SOLARTRAINER

junior

Experiments with Solar Cells

Instructions
Duplication only for IKS Photovoltaik Supported by the Authors Supported with funds of the
teaching purposes Kunsch & Schröder GbR Bundesministerium für
in connection with
the Solartrainer
An der Kurhessenhalle 16 b
D-34134 Kassel / Germany
IKS
Photovoltaik
Dipl.-Ing. Holger Kunsch
Michael Schröder
Bildung, Wissenschaft,
Forschung und Technologie
Junior Tel. 0561 / 9538050 under the project number
Lehrsysteme
Fax 0561 / 9538051 Laborausstattungen 032984C
Version 02/2006 www.iks-photovoltaik.de Messtechnik
Sonderentwicklungen
info@iks-photovoltaik.de Demonstrationsmodelle
 Contents

Contents and Layout of the case .............................................................................................................................................................................................1

Presentation of the individual Components ....................................................................................................................................................................2

Assembly of the System ................................................................................................................................................................................................................8

Intended Use / Notes on Safety .................................................................................................................................................................................................9

Experiments with Solar Cells

Experiment 1 Measuring the Irradiation of different Light Sources ................................................................................................................................................10

Experiment 2 The Solar Cell as a Converter of Energy..................................................................................................................................................................11

Experiment 3 The Solar Cell as a Converter of Energy / as Diode ................................................................................................................................................12

Experiment 4 The No-Load Voltage of a Solar Cell / Shading ......................................................................................................................................................13

Experiment 5 The Short-Circuit Current of a Solar Cell / Shading .................................................................................................................................................14

Experiment 6 The No-Load Voltage and the Short-Circuit Current with different Irradiations ........................................................................................................15

Experiment 7 The Short-Circuit Current of a Solar Cell with different Angles of Irradiation ...........................................................................................................16

Experiment 8 Series Connection of Solar Cells / Shading .............................................................................................................................................................17

Experiment 9 Parallel Connection of Solar Cells / Shading ...........................................................................................................................................................18

Experiment 10 Voltage - Current Characteristic Curve of a Solar Cell .............................................................................................................................................19

Experiment 11 Determination of the Efficiency Factor / MPP ..........................................................................................................................................................20

Experiment 12 Simulation of a Daily Course ....................................................................................................................................................................................21

Experiment 13 Charging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator with a Solar Cell ......................................................................................................................22

Experiment 14 Discharging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator ............................................................................................................................................23

Experiment 15 Setting up an Isolated System .................................................................................................................................................................................24

Experiment 16 PC-supported Recording of Measured Values: Voltage - Current Characteristic Curve of a Solar Cell ..................................................................25

Experiment 17 PC - supported Recording of Measured Values: Conversion of Direct Current to Alternating Current ....................................................................26

Experiment 18 PC-supported Recording of Measured Values: Charging / Discharging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator .................................................27

Circuit Symbols and Terms ........................................................................................................................................................................................................28

Contents
Contents and Layout of the Case

1 Baseplate
3
2 2 Suspension for the baseplate
4
3 Instructions

4 Solutions
Software CD (option)
5 Interface cable (option)

5
 6 Solar cell unit

7 3 Shading plates

8 Power cord

9 2 Multimeters
12 11 13 16 14 15
10 Sensor

11 Irradiation unit

Speicher/storage Data logger Last / Load 1 Last / Load 2 12 12 Measuring cables, 6x red, 6x blue

10
Sensor

13 Storage

14 Load 1

15 Load 2
6
16 Data logger

9 7 9 17 Inverter

18 Rubber foam pad (not pictured)

17

8
Inverter

Contents and Layout of the Case 1

Presentation of the individual Components

F Baseplate 1
Accommodates the solar cell unit 6 , the irradiation unit 11 and the experimenting
modules and measuring devices.

A Scale “Orientation”
B Centre of rotation for the irradiation unit 11
C Location holes for solar cell unit 6
A D Magnets for fixation of the solar cell unit 6
E Space for experimenting modules and measuring devices
F Slit to fix the baseplate in the case
C D E
B

Experimenting instructions 3
Description of the experiments

Teachers’ Booklet / Software CD (option) 4

Background information and solutions

Interface cable (option) 5

For the connection of the data logger16 to a PC.
 Solar cell unit 6
A
The solar cell unit consists of a tower case with integrated
G transformer and the solar cell case, adjustable in tilt, with the
connecting sockets.

