solar generator and PVPM1000C before
the solar generator is deactivated! A security
switch added to the measurement line allows the
simultaneous
disconnection
and
the
safe
connection of measuring wires to the PVPM.
The PVPM will make a short circuit during measurement
or due to wrong polarization, and when you tear of a
cable under this condition, a light arc can arise and can
cause serious damage to health and material! After the
generator is deactivated you can remove the cable
connection without harm.

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Operation of the PVPM1000C

4 Operation of the PVPM1000C

4.1 General Hints

The PVPM1000C, as nearly all electronic measuring device, can
only operate in a defined temperature range (see appendix).
That is why the PVPM1000C should not be exposed to direct
sunlight over a longer period. Keep the device in a shady place
or protect it from direct sunlight using a sunshade.
The standard version of PVPM1000C can not be integrated into
other devices or e.g. brackets. It is very important that the air can
move free around the case so a proper cooling is guaranteed!
Only if the PVPM1000C is completely out of operation (even no
charging) it may be stacked.
Attention: Never loosen a cable connection during
measurement! The considerable dc tensions and currents
can cause a light arc which can be the reason for fire and
serious injuries! (see chapter 3)
The front panel of the PVPM1000C is rather rough, but you
should handle it with care anyway. To avoid damage of the front
panel please take notice of the following hints:

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General Hints

Do not touch the front panel with a sharp or pointed object.

This could force scratches and might even destroy the foil
especially in the regions with keys in the back.

Clean the surface with a soft and not to wet tissue. Do not
use materials that can scratch, especially on the cover of the
display. A scratched display cover will dramatically affect the
display quality.

The case is not water proofed. Do not expose the PVPM1000C

directly to rain or similar influence.
For a good measuring quality the sun irradiance during the
measurement should be above 500 W/m2. Measurements are
possible below this irradiance value, but less precise.
For the determination of Rs the two necessary I-V-Curves must
be measured at different irradiances. The difference should be
more than 10%.

4.2 Connecting Peripheral Devices

For a measurement the following components are necessary:
Peak power measuring device PVPM1000C (measurement of
I-V-curve,
display of
Ppk)
Phox sensor
with Pt1000
temperature
sensor
external
security switch
1000V / 20A
(see chapter
5)
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Connecting Peripheral Devices

of course the module to be measured and the cable

connection to PVPM1000C
optional: External PC for the operation of the measurement
and evaluation of the measured data
The PVPM1000C is equipped with the following input/output
interfaces (you find all interfaces besides the grid connection at
the front panel, they are all marked):
Interface
Grid
Temperature
Irradiance
4-wire-measurement
Current input
PC
(LPT1)

Function
At the back, connection to 230V/50Hz grid power
Temperature sensor
Combined sensor
Phox sensor
Voltage input
Current input
Connection to PC (AT Cross cable 9-Pin)
optional: at the back of the case

4.3 Power Supply

The PVPM1000C contains a accumulator which lets it become
independent from grid power supply. The accumulator can be
charged by the integrated charge unit. For this purpose you must
connect the PVPM1000C to the grid power. After switching on
the grid power on the back side of the case the accumulator is
loaded automatically. The loading state is displayed by a LED at
the front of the device.

4.4 Connecting a PC
The PVPM1000C can operate independent from a external PC.
For an extended evaluation of the measured data or just for
controlling the PVPM1000C from the PC you can connect the PC
to the PVPM1000C: Put the delivered cable (SUB-D 9B / SUB-D
9B) to a free serial port of your PC and to the PC connector at
the PVPM1000C.
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Connecting a PC

Caution: before you can control the PVPM1000C from a PC

with PVPM.disp it is necessary to select the menu option
transfer on the PVPM1000C. Otherwise the PC can not
access the device.

4.5 Connecting the Solar Generator

Important: during a measurement the solar generator to be
measured must be disconnected from all other devices like
batteries, inverters or loads. The PVPM1000C will make a short
circuit to the solar generator for some seconds and it might be
damaged by connected batteries or load capacities in the
inverter!
Connect the measuring device properly to the solar generator
using the cables delivered with the measuring device. The plus
pole is marked RED, the minus pole is marked BLACK! When
connected wrong (exchanged polarity) the solar generator is in
short circuit through the in PVPM1000C integrated safety diodes
(no measurement of current possible). This condition must not
be kept for more than one minute, else the measuring amplifier
may overheat.
it is important, that all 4 plugs of the 4-wire-measurement are
connected properly by the delivered 4-wire-cable or (if you dont
want a 4-wire-measurement) the two red plugs should be
connected and the two black plugs as well. Use short circuit
plugs or laboratory cables for this purpose. Without this
connection a measurement of voltage is not possible!
Caution: keep a sufficient distance to power leading parts of the
cables between solar generator and measuring device. These
cables may lead high tension what may affect your health even
without direct contact!

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Connecting the Combination Sensor

4.6 Connecting the Combination Sensor

For a measurement you must connect a Pt1000 temperature
sensor and a Phox sensor (delivered as a combined device) to
the relevant plugs of the PVPM1000C. For the measurement of
serial resistance Rs or I-V-curve only these sensors are
obsolete. The plugs are build in a way you cannot connect a
sensor to a wrong plug.
The combined Phox/Pt1000 sensor should be mounted near the
modules to be measured. It must have exactly the same
orientation (elevation and azimuth) re. the sun as the modules
have. Most time the easiest way is direct assembly to the module
frame. Please take care that the sensor will produce no shadow
on to the module! The sensor needs several minutes to adapt to
the environment conditions: the reference cell firstly must reach
the temperature of the module, before you can make a
measurement with the PVPM1000C (see chap.4.9).

4.7 Turning On
Turn the power of PVPM1000C on by pressing the switch
Power on the front panel. The control lamp On will show you
the presence of power from the accumulator or grid connection.
The PVPM1000C will no pass some self tests and will need
about 15 seconds of operation for readiness. The device is ready
when the main menu appears on the LCD-screen.
Lamps on front panel:
Charge

Lights up, when accumulator is charged

State of charge

Red: Accumulator discharged (charge at

once!)

(3 color LED)

Green: Accumulator ready

Operation not possible!

Operation possible
Operation possible

Yellow: Accumulator charged completely *)

Grid connection

Lights up, when grid connection (230V/50Hz) is connected and switched

on

On

Lights up, when PVPM1000C is operating (the readiness will be

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Turning On

displayed on the LCD display)

*) If the lamp alternated between green and yellow steadily the accumulator
load is kept. This part of the loading should not be retained for more than 3
hours, because else the accumulator could be damaged.

