Description
I-V Curves and PV Performance Verification
PVA-1000S PV Analyzer Kit is a 1000 volt I-V curve tracer with built-in PV performance modeling and advanced wireless irradiance, temperature and tilt sensing. It provides unprecedented measurement throughput and accuracy and delivers deep insight into the performance of your arrays.
For 1500V curve tracing see the PVA-1500.
For each string, the PV Analyzer measures the I-V (current vs. voltage) and P-V (power vs. voltage) curves with a single button click. The measured results are compared to the expected performance, taking into account the irradiance and module cell temperature at the time of the I-V measurement. The I-V Unit communicates wirelessly to your Windows tablet or laptop (not included), enhancing safety and allowing freedom of movement during testing. Automated data analysis and reporting save you time.
The PV Analyzer is designed to work as hard as you do. High measurement throughput means it can measure 1 MW in less than 2 hours–even in hot environments where other curve tracers shut down. The rugged enclosure is moisture and dust resistant. The incident angle corrected SolSensor is able to make accurate irradiance readings in lower light conditions extending your working window.
I-V curve testing is the preferred method for commissioning, O&M, and troubleshooting of PV arrays because it provides the most complete performance measurement possible. Populations of curves can be analyzed quickly for outliers and data can be archived as a baseline for future reference if performance questions arise.
Measure strings up to 20 Amps or 30 Amps (with option). This can be useful for measuring many strings in parallel, for example when harnessing before the combiner box is employed. Please note, however, the maximum current for strings of high efficiency modules with ≥ 19% efficiency is 10 Amps. For more information on high efficiency modules, see the Solmetric app note I-V Curve Tracing of High Efficiency PV Modules.
Download PV Analyzer data sheet
Included with the PVA-1000S
SolSensor Wireless PV Reference Sensor (included): Irradiance, module temperature, and tilt readings are captured at the instant the I-V curve is measured. Improves effectiveness of expected performance models. The SolSensor has a range of more than 300 ft and includes a module rail clamp and precision mounting system for POA alignment.
PVA Test Leads (included): Alligator-clips enable connecting directly to combiner box bus-bars. more…
I-V Data Analysis Tool (included): Excel macro for analysis of populations of curves and data plus report generation. more…
Options
30A Measurement Capability Option:
Extends PVA-1000S measurement current limit from the standard 20A maximum up to 30A. This can be useful for measuring many strings in parallel, for example when harnessing before the combiner box is employed. Please note, however, that parallel strings of high efficiency modules can not be measured in parallel even if the total current is less than 20A or 30A.
Transit Case Option:
| This rugged waterproof, dust-proof, and crush-proof Pelican® case has durable custom foam cutouts for the I-V unit, SolSensor, and accessories as well as a pocket for a laptop/tablet (up to 14″ x 10″). Includes wheels and retractable handle for easy transportation. Also holds the field recharging kit, including the folding solar panel. more… |  |
Field Charging Kit Option:
| This field charging kit enables you to charge your I-V unit or SolSensor from solar or from an external battery pack for those extra-long days in the field. Kit includes a 28W folding solar panel, external battery pack capable of re-charging an IV unit or SolSensor twice, and charging cable. more… |  |
FEATURES
- Features
- Measures and displays I-V and P-V curves and key parameter values.
- Advanced built-in PV models provide immediate PV performance checking.
- Database of more than 70,000 modules, with automatic updates.
- Automates data management, analysis, and reporting.
- Measures string-after-string, combiner-after-combiner, without overheating or slowing down your measurements.
- Clear, colorful, touch-capable software runs on your tablet or notebook PC, providing rich insight into PV performance.
- Accurately measures high-efficiency modules and strings.
- Wireless interfaces for faster setup, safer work environment, and freedom of movement during PV troubleshooting.
- Specifications
- PV voltage: 12-1000 V DC
- PV current: 0-20A DC, 0-30A DC model also available (note, high efficiency strings ≥ 19% limited to 10A DC)
- Measurement sweep time: <250 ms
- Voltage accuracy (0 to 55 C): +/-0.5% +/-0.25V
- Current accuracy (0 to 55 C): +/-0.5% +/-40ma
- I-V trace points: 100, 500
- Wireless sensor range: >300 ft
- Operating ambient temperature: -10 to 65 C (14 to 145 deg F)
- 1 year warranty
- Made in USA
ORDERING INFORMATION
The PVA-1000 comes standard with:
- I-V Measurement Unit with soft carrying case
- PVA Software for Windows™
- SolSensor Wireless PV Reference Sensor
- PV Analyzer Test Leads (MC-4 to alligator clips, 5 ft)
- I-V Data Analysis Tool for Microsoft Excel™
- Wireless USB Interface (for Windows laptop or tablet)
- Connector saver jumper set (two 12-inch m-f MC-4 jumpers)
- Battery charger (AC adapter)
Purchasing Terms:
Shipping: For new products, shipping costs are not included in the published prices, but are quoted separately.
Returns: Orders may be returned within 30 days of purchase with a 10% restocking fee. Returns are not accepted for orders more than 30 days old.
Computer Requirements
The PV Analyzer requires a Windows laptop or tablet that is not included with a PVA purchase. Minimum requirements and recommendations are given below.
- OS: Windows 7, 8, 10 and 11.
- Processor speed: 2 GHz or more
- RAM: 2 GB or more
- Hard drive: 100 MB free space or more
- Screen resolution: at least 1024 x 600
- Bright outdoor readable display
- USB port
- An extended life battery, swappable battery, or external backup battery is convenient for full days of testing (a 4MW system can take 8 hours to measure every string.
- For extreme, hot, or dusty environments we strongly recommend the Panasonic Toughbook or similar.
Systems that do not meet these requirements may not operate correctly.