A Connecting sockets of the solar cells.

Four polycristalline solar cells 5 x 10 cm,
No-load voltage approx. 0.5 V,
2
Short-circuit current approx. 1.5 A ( 1,000 W/m )
H B Knurled screws for the fixation of the solar unit
housing
C Microfuse 5 x 20 mm, 1 A max.
D Power connection 230 V ~ / 50 Hz
F E Low voltage connection12 V for the irradiation unit 11
F Power switch
(position "Off" turn left to end position) and
intensity controller (Scale 0 - 10)
B
G Scale in degrees for the solar unit tilt
H Counter marking of the disc in degrees
I Pins for location on the baseplate 1

D
I

Presentation of the individual Components 2

Presentation of the individual Components

Shading plates 7
For shading a quarter, a half or the whole of the surface of individual solar cells. The shading plates are
fitted to the solar unit housing. The connecting sockets are located in the recess clearance.

Power cord 8
Connection to the housing power socket of the solar cell unit. 6

Multimeter 9

A A Display ( 3 ½ digits, 7 segments, digit height 13 mm)

B Function and measuring range selector switch
When in position "OFF" , the device is switched off. Switch to this position when not using the
device (to save on batteries).
Pull out measuring cable before switching over the measuring ranges!
B Select desired measuring range:
ACV Alternating voltage Connecting sockets D and E
500 V max.
Accuracy 1.2% +10 digit
C DCA Direct current Connecting sockets D and E
2,000 mA max.
Fuse 2 A / 250 V
D

E

10 A Direct current
Diode test
W Resistance measurement
DCV Direct current measurement
C 2 mm Connecting socket +
D 2 mm Connecting socket +
E 2 mm Connecting socket -
Battery change
Fuse change
Presentation of the individual Components
Accuracy 1.0% +2 digit
in the range of 200 uA to 20 mA,
Accuracy 1.2% +2 digit
in the range of 200 mA
Accuracy 1.5% +2 digit
in the range of 2,000 mA
Connecting sockets C and E
10 A max.
Connection unfused
Accuracy 1.5 % +2 digit
-
Connecting sockets D and E
to be measured dead only
Accuracy 0.7% +2 digit
in the range of 200 to 200 kW ,
Accuracy 1.0% 2 digit
in the range of 2000 kW
Connecting sockets D and E
500 V max.
Accuracy 0.7% +2 digit
In all ranges
10 A direct current
V/W / mA
for all measuring ranges
Disconnect measuring cables, switch off
device (pos. “OFF”), detach back cover
Use leakproof batteries, type 9V only.
Observe polarity!!
Detach back cover
use type 2 A / 250 V only
3
Presentation of the individual Components

Sensor 10

For measuring the irradation in connection with a multimeter

in the measuring range of 2,000 mV.
2 2
The unit of irradiation is W/m , where 1 W/m = 1mV ±5% is displayed.

Since the energy supply of the device is ensured through a solar cell, the measuring range begins at
approx. 15 W/m2. Measuring from higher to lower irradiation, lower values can also be measured
(Charging of the internal storage capacitator).

For the measurement, the device must be oriented towards the light source, in such a way that the rays
Sensor
hit the sensor field vertically. The solar cell and the sensor field may not be switched off during
measurement.

Irradiation unit 11
A B C
For irradiation of the solar cell unit 6 with artificial light.

A Halogen lamp 12 V / 50 W.
Use only Osram, Type 46870 VWL as replacement part.
D B Counter marking for the scale A "Orientation” of the baseplate 1

C Connector plug for halogen lamp A, connection via socket E of the

solar cell unit 6

D Bearing pin, plug into hole B of the baseplate 1

 Measuring cable 12

Highly flexible connecting lines with 2 mm plugs and and tapping sockets. Contact surface gold-
coated, rated current 10 A max.
Maximum permissible service voltage 25 V alternating current, 60 V direct current !!!

