Is the PV Analyzer testing done at the string level or the individual module level?
The PV Analyzer can measure a single module, a string of modules, or one or two strings in parallel. It can be connected at the combiner box to quickly measure each string of a larger system.
Do the PV Analyzer wireless sensors have batteries?
Both the temperature and irradiance sensors are attached to wireless transmitters. Each wireless transmitter uses one standard AAA battery. Unscrew the back of the transmitter to remove or replace the battery.
Does the wire length feature take wire temperature into account?
In the PV Analyzer software, the user can enter wire gauge and length so that the effects of wire can be included in the model calculations. This feature does not take wire temperature into account because it is difficult to determine the temperature inside the conduit. This feature assumes room temperature. To simulate the […]
Can the PV Analyzer measure positively grounded systems?
Yes. The PV Analyzer can measure both positively and negatively grounded systems. Remember to observe the polarity of the leads.
Can the PV Analyzer measure 1000V systems?
No. The PVA-600 PV Analyzer is restricted to a maximum voltage of 600V and cannot measure 1000V systems. Please contact Solmetric about your requirements for enhancements to the PVA.
Is the PV Analyzer measurement sweep time adjusted automatically?
Yes, the measurement sweep time is adjusted automatically to ensure accurate measurements without excessive power dissipation.
What type of irradiance sensor is supplied with the PV Analyzer Wireless Sensor Kit? What type of PV panel is it most appropriate for use with?
The PV Analyzer Wireless Sensor Kit includes a silicon irradiance sensor which uses a monocrystalline silicon solar cell. It is intended to be used for testing systems that use silicon monocrystalline and polycrystalline PV modules.
How do I know when to change the batteries in the PV Analyzer Wireless sensor transmitters?
The temperature and irradiance sensors have wireless transmitters powered by a standard AAA battery. If the battery inside one of the wireless sensor transmitters is low, the ?LOW BATT? LED on front of the transmitter will be illuminated. To replace a transmitter?s AAA battery, unscrew the two screws on the back of the […]
How do I know when to charge the PV Analyzer I-V Measurement Unit?
The PVA Measurement Unit contains an internal battery that requires charging via an AC outlet. The PV Analyzer software interface will warn the user when approximately one hour of battery life remains. The software user interface displays the Disabled alert (below the Measure Now button) when the battery is nearing the end of its charge. […]
Where and how should I attach the PV Analyzer wireless irradiance sensor?
Position the irradiance sensor in the same plane (facing the same direction) as the module(s) under test. Do not place the irradiance sensor on top of one of the modules being tested as this will significantly affect your measurement results.