The PVPM1000C reports several system conditions, functions

and errors by speaker signals. A list of signals you will find in the
appendix.
When the device signaled readiness, you can make a
measurement.

4.8 Keys
4.8.1 Test
The Test key is used to visualize the load state of the
accumulator with the front panel LEDs when the device is not
operating. You should do this regular to avoid damage of the
accumulator through inevitable self discharge. Charge the
PVPM1000C completely at least once a month even if you dont
use the device.
4.8.2 ESC
The ESC key will bring you up to the next higher menu level.
4.8.3 HOME
The HOME key will bring you up to the main menu.
4.8.4 ENTER
With the ENTER key you select an option or confirm.
4.8.5 Arrow keys
You can move the mark in menus and other lists using the arrow
keys.
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Measurement

4.9 Measurement
Please pay attention to the safety hints in chapters 3+4 and
factors affecting measurement accuracy in chapter 5.
The measurement can be started from the PVPM1000C or from
a connected PC (see chapter 8). The measurement should not
be started before the solar generator and the necessary sensors
are connected properly. The measurement will take about 2
seconds, than the calculated results will be displayed
immediately on the PVPM display (or on the PC).

4.10 Menus
On the display of PVPM1000C you will find vertical and
horizontal menus. The handling is same for both: choose an
option with the arrow keys, select it with Enter key. The Home
key will bring you back to the main menu, ESC key back to the
next higher menu level.

4.10.1 Menu New measurement

Brings you to the sub menu:

Eeff=532W/m2, Tmod=34,4C
New measurement
Stored measurement
Transfer
Service

4.10.1.1 Menu Single

measurement
A single measurement is made and
the results like Ppk and Rs will be
Sensor=monocristallin
calculated and displayed at once.
The data is stored permanently and automatically. The i-v-curve
can be displayed on the screen immediately.
4.10.1.2 Menu Rs measurement
This method is adapted from a norm: two measurements at
different irradiances, but same temperature and spectrum have
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Menus

to be made. When the second measurement is finished the Rs

will be calculated and displayed from the results of these two
measurements. This method is much mure complicate than our
standard method method to gain the Rs from only one i-v-curve.
Meas. of 10.10.01 at 14:02
Ppk = 75.6 W
Measured at:
Eeff = 210 W/m2
Tmod = 17 C
Finish

Addit.

Graph

Uoc = 21.3 V
Isc = 2.3 A
Finish

U MPP= 17.4 V 3
I MPP = 2.1 A
2
1
FF = 0.64

Result

Graph

Finish

10

20

Result

30

40

50

Addit.

It is only implemented for completeness.

4.10.1.3 Obj. Index
The object index was implemented to allow marginal structuring
of the measured data. Due to the lack of a alphanumerical
keyboard no additional data can be added to the measurements.
The object index no allows to assign a number to the
measurements. So you can organize datasets that belong
together (for example from one module) with the same object
index. In the menu Service you can reset the object index to 1.
4.10.2 Menu Stored meas.
This function enables you to recall a former automatically stored
measurement from internal storage (as long as you not already
deleted the dataset). The datasets are displayed in a list
identified by the date and time of the
---Select with cursor keys: --000 001 17.07.00 11:54:38
measurement. Locate a dataset with
001 001 17.07.00 11:58:23
the arrow keys, select the dataset with
002 001 18.07.00 10:15:17
Enter. if more than one page of
datasets can be displayed you can
Sensor=monocristallin
select other pages with the keys Left
and Right.
Now a menu with Display, Delete and Abort appears.
Display will again show the results of this measurement on the
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Menus

display, Delete will delete the dataset

from internal storage (caution: you can
not undo this!), Abort brings you back
to the main menu.

---Select with cursor keys: --000 001 17.07.00 11:54:38

001 001 17.07.00 11:58:23
002 001 18.07.00 10:15:17

Display

Delete

Abort

4.10.3 Menu Transfer

This function allows the control of the
PVPM1000C through a connected
external PC (see also chapter 8).
Finish this function by pressing the
ESC key.

4.10.4 Menu Service

Brings you to the following sub menu:
4.10.4.1 Menu Select sensor
You can select one of the sensors that are defined in the sensor
database (see chapter 8.4.4).
4.10.4.2 Menu Show version
Shows the firmware version number.
4.10.4.3 Menu Reset obj. index
Here you can reset the object index to a value of 1.
4.10.4.4 Menu Set Date/Time
Here you can set date and time of the internal clock of the
PVPM1000C, but it will be much more simple to do this with the
program PVPM.disp (see chapter 8).
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Messages

4.11 Messages
Message:

Description:

'Serial error'

An error in the serial connection between

PVPM and PC ocurred

'No measured data'

Measured data is not yet available

'Configuration file not found!'

Internal error, consult manufacturer. PVPM

cannot work without its configuration file

'Irradiance varies (ref-cell)!',

'Irradiance too low!',
'Irradiance varies (module)!'

'not available'

The irradiance is not constant enough for the

peak power measurement (for example due to
moving clouds)
This reusult cannot be calculated

'No room for new data!',

'Delete files from PVPM'

There is no space left on the internal

permanent storage, you have to delete stored
data from the permanent storage of the PVPM
(see 4.10.1.3)

'Measurement runs',
'Please wait...'

Measurement is in process

'Error writing file '

An error ocurred storing the measured data

'Data transfer:',
'Quit transfer with ESC'

Data connection to PC invoked

'Measurement not yet possible' The security delay between two measurements
is not yet elapsed
'Calculation of Rs not possible' Data is not sufficient for calculation of Rs. Redo
the measurement
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Messages

'Values not evaluablely'

Data is not sufficient for calculation. Redo the

measurement

Voltage too high!

Immediately switch off the generator with the

external security switch! The device could be
damaged by the high voltage!

Service required!

The device is damaged internally and requires

test and repair through authorised personell.

Wrong polarity!

The measuring cables are mounted in the

wrong way! Switch off the generator with the
external security switch immediately! The
device will short circuit the generator if the
polarity is wrong and can take harm. If you
disconnect the cables under voltage a light arc
can cause serious damage to health and
material

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External Security Switch 1000V / 20A

5 External Security Switch 1000V / 20A

Use this switch to disconnect the peak power measuring instrument and
I-V-curve tracer PVPM from the PV power before connecting or
disconnecting the measuring cables to/from the PVPM. This avoids
damages of your own health or the PVPM.

Usage:
Turn the knob at the switch in a neutral position 0 (both 0
positions are equal).