Storage 13
Akkumulator / Accumulator

Nickel-metalhydrid accumulator:

Voltage 1.2 V direct current

Capacity 65 mAh
U = 1,2 V
C = 65 mAh
Charging current 6.5 mA / 10 h max.
Charging end voltage approx. 1.4 V
Gold Cap
Upper connection: direct connection
Lower Connection: via blocking diode, voltage drop approx. 0.7 V

GoldCap:

Umax = 2,3 V Capacitator with storage capacity

C = 10 F
Capacity approx. 10 F
Speicher / storage Charging current 2.3 V direct current max.

Presentation of the individual Components 4

Presentation of the individual Components

Load 1 14
Elektromotor
Electric motor
2,0 V / 30 mA Electric motor:

Service voltage 3.5 V direct current max.

No-load current approx. 9 mA with 1.5 V

Bulb:
Glühlampe
Bulb
1,5 V / 60 mA Service voltage 1.5 V direct current max.
Current intake approx. 60 mA with 1.5 V

Last / Load 1

Load 2 15
Solarmodul / Solar module
A
For loading the solar cells with the load resistance and measuring voltage and current.

Parameters load resistance:

Resitance 100 W
B Load capacity 2 W max.
10-way

A Connection solar cell(s)

Widerstand / Resistor C
B Connection multimeter for voltage measurement
D
C Connection multimeter for current measurement
Last / Load 2
D Knob, right turn increases resistance
 Data logger 16
Eingang / Input 1 Ausgang PC/
2,5 V = Output PC
Umax = 2,5 V DC
For the recording (logging) of voltage and current values via PC.
The analogous values are converted into digital signals and transferred to the PC via tha RS 232
A interface.
A Input 1, voltage up to 2.5 V
C
B Input 2, current up to 200 mA
B C Socket for the connection of the interface cable 5 to the PC (COM)
Serial
interface
D Power switch, switch off device when not in use (to save on batteries)
Eingang / Input 2
Imax = 200 150mA
m A DC=
E Battery compartment, battery 9 V
aus ein
off on D Replace in case of malfunction of the device

Data logger Software factor for current channel : 200

Software factor for voltage channel : 2.5

Inverter 17
Eingang/Input 1 Ausgang/Output 1
Umax = 2 V DC Signal Sinus
For the conversion of direct voltage to alternating voltage and for the presentation of the inverter
function. Only to be used in connection with a data logger. 16
A C A Input 1, Voltage up to 2 V
B Input 2, Voltage up to 2 V
C Output 1, voltage signal sinusoidal
B D D Output 1, voltage signal rectangular
E Power switch, switch off device when not in use (to save on batteries)
Eingang/Input 2 Ausgang/Output 2
Umax = 2 V DC Signal Rechteck
Signal rectangle F Battery compartment, battery 9 V
aus ein
off on E Replace in case of malfunction of the device

Inverter

Presentation of the individual Components 5

 Presentation of the individual Components

Software for Data logger

Introduction:
The software IKS Solartrainer enables you to record and process measured data with a data logger and a PC in connection with the experimenting system easily and
conveniently.

Installation
Insert CD into the drive, open WINDOWS Explorer and initiate the file “Ikssolar.exe”. (Minimum requirements: PC with operating system Windows 98)
Connection see “Measuring” / “Select interface”

Menus

File
contains contains menu items for the saving and storing of files, printing of diagrams as well as for the mounting of printers and exiting the program. After clicking with the
mouse, the following menu items appear:

Open Opens a diagram windows you have saved before.

Close Closes the current diagram window.
Save as Saves a diagram window under a file name to be registered by you.
Save in CSV format Saves the measured data in CSV format.(Comma Separated Values)
Print preview Print preview for the current diagram.
Print Prints the current diagram window
Print setup Printers and selection of format.
MRU list List of the files last used.
Exit Exit IKS Solartrainer.

Measuring
for starting and stopping measurements and for the configuration of the serial interface for the measuring unit.

x/y - Characteristic curve Record x/y - characteristic curve.

After selecting the submenu “x/y Characteristic curve” a dialog appears for the setup of the parameters.

1. Section: Name

Here you can enter a name (or a title) for the diagram.
This name will be taken over automatically when saving.
 2. Section: Vertical axis ( Current channel )

The following values can be adjusted here:

Min. Value: Controls at what value scaling will start.

Max. Value: Controls at what value scaling will end.
Graduation: Controls how precisely the scaling of the axis will be subdivided.
Unit: To be set depending on your measurement, e.g.: V
Factor : Depends on the measuring range ( hardware ) of your data logger and the unit entered.
See “data logger”.
Offset : This moves the display of the zero point by the value entered as compared to the physical zero point .

3. Section: Horizontal axis ( Voltage channel )

The following values can be adjusted here:

Min. Value: Controls at what value scaling will start.

Max. Value: Controls at what value scaling will end.
Graduation: Controls how precisely the scaling of the axis will be subdivided.
Unit: To be set depending on your measurement, e.g.: mA
Factor : Depends on the measuring range ( hardware ) of your data logger and the unit entered.
See “data logger”.
Offset : This moves the display of the zero point as compared to the physical zero point by the
value entered.

By pressing the button “OK”, the recording of a x/y characteristic curve is started. The screen will show an empty diagram window. This
diagram window contains a grey field with two digital displays for the current and voltage. After setting default (or own) values, these values
can be taken over to the diagram.
A maximum of 100 measured value pairs is possible. You can, however, end the measurement by pressing the button “Abort” and
save afterwards.

y/t - Characteristic curve Record y/t - characteristic curve.

After selecting the submenu “y/t Characteristic curve”, a dailog appears for setting the parameters.

1. Section: Name

Here you can enter a name (or title) for the diagram.

Presentation of the individual Components 6

Presentation of the individual Components

2. Section: Vertical axis 1 (Voltage channel)

The following values can be adjusted here:

Min. Value: Controls at what value scaling will start.

Max. Value: Controls at what value scaling will end.
Graduation: Controls how precisely the scaling of the axis will be subdivided.
Unit: To be set depending on your measurement, e.g.: V
Active: Controls if this measuring channel will be displayed in the diagram.
Factor : Depends on the measuring range ( hardware ) of your data logger and the unit entered.
See “data logger”.
Offset : This moves the display of the zero point as compared to the physical zero point by the
value entered

3. Abschnitt: Vertical axis 2 (Current channel)

The following values can be adjusted here:

Min. Value: Controls at what value scaling will start.

Max. Value: Controls at what value scaling will end.
Graduation: Controls how precisely the scaling of the axis will be subdivided.
Unit: To be set depending on your measurement, e.g.: MA
Active: Controls if this measuring channel will be displayed in the diagram
Factor : Depends on the measuring range ( hardware ) of your data logger and the unit entered.
See “data logger”.
Offset : This moves the display of the zero point as compared to the physical zero point by the
value entered

4. Section: Horizontal axis (Time axis)

The following values can be adjusted here :

Sampling interval (sec): Controls how often a measurement shall be taken during the overall measuring time set by you.
If you want to observe the recording of the measured values directly on the screen, the sampling
interval must be greater than 0.1 sec on account of system related reasons.
Otherwise the message “Measuring” will appear on the screen until the overall measuring time has passed.
Only after the overall measuring time has passed will the diagram be displayed on the screen.
Overall measuring time (sec): Controls the duration of the measurement.
When this time has passed, the measurement will be stopped automatically.
If in doubt, always enter a little longer time. You can adjust the scaling to the diagram anytime via the menu
“Window” / “Change x axis”.
 Pressing the button OK will start the recording of a y/t charactertistic curve. If you want to end the measurement before the time set in
The 4th section “Horizontal axis (Time axis) has passed, you can do this via the menu “Measuring” / “Abort measurement”.

Digital measuring device Displays the measured values (voltage / current) digitally on the screen.
Abort measurement Abort the currently running y/t measurement.
Select interface For the selection of the RS 232 interface for the serial communication of your PC with the data logger. You can chose between
COM 1......COM 4, depending on what interface you use at your PC for the data logger.

Window
contains menu items for the automatic grouping of windows.
Cascade Shows the windows in cascading view.
Horizontally Shows the windows horizontally.
Vertically Shows the windows vertically.
Show as icons Shows the windows next to each other as icons.
Close all Closes all open windows.
Change x axis Changes the scaling of the x axis.