Put the measuring cable delivered with the PVPM as far as it

will go to the sockets at the switch housing, red connectors to
red sockets and black connectors to black sockets. You can
reverse the two red connectors without harm, the two black
ones also. Now connect the cables mounted at the switch to
the PVPM (red to red, black to black).
Before you can make a measurement you have to turn the knob at the
switch to one of the 1 positions.

Security hints:
CAUTION:
Do never forget to switch to 0 before handling the
connectors at the PVPM!
If you detect a defect at the switch, the housing or the
connection cables, the switch may under no condition
be used any longer!
Only specially instructed professionals must do repairs!
Keep the switch and cables away from liquids, dust and
dirt. Clean the surface with a wet cloth only.

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Parameters affecting the Accuracy of the Measurement

6 Parameters affecting the Accuracy of the

Measurement
Be sure, that there is no shadow (even not the smallest shadow!)
affecting the module to be measured. Even the shadow of grass
may cause an error! This is also true for the reference sensor.
The higher the irradiance to the module, the more exact will be
the result. The irradiance measured by the combined sensor
should be higher than 500 W/m2 if possible.
The combined Phox/Pt1000 sensor measures the cell
temperature at the back of the reference cell. The PVPM expects
this temperature to be nearly the same as that of the measured
module. This will be true with sufficient precision if the reference
cell and the PV module were exposed to the sunlight for same
period of time (at least 5 minutes).
The alignment of the module re. the sun is not relevant. Very
important is a sufficient irradiance to the module and precise
alignment of the reference cell towards the module. Often the
easiest way is to clip the combined sensor directly to the side or
top of the measured module. However the sensor may also be
installed in some distance to the module if you can grant the
correct alignment.
Pay attention to the cooling openings of the reference sensor,
these must not be closed or covered. This would cause an error
in the temperature measurement of the reference cell and affect
the quality peak power measurement.
Caution: even a few degrees deviation in the temperature
of the reference cell towards the module temperature can
cause a significant error in peak power measurement.
Before a you make a measurement be sure, that the
reference sensor and the module were exposed to the
same ambient conditions for a sufficient period of time!

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Parameters affecting the Accuracy of the Measurement

You can enhance the precision of the PVPM results by

measuring the same object several times (e.g. 10) and after that
do a statistical evaluation on these results.
Given below are once more the parameters, that are decisive for
the accuracy of the measurements:
Accuracy of the peak power calculations from I-V
characteristics on photovoltaic generators with the
measuring device PVPM
Under following constraints the peak power designations of the
PVPM have an accuracy of +/- 5% relating to the actual peak
power value of the device under test:

The device under test consists of mono- and

polycristalline silicon cells

The tested device is not (not even slightly) shadowed

The irradiation reference sensor is not (not even slightly)

shadowed

The irradiation reference sensor must have largely the

same spectral sensitivity as the tested device

The measurement has to be carried out under natural

sunlight

The sun has to stand according to IEC60904 within +/10 at right angle to the active surface of the device
under test

The irradiation amounts according to IEC609004 at least

to a total of 800W/m. On the basis of comparative
measurements we find 600W/m sufficing.

The measurement of the irradiation has to take place

instantaneously before or after the I-V characteristic, the
time-lag between measurement of characteristic and
irradiation has to be less than 10ms.

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Parameters affecting the Accuracy of the Measurement

The measured value of the irradiation reference sensor

has to be adjusted with the measured temperature of the
cell

The measurement of the cell temperature has to take

place instantaneously before/after the measurement of
the characteristic within 1second and an accurateness of
1K

The active surface of the device under test must lie inplane with the irradiation reference sensor (within +/-5%)

Before the measurement of the I-V characteristic the

irradiation has to be constant enough for at least
10seconds (+/-10W/m), that way misinterpretations of
the temperature of tested device and reference sensor
can be avoided

The irradiation may not fluctuate around more than

10W/m (PVPM will call attention in this case)

Temperature of tested device and reference sensor has

got to be balanced (no alteration of temperature my be
indicated)

Current and voltage of the device under test are

measured with different measuring lines (four-wire
measurement)

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Installation of the Transfer Software PVPM.disp

7 Installation of the Transfer Software PVPM.disp

PVPM.disp is delivered on a diskette or a CD-ROM. The medium
contains a setup program for easy installation of the software on
to your PC. The setup program will copy all necessary files to
your hard disk and initializes the program. The installation can be
performed by every person with basic experience of PC and MS
Windows.
For the installation the following steps are necessary:
1. Insert the program disk/CD containing the setup program
(Disk 1) in to the corresponding drive.
2. Under Start select menu option Execute
3. In the now appearing edit line under Open you enter
x:setup (were x is the drive letter of the installation media.
4. Press ENTER or the OK button. Now the setup program will
be started and executed. Follow the messages on the screen.
5. Setup now copies all necessary files to your hard disk and will
create a new program group for PVPM.disp..
6. After completing the installation please start PVPM.disp. The
program should now work as described in the following text.
The operation of the program will be professed detailed in
chapter 8 .
For the operation of the program these files are necessary:
PVPMdisp.EXE

The main program

PVPMdisp.INI

Config file. You must not change this

file manually!

PVPMdisp.HLP

Help file (not yet available)

The program will create files with the extension .SUI, which
contains measured data from a I-V-measurement. When these
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Installation of the Transfer Software PVPM.disp

files were created automatically during a data transfer from

PVPM1000C to PC the file name will contain the date and time of
the measurement. A typical file name could be 24-05-01
14_17_04.SUI, this file contains data from a measurement made Mai
24., 2001 at 2:17:04pm.

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Operation of the Transfer Software PVPM.disp

8 Operation of the Transfer Software PVPM.disp

For the installation of the software please refer to chapter7. After
starting the software the following window appears:

The displayed document is empty, all values are zero. Now you
can make a measurement or get measurement data from the
PVPM1000C. The new or received data will be stored to this
document and you are able to continue evaluating these data or
save it to a hard disk file. For the evaluation you can refer to the
screen pages Graphic (line diagram of measured data) and
Results display of results and list view of measured data). The
function Export lets you export the data to different file formats
for further evaluation in other software.
Buttons are grayed out, when they are not active. They change
to normal state, when this function is meaningful.

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Main Menu

8.1 Main Menu

8.2 File
8.2.1 Open
I-V-curves
saved to disk
before can be
reloaded using
the Open
button. The
loaded data
will overwrite
the data in
memory. If you
will use the
existing data
later you have to save it to disk file before loading other data.
The files have the default extension .SUI.
8.2.2 Save as...
Here you can
save the
current data to
a disk file.
Entries made in
field Remarks
will be save
also. The
program
supports long
file names. The
default file
extension is ".SUI".
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File

8.2.3 Browse
The browse window shows the thumbnail images of the
measured curves in the selected directory. This gives you a
quick overview over the existing measurements and you can
detect a special curve.
If you go with the
mouse cursor above
one graphic a small
hint window will display
the significant values.
Doubleclicking the
graph will open the file
for evaluation.
8.2.4 Export
The current data can be exported to
disk files with different file formats
which can be read by other
programs (e.g. spread sheet
programs). You can use the format
.DBF (dBase III+) and three
different ASCII formats. For the
selection of the right format please
consult the manual of the
destination program.
Please select the desired export file
format from the combo box. Now
enter a valid file name for the export file or select a existing one
with the button Search, then press OK.
The export file will be written now and then you can open it with
an other program.

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File

8.2.5 Print
This button is context sensitive,
that means that a graph will be
printed when the graphic is
currently displayed and a data list
will be printed, when the results
are displayed on screen.
Please pay attention to the fact,
that in some cases the page
orientation of the printer has to be
changed before printing out. The
print uses the whole available
printing area.
The buttons on top of the preview
window are from left to right:
Zoom factor
Save preview
Load preview
Print preview
Find text in preview
Help
Finish preview.

8.2.6 Printer Settings

Calls the windows standard
dialogue Printer Settings.
Select the desired printer
settings here.

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File

8.2.7 Quit Program

Here you finish the program PVPM.disp. The current data are not
save automatically but you will get an warning, that you data
should be saved before closing the program
Dont forget:
Finish Transfer on the PVPM1000C when you close
PVPM.disp
Finish PVPM.disp always with the function Quit program, the
button End or the key combination <ALT>-<F4> and go back to
System. It is also important, that you down your system properly
afterwards, because else a data loss might occur due to a write
back cache etc.

8.3 Edit
This function is only active when the cursor is placed in a text
edit field.
8.3.1 Cut
Cuts the marked text and moves it to the clipboard.
8.3.2 Copy
Copies the marked text and moves it to the clipboard.
8.3.3 Insert
Inserts the contents of the clipboard at the cursor position.

8.4 Options
Before you use the following function Measurement please
power on the PVPM1000C and select the menu option

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Options

Transfer. The solar generator to be measured and the sensors

should be mounted already.
8.4.1 Start Measurement on PVPM / Button Measure
After starting the function the status line will display the message
Measurement processing Please wait.
The measurement will take up to 2 seconds. Directly after the
measurement the measured values will be transferred (process
will be displayed in the status line) and the main window will
display the values and results. Now you can display the data in a
graph (chap. 8.5) or a list (chap. 8.6), export (chap. 8.2.3) or
save to file (chap. 8.2.2).
Important: When the measurement is initialized from the PC the
data will not automatically be stored in the PCPM1000C!
If this message
(see right)
appears, the
cable to
PVPM1000C is
not mounted properly or the function Transfer on the
PVPM1000C is not activated.
8.4.2 Manage Files on the PVPM1000C
Here the measurement data stored
on PVPM1000C will be displayed in
a list (the PVPM1000C must be
connected and online for this
function). Now you can select data
sets from the list (even more than
one) and either transfer it to the PC
for further processing (Button Get
data) or just delete it from the
PVPM1000C (Button Delete data).
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Options

Caution: Carrying out this function can not be cancelled!!

When you select data transfer the data sets will be transferred
one after the other and the files are stored to disk automatically
using a file name that contains the date and time of the
measurement.
8.4.3 Synchronize PVPM to PC date/time
With this function the internal real time clock of the PVPM1000C
is set to the PCs date/time.
8.4.4 Modify PVPM sensor database
You can connect different irradiance sensors to the PVPM. Every
sensor has its own calibration value, so PVPM needs to know
this value for correct operation. To
make this simple during
measurement you can define a table
with up to ten different sensors, its
names and calibration values, which
will be stored in the PVPMs permant
memory. So later on you just have to
select the appropriate sensor. The
name you give the sensor is more or
less free. It will be displayed later on
on PVPMs display and informs you
about the actually selected sensor.
You can select the sensor at the
PVPM via the menu Service and Select sensor.
If you want to use this function the PVPM must be connected
and ready for data transfer! When you start this function the
database is loaded from PVPM and will be stored back to PVPM
when you close this form.
To enter a new value just select a free line and enter the values
in the edit fields below the table.
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Options

After finishing all entries press OK. Now you will be asked
whether the data should be transferred to PVPM. Normally you
should select Yes here.
8.4.5 Calculate internal series resistor
Basing on the values of short circuit current, open circuit voltage,
and the i and v value of the MPP the PVPM can calculate the
effective solar cell curve and with this the expected internal
series resistor Rs. This theoretical value can be compared to the
actually measured value and give a hint, whether there are
problems for example in the cabling.
8.4.6 Continous measurement
This function allows the automatically time measurement driven
from PC.

Set the desired time interval and the time unit (seconds, minutes,
hours) for the execution of the measurement and the number of
repetitions (0, if measurements shell be repeated infinite).
After pushing the button Start measurement the measurement
runs automatically and can be cancelled by the Stop button.
The measured data will automatically stored to files in the
predefined directory (see below). The file names contain the date
and time of the measurement.

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Options

The automatic measurement will stop, when the given number of

repetitions are finished or when the PVPM does not answer.
8.4.7 Settings
All changes made here
will be saved automatically
and are valid until the next
change.

8.4.7.1 Select Serial Port

You can select the serial
port (COMn:) used for
PVPM communications from the combo box.
8.4.7.2 Working directory
The working directory is used in file open and file save dialogs
and for the automatically saving of files. Select here the directory
which contains your measured data or which the measured data
should be saved to. The entry field has a button at its right side.
Press this button to display a directory selection dialog.
8.4.7.3 Dialog language
PVPM.disp supports the dialog languages English and German.
The language can be changed during program execution. Just
select your desired language from the combobox dialog
language. After you close the dialog box the labels of
PVPM.disp will be displayed in the selected language.
PVPM.disp will remember language setting at the next start.
Please note, that the standard and system dialogs will always be
displayed in the language of the current windows version!

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Options

8.4.7.4 Temperature correction

Sometimes it may be useful to add a correction factor to the
measured temperature values. In this case you can enter the
factor here. The factor will be added to the measured
temperatures: enter a negative value, if you want to decrease the
temperature. If the factor is not zero the displayed temperatures
will be displayed like xx.xC korr. to remember you, that this
value is not the measured one.
8.4.8 Firmware-Update
This function is for service purposes only and not documented
here.

8.5 Graphics
After loading the data
of a measurement you
can display the graph
by selecting the tab
Graphics (if not
already displayed).
In the graphical display
you can draw up a
rectangle with the
mouse cursor (from
top left to bottom right
with pressed left mouse button). This
marked region then will be displayed
zoomed. To come back to normal view
just click onto the drawing region. If you
press the Shift-Key and the right
mouse button in the viewing area and
keep the buttons pressed, you can
move the graphic area in every
direction (pan).
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Graphics

Clicking the viewing area with the right mouse button lets a
popup menu appear. The same functions are available if you use
the button bar on top of the graphics region. The following
options are available:
8.5.1.1 MPP display on/off (button Show MPP)
You can select whether the MPP shell be displayed in the
diagram or not. Note: The displayed MPP is not exactly one of
the measured data points but will be interpolated.
8.5.1.2 Theo. curve on/off (button Eff. curve)
You can select whether a curve approximation will be performed
on the data and whether this curve will be displayed additionally
to the measured curve. Depending on the measured data the
calculations may be not possible.
8.5.1.3 Show STC curve on/off (button STC curve)
If a curve can be calculated up to STC conditions it also can be
displayed. Here you can switch the display of this curve on or off.
The axis scale will be corrected automatically (if necessary).
8.5.1.4 Show power on/off (button
You can select whether the power graph is displayed or not.
8.5.1.5 Zoom on/off (button Zoom max)
The scale for the y-axis is changed to expand the curve to the
maximum display.
8.5.1.6 Legend on/off (button Legend)
A legend of the displayed graphs can be displayed optionally.
Here you can switch the display of the legend on or off.

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Graphics

8.5.1.7 Copy to clipboard (button Clipb)

Copies the actual graphic to the clipboard, you can enter this
copy for example into a word document.

8.6 Results / Lists

By clicking the tab Results the page with results will be

displayed. It is not possible yet to edit this data here. However
the list with results and measured data can be printed (see 8.2.5)
With the button Clipb you can copy important data in a tabular
form to the clibboard and then for example into MS Excel.
So you can easily setup a
table of different
measurements and compare
them using a software other
then PVPM.disp without
exporting the files.

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Help (not yet implemented)

8.7 Help (not yet implemented)

8.7.1 Contents
Displays the contents of the online help.
8.7.2 Search
Here you can search within the online help.
8.7.3 Use help
Basic hints for the windows help system.
8.7.4 Info
Displays an information window with the version number of the
program.

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Hardware Information

9 Hardware Information
(Changes reserved)

Build in a stable metal case with carrying handle and tough front panel.

9.1 Measuring Unit:

Sampling rate max. 100kHz, resolution 12Bit,
Accuracy of the a/d converter better 1%
Peak power measurement: 5%
Reproducement: 2%
Duration of single measurement: about 2 seconds
Phox sensor with integrated Pt1000 sensor measures irradiance
and cell temperature. Other commercially available sensors as e.g.
ISET-Sensor can be connected using a reliable cable connection.
Pinout of sensor plugs:
Irradiance:
3 pin female chassis socket Typ Lumberg KFV30 (plug: SV30)
Pin 1 = U+
Pin 2 = not used
Pin 3 = UTemperatur2:
4 pin female chassis socket Lumberg KFV40 (plug: SV40)
Pin 1 = +Current source (~1 mA)
Pin 2 = +Pt1000
Pin 3 = -Pt1000
Pin 4 = -Current source (~1 mA)
Measuring ranges of the PVPM:
Standard
Voltage
Meas.Range
[V]

Current
[A]

PVPM2540C

25/50/100/250

5/10/20/40

PVPM6020C

25/100/300/600

2/5/10/20

PVPM1000C

25/100/500/1000

2/5/10/20

PVPM1000C40

25/100/500/1000

2/5/10/40

Peak power:

up to 40kW
PV-Engineering GmbH

Tempe- Irradiance
rature
-100C
+120C

0 - 1300
W/m2

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Measuring Unit:

Ranges for current and voltage can be combined in any order

An optimal range is selected by the device automatically.

9.2 Calculation Unit:

Processor 386sx-compatibel, 33MHz, memory 2MByte
Flash disk 0.9MB (can store more than 100 results)
Watchdog, real time clock
No mechanically moved parts like hard disk, fan etc.

9.3 Display:
LCD display with CCFL lighting, resolution 256 x 128 pixels,
monochrome, high contrast through white on black display

9.4 Operation:
Menu driven with few keys mounted to the front panel
Operation and evaluation alternatively by Windows software,
connected via RS232 (19200Bd)

9.5 Power Supply:

Lead-acid-accumulator 12V/2.2Ah or 12V/7.2Ah,
Internal power supply 230V/50Hz, power consumption 40W,
fuse 5x20, 250V 0.25A Slow at der backside of housing
Integrated battery charger with overload protection for accu
Display of battery state with LEDs at the front panel

9.6 Dimensions
Width: 48cm, height: 16cm, depth: 34cm (2540C, 6020C) / 39cm

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Operation Conditions:

9.7 Operation Conditions:

Operation:
Storage:

Temperature:

Humidity

0C to 40C
-10C to 85C

10% to 90% (not condensing)

5% to 95%

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List of symbols

10 List of symbols
AM
cT
E
E0
Eeff
EN
FF
I
I0
Im
Iph
Ipmax
Ipmax0
Isc
Isc0
m
M
MPP
NOCT
P
Pmax
Ppk
R
Rp
Rpv
Rs
STC
t
Tamb
TambN
Tj0
Tmod
U
Um
Uoc
Uoc0
Upmax

Air-Mass, relative way length for the sunlight through the atmosphere
of the earth
Temperature coefficient of the maximum power
Irradiance
1000 W/m2 (Irradiance at STC)
Irradiation, measured with a cristalline pv cell
800 W/m2 (Irradiance for NOCT)
Fill factor
Current
Sperrstrom
Short form for Ipmax
Photo current
Current at Pmax
Current at Pmax (at STC)
Short circuit current
Short circuit current (at STC)
Normalized slope of the solar characteristic curve
Slope of the characteristic curve at I=0
Maximum Power Point, other description for Pmax
Nominal Operating Cell Temperature,
cell operating temperature at TambN and EN.
Power
Actual maximum power of a solar cell
Peak-Power, maximum power of the solar cell at STC
Resistance
Parallel resistance
Photovoltaic resistance (calculation factor only, no real resistor)
Serial resistance
Standard Test Conditions for the determination of Ppk
Time
ambient temperature
20C (ambient temperature for NOCT)
25C (cell temperature at STC)
actual Module temperature (at the backside of the module)
Voltage
Short form for Upmax
Open circuit voltage
Open circuit voltage (at STC)
Maximum power voltage

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Reasons for decreased Power and Yield of PV Generators

11 Reasons for decreased Power and Yield of PV

Generators
Error
System configuration chosen
inadequately
Erroneous match of strings
and inverter
Cast shadow

To be detected by:
Measurement of mismatch
losses
Fed power too low for location
and in relation to nominal
generator power
I-V-curve shows "bulge", peak
power too low, optical check

Possible reason / workaround

Design fault / redesign
Design fault / redesign,
replacement of inverters

Barrier near module (e.g. tree,

chimney, birds excrements) /
remove barrier
Diffuse shading (may be
I-V-curve is "impressed", peak Barrier in some distance to
hardly visible for bare eye!)
power too low
module (high portion of diffuse
light) / remove barrier
Corrosion at plugs and cables Serial internal resistance Rs Material, planning or mounting
too high
fault / Clean, replacement
Delamination of cell
see shading diffuse
Material / production fault /
embedding
Replacement
Bubbling in resin
see shading diffuse
Material defect / replacement by
supplier
Transparent covering material Optical check, peak power too Material defect / replacement by
(glass, plastics, resin)
low (s. a. shading diffuse)
supplier
becomes blind
Discolouring of the
Optical check, peak power too Material defect / replacement by
transparent cover material
low (s. a. shading diffuse)
supplier
(plastics, resin)
Intrusion of water into the
Optical check
Material or production fault /
laminate, leads to other
replacement by supplier
problems (corrosion,
discolouring)
Faults in the crystalline
see shading diffuse
Production fault / reduction of
structure of single cells (hotprice, replacement by supplier
spot effect)
Pollution of the module by
Optical check, see shading
High dust impact. Check modules
dust
diffuse
periodically / cleaning
Moss / algae on module,
see cast shadow
Normal for several regions /
birds excrements
cleaning
Broken cover glass, leads to Optical check
Hailstorm, mounting or
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Reasons for decreased Power and Yield of PV Generators
other problems (corrosion,
discolouring)
Break of single cells in
module
Improper electrical
connections in module

transportation fault / replacement

by supplier
Peak power too low, possibly material defective / replacement
deformation of I-V-curve
by supplier
Peak power too low, internal Fault in soldering, material
series resistance Rs higher
defective, corrosion /
than calculated
replacement by supplier
Bypass diode defective (short Peak power of strings reduced Overload, material defective /
circuit)
by module power
repair
Bypass diode mounted the
Peak power of strings reduced Mounting fault / repair
wrong way
by module power
No bypass diode mounted or Shading of one module reduces Planning / mounting fault / repair
diode defective (high
power of the string dramatically
resistance)
Dimension of cabling too
Internal series resistance Rs Design fault / replacement of
small
too high
cables
Cable defective (e.g. break, Internal series resistance Rs Mounting fault / repair
corrosion)
too high
Insufficient mounting of
Internal series resistance Rs Mounting fault / repair
connectors
too high
Corrosion in screwed or
Internal series resistance Rs Mounting fault / cleaning, repair
plugged connectors
too high
Insufficient preselection of
Peak power of plant too low
Planning or mounting fault (match
modules regarding peak
losses) / New preselection of the
power
modules after peak power
measurement
Insufficient preselection of
Peak power of module too low Production fault / reduction of
single cells regarding power
price, replacement by supplier
during module production
Short circuit between cells in Peak power of plant too low,
Production fault / replacement by
the module
open circuit voltage Uoc too low, supplier
shape of curve
Fabrication tolerances in cell Peak power too low, shape of Production fault / reduction of
production
curve
price, replacement by supplier
Please notice: some faults may appear only under special operating states, e.g. high module temperatures.
This compilation does not claim to be complete or free of failures.

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Sample Curves

12 Sample Curves

Ideale Kennlinie

Gemessene Kennlinie

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Sample Curves

Ideale Kennlinie
Gemessene Kennlinie

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Sample Curves

Ideale Kennlinie
Gemessene Kennlinie

Ideale Kennlinie
Gemessene Kennlinie

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Sample Curves

Gemessene Kennlinie

Ideale Kennlinie

Gemessene Kennlinie

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Glossary

13 Glossary
13.1 Azimuth () and elevation ()
For the effective use of solar radiation the modules and
collectors are arranged in a way that makes a preferably large
solar crop possible. In this connection the wave angle of the sun,
but also the 'azimuth' and the elevation of the modules and
collectors play a certain part. The azimuth angle specifys with
how many degrees the surface of the modules or the collectors
diverge from the exact adjustment to the south. The elevation
pertains the deviation from the horizontal. Studies substantiate
that solar plants with an azimuth of 0 and an elevation of about
30 are aligned in the best possible way. Nevertheless small
deviations are not implicitly problematic: with the orientation to
south-east or south-west still around 95% of the possible crop
can be realised. Larger plants are, to enhance the profit,
reorientated towards the sun by electric motors. (see as well
tracking).
For measurements with the PVPM the accurate arrangement of
the insolation sensor with the modules is very important. The
sensor has to 'see the same sky' as the modules. At the same
time it is to be taken in account that by reflections from the
environment (by house walls or other light surfaces) the
incidence of light on the modules and the sensor can be
intensely influenced.

13.2 Slope of the roof

When planning a solar plant the question for the slope of the roof
(e.g. on the internet) leads to wrong conclusions, as it is not the
slope of the roof, but the slope of the collectors. Through an
appropriate elevation and attachment the collectors can be
brought into a good position even if the slope or the adjustment
of the roof are disadvantageous.
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Slope of the roof

For the optimum use of solar radiation the sun rays should fall on
the collectors in a right angle. The optimum elevation and angle
of setting-up correspond to the geographical latitude of a
location. (Freiburg is located on the 48. degree of latitude;
Lbeck on the 54. degree of latitude) Since the sun stands
higher in the summer than in the winter it depends on in which
time of the year the solar equipment is predominantly being
used. Photovoltaic plants for example carry the highest yield on
long summer days, while thermal solar plants are taken to
support heating installations in the winter. As a rule of thumb for
the angle of setting up a latitude of -10 in the summer and a
latitude of +10 in the winter is considered to be effective.
Not to be confused with the slope is the orientation (azimuth) to
the south. In practice smaller deviations from the optimum slope
or orientation decrease the productivity insignificantly. A
temporary clouding of the collectors impairs the effectiveness far
more.

13.3 DC
Short for direct current, as it is being produced by solar cells and
modules and stored by the battery. If many solar cells are
connected in series to a module, the voltages mount up.

13.4 Degradation characteristic

The degree of efficiency of amorphous solar cells declines at the
beginning of the phase of irradiation rapidly and first stabilises
after 3 weeks to 5 month. Next to this irreversible degradation,
another reversible degradation is taking place. That means
amorphous solar cells have a better degree of efficiency in
spring-/summer-time compared to autumn/winter.

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Direct radiation/ diffuse radiation

13.5 Direct radiation/ diffuse radiation

Direct radiation (casting shadows) meets a surface without
scattering through components of the earth' atmosphere.
Through scattering (fog, haze, clouds) diffuse/ indirect radiation
develops.

13.6 Generator
Lat.:producer. Generators dissipate other forms of energy into
current. In solar techniques only the entirety of the
interconnected photovoltaic modules is characterised as
generator or as solar power plant.

13.7 Global/total radiation

Denotes the irradiation on the earth by the sun that hits a
horizontal surface. It is composed of the direct irradiation and the
reflected irradiation (e.g.: by snowfields).

13.8 Short-circuit current and solar cells

Current that circulates, if the positive and the negative pole of the
cell get connected, that means when there is no resistor or load
between the two poles. It is not dangerous for the cell, but a
disconnection might cause a light arc which is dangerous for
health and environment!

13.9 Mismatching
The connection of weak and better modules in a string, whereby
the weaker module in a row affects the current and that way
impairs the total power.

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MPP

13.10 MPP
Denotes the point of maximum power. A solar cell has in
connection of every magnitude of irradiation to a certain
magnitude of temperature and light spectrum a point of
maximum power on its I-V-characteristic. The product of usable
current and corresponding current of a solar cell does not always
have the same value.

13.11 Tracking
The module-surfaces of 'trackers' follow the state of the sun
during the course of the day. The tracking can be carried out by
one or two axis, whereby the production of two-axle tracking is
more effective. Compared to a permanent south orientated plant
the annual yield increases with approximately 30%. Tower
mounted, tracked and elevated solar plants allows the choice of
an optimum position. That way, irrespective of structural
circumstances, a panning range free from shadows is made
possible.

13.12 Peak Power

To guarantee the comparability of power output of PV-moules it
was generally accepted that the nominal power of a module is
measured with the boundary conditions temperature of cell 25,
irradiation 1000W/m and a spectrum of light according AM=1,5,
and named Peak Power (some producers also characterise it
as nominal value). The boundary conditions are called
Standard Test Conditions (STC).
Unfortunately the natural appearance of the STC is very seldom,
that is why the relevant measurements so far were only realised
in laboratories, where the conditions had to be produced under
high effort.
With the new method of the Peak Power -and characteristic linemeasuring device, a spate of PVPM, it is now possible to realise
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Peak Power

these measurements under actual environmental conditions - the

measuring device converts them into STC. Thus after just one
characteristic line measurement the Peak Power Ppk, the
internal series resistance Rs and the parallel resistance Rp are
available as output. This output is, in comparison with the
specified value, an indication for different errors in the PVGenerator, that way they simplify efficiency control and error
search.

13.13 Performance Ratio

The Performance Ratio means in, photovoltaic, the ratio of
available profit and specified value of a plant. The Performance
Ratio is the quotient of the yield of alternating current and
nominal yield of generator DC. It indicates what proportion of the
current produced by the generator is in real terms available. PVplants of high capacity reach a Performance Ratio of more than
70%. The Performance Ratio is often denominated as quality
factor (Q). Solar modules on the basis of crystalline cells reach a
quality factor of 0,85 to 0,95, network coupled plants average out
at 70% to 75%.

13.14 Phox-sensor
The principle of the Phox (PHOtovoltaic LuX) -sensor is that the
current from the photovoltaic cell, which is almost linear to the
irradiation of the cell, is conducted through a so called shunt, a
particular resistor. The voltage which falls on part of the resistor
is on its turn linearly dependant from the irradiation and can be
easily measured with the measuring device. Disadvantage: every
sensor has got to be calibrated separately: the calibration value
is the voltage delivered by the sensor, when it is exposed to the
Standard-Test-Conditions (STC).

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Internal series resistance

13.15 Internal series resistance

This resistance results physically from the material being used
for the production of the module as well as from its cable
connection-it has usually a constant value. It amounts in
crystalline modules around 1ohm, in thin-film module more than
2 ohm.
The measurement of the internal series resistance is latterly
possible with the measuring device of the PVPM series. For that
purpose just one I-V-curve of the module has to be measured.
With this curve the device calculates the Rs, as well as the Ppk
and the parallel resistance Rp automatically.
The theoretically value to be due of the internal series resistance
Rs can be calculated. The calculation can be carried out with the
software PVPM:disp, if the STC-characteristics Uoc, Isc, UMpp
and IMpp of the module are known.
The calculates Rs can be compared to the measured value
which the PVPM-measuring device hands out after the
characteristic curve measurement. If the measured value is too
high the wiring has to be checked for burst, corrosion,
connection errors or wrong dimensions.

13.16 Solar Constant

Denotes the solar radiation that hits vertically on a surface
outside the atmosphere. s=1,37 kW/m. Outer space the solar
radiation is almost constant; on earth it fluctuates in the course of
daytime or time of the year and varies depending on latitude and
weather. The maximum value on earth lies between 0,8 and 1,0
kW/m. In annual means the irradiation in Germany amounts
according to region between 950 and 1100 kWh/m.

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Solar irradiation / insolation

13.17 Solar irradiation / insolation

The solar irradiation is put together by the radiation which is
directly from the sun and divers indirect proportions. Those are
the by the environment reflected radiation, e.g. snowfields reflect
especially intensive, the radiation of the blue sky and other
diffuse radiation. For the exact calculation of the energy that hits
a surface the angle between sunrays and surface is decisive. It
changes according to time if year and time of the day.
Informations about the exact calculation offers the belowmentioned internet address. The radiation is delimited by several
factors; even if the sky is beaming blue only around 90% of the
total solar energy arrives on earth.

13.18 Current-Voltage-Characteristic
The Current-VoltageCharacteristic of a PVGenerator shows different
qualities and problems of
the generator and is the
basis of a few substantial
specific values.
For example partially or
hard shading will modify
the characteristic as well as high internal series resistance and
defective or missing bypass diodes.
Besides short circuit current Isc and open circuit voltage Voc,
voltage and current at the maximum power point (MPP) Ipmax
and Vpmax as a result you get the fill factor FF:
FF = Isc*Voc/(Ipmax*Vpmax)
The i-v-curve is the basis for the calculation of the effective solar
curve, which then allows the determination of the peak power
Ppk and the internal series resistance Rs.

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Appendix A

14 Appendix A
14.1 Display lamps in the panel:
Mark

Function

Charge

Lights up, when accu is charged

State of Charge

Lights up red, when accu is discharged (charge necessary at once)

Lights up green, when accu is ready
Lights up yellow, when accu charge is finished

Grid connection

Lights up, when grid is connected and switched on

On

Lights up, when device is powered on (readiness is displayed on LCD

screen)

14.2 Speaker signals:

PVPM1000C reports messages and operation state by speaker
signals: in the following deep sounds are represented by da,
higher sounds by dee.
Sound

Meaning
Reaction
key click is simulated while you press a key
-During operation: signals start or end of an function -Error (common)
Pay attention to further statements
about the kind of error
de
If this signal comes with the first appearance of the Device is ready
main menu, the device is ready
da or da-da
Directly after switching power on: processor is o.k. -da or da-da followed by Directly after switching power on: the lithium battery Service required
da-da
of the processor is empty.
dee-dee-da-da
LCD display does not react
Switch the device off and after a
little while on. If the error appears
again, service is necessary
dee dee
After file transfer to PVPM (service only)
File transfer to PVPM o.k.
da-dee-da
After file transfer to PVPM (service only)
File transfer to PVPM not o.k., rest
of destination file will be deleted
dee-dee-dee-dee
During measurement. irradiation is too low or varies Measurement is incorrect an will be
dropped
dee-dee-dee-da-da-da- A/D converter could not be initialized
Service required
dee-dee-dee
Click
dee
da

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EC Declarations of Conformity

15 EC Declarations of Conformity
EG-Konformittserklrung im Sinne der EG-Richtlinien
EC Declaration of Conformity as defined by the EC
Directives

EMV/EMC 89/336/EWG, gendert durch/changed by 93/31/EWG

Niederspannung/Low Voltage 73/23/EWG

Der Hersteller / The manufacturer

PV Engineering GmbH
Reinickendorfer Str. 2
58642 Iserlohn, Deutschland/Germany
erklrt hiermit, dass folgende Produkte / certifies that the products
Produkt:
I-U-Kennlinienmessgert
Product:
I-V-Curve tracer
Typ:
PVPM2540C
Type:
Seriennummer: PVPM2540C00403
Serial No.:
Baujahr:
2003
Year of manufact.:
den Bestimmungen der (den) oben bezeichneten Richtlinien entspricht.
are in conformity with the directive(s) mentioned above.
Folgende harmonisierte Normen wurden angewandt:
The following standards are in use:
DIN EN 55022
DIN EN 61000-6-1: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-2: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-3: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-4: 2002-08
Iserlohn, 01.05.2003
(Ort, Datum)

Dipl.-Ing. Klaus M. Schulte

Geschftsfhrer/Managing Director
PV-Engineering GmbH

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EC Declarations of Conformity

EG-Konformittserklrung im Sinne der EG-Richtlinien

EC Declaration of Conformity as defined by the EC
Directives

EMV/EMC 89/336/EWG, gendert durch/changed by 93/31/EWG

Niederspannung/Low Voltage 73/23/EWG

Der Hersteller / The manufacturer

PV Engineering GmbH
Reinickendorfer Str. 2
58642 Iserlohn, Deutschland/Germany
erklrt hiermit, dass folgende Produkte / certifies that the products
Produkt:
I-U-Kennlinienmessgert
Product:
I-V-Curve tracer
Typ:
PVPM6020C
Type:
Seriennummer: PVPM6020C00103
Serial No.:
Baujahr:
2003
Year of manufact.:
den Bestimmungen der (den) oben bezeichneten Richtlinien entspricht.
are in conformity with the directive(s) mentioned above.
Folgende harmonisierte Normen wurden angewandt:
The following standards are in use:
DIN EN 55022
DIN EN 61000-6-1: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-2: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-3: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-4: 2002-08
Iserlohn, 01.03.2003
(Ort, Datum)

Dipl.-Ing. Klaus M. Schulte

Geschftsfhrer/Managing Director

PV-Engineering GmbH

PVPM Users Manual

Page 61
EC Declarations of Conformity

EG-Konformittserklrung im Sinne der EG-Richtlinien

EC Declaration of Conformity as defined by the EC
Directives

EMV/EMC 89/336/EWG, gendert durch/changed by 93/31/EWG

Niederspannung/Low Voltage 73/23/EWG

Der Hersteller / The manufacturer

PV Engineering GmbH
Reinickendorfer Str. 2
58642 Iserlohn, Deutschland/Germany
erklrt hiermit, dass folgende Produkte / certifies that the products
Produkt:
I-U-Kennlinienmessgert
Product:
I-V-Curve tracer
Typ:
PVPM1000C
Type:
Seriennummer: PVPM1000C00103
Serial No.:
Baujahr:
2003
Year of manufact.:
den Bestimmungen der (den) oben bezeichneten Richtlinien entspricht.
are in conformity with the directive(s) mentioned above.
Folgende harmonisierte Normen wurden angewandt:
The following standards are in use:
DIN EN 55022
DIN EN 61000-6-1: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-2: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-3: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-4: 2002-08

Iserlohn, 01.10.2003
(Ort, Datum)

Dipl.-Ing. Klaus M. Schulte

Geschftsfhrer/Managing Director
PV-Engineering GmbH

PVPM Users Manual

Page 62
EC Declarations of Conformity

EG-Konformittserklrung im Sinne der EG-Richtlinien

EC Declaration of Conformity as defined by the EC
Directives

EMV/EMC 89/336/EWG, gendert durch/changed by 93/31/EWG

Niederspannung/Low Voltage 73/23/EWG

Der Hersteller / The manufacturer

PV Engineering GmbH
Reinickendorfer Str. 2
58642 Iserlohn, Deutschland/Germany
erklrt hiermit, dass folgende Produkte / certifies that the products
Produkt:
I-U-Kennlinienmessgert
Product:
I-V-Curve tracer
Typ:
PVPM1000C40
Type:
Seriennummer: PVPM1040C03004
Serial No.:
Baujahr:
2004
Year of manufact.:
den Bestimmungen der (den) oben bezeichneten Richtlinien entspricht.
are in conformity with the directive(s) mentioned above.
Folgende harmonisierte Normen wurden angewandt:
The following standards are in use:
DIN EN 55022
DIN EN 61000-6-1: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-2: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-3: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-4: 2002-08
Iserlohn, 15.10.2004
(Ort, Datum)

Dipl.-Ing. Klaus M. Schulte

Geschftsfhrer/Managing Director

PV-Engineering GmbH