Help
contains menu items for opening the Help and Info dialogs.

Content Opens a Help window and displays the contents of the Help file.
How to use Help Displays information on how to use the Help function.
About IKS-Solartrainer Shows the Copyright and About dialog boxes.

Button commands
Open Opens a diagram window that has been saved by you before.
Save as Saves a diagram window under a name to be registered by you.
x/y - Characteristic curve Record x/y - Characteristic curve.
y/t - Characteristic curve Record y/t - Characteristic curve.
Digital voltmeter Displays the measured values (votage / current) digitally on the screen.
Print Prints the current diagramm window.
Print preview Displays a print preview for the current diagram.
Contents Opens a Help window and displays the contents of the Help file.

You can find further information under the program menu “Help”.

Presentation of the individual Components 7

Assembly of the System

5 4

6
2 5

3
7
 1 Lift up the baseplate.
11
2 Take out baseplate and place it in the centre of a table of
approx. 80 cm width.
11 3 Take out solar cell unit, put shading plates back into their
compartment.
4 Place solar cell unit on the baseplate as pictured, in such
5 a way that the two pins on the underside fit in the holes
of the baseplate.
6 Take out measuring cables and put them aside, take out
15 irradiation unit.
10 7 Place irradiation unit underneath the baseplate, in such a
way that the screw head is inserted in the hole.
15 8 Fit connecting cable of the irradiation unit through the
recess on the side of the baseplate.
9 Put plug C of the irradiation unit into connecting socket E
of the solar cell unit.
10 Arrange the modules mentioned in the instructions in the
space of the baseplate.
11 Connect assembly with measuring cables according to
the instructions.
15
8

12 Plug in power cord at the module unit.

12 13 Connect power plug with power outlet with fault-current
circuit breaker.
14 Switch on lamp by turning the knob right, brightness
9
control 0-10.

15 Adjust tilt of the solar cell unit and position of the

irradiation unit according to the instructions.

14

FI
13

Power line 230 V ~ / 50 Hz

with fault-current circuit breaker

Assembly of the System 8

Intended use

Notes on Safety

1 The assemblies may only be operated when connected to the voltage intended for them.

1 If the power cord is damaged, it may only be replaced by an expert.

1 When pulling out the power cord, always pull the plug, never the cord. Never put heavy objects on the cord and do not bend it in a narrow circle or around sharp edges.

1 The permitted ambient temperature (room temperature) during operation may not fall below or exceed 10 °C and 40 ° C, respectively.

1 The system is intended for use in dry and clean rooms.

1 In case of condensed water, a time for acclimatization of up to 5 hours must be adhered to.

1 Operation of the system in the open or in moist rooms is not permitted.

1 Protect the system from humidity, splash water and heat.

1 The system may not be used in connection with easily inflammable and combustible liquids, gases or dusts.

1 The modules may only be operated under the supervision and guidance of a competent teacher. In schools and other educational facilities, the operation of the system is to be supervised carefully by trained
and qualified personnel.

1 In case of industrial associations, the accident prevention regulations of the industrial trade cooperative association concerning electric plants and appliances are to be adhered to.

1 If a module needs repair, use only original replacement parts! The use of deviating replacement parts can lead to considerable material and personal damage!

1 A repair may only be carried out by a qualified expert!

1 Always disconnect the system from supply voltage after use.

1 If liquid leaks into a module, this could lead to damages. If any liquid has been spilled over the assembly, the device must be disconnected from the power supply and tested by a qualified expert.

1 When working with products in connection with electric voltage, adhere to the valid VDE (German Electrotechnicians’ Association) regulations, especially VDE 0100, VDE 0550 / 0551, VDE 0700, VDE
0711 and VDE 0860.

1 Before opening the module, always pull out the power plug and make sure the device is dead.

1 Connection to the power supply network should only be made via a fault-current circuit breaker and a circuit with emergency switch.

1 Cabling may only be made using the enclosed measuring cables.

1 During operation of the modules, strictly adhere to the characteristic values for electric units mentioned in the respective description.

1 Experimental assemblies always need to be checked with regard to their correct cabling / connection by qualified teaching or supervising personnel before commissioning.

1 If the modules are used for experimental assemblies that are not described in these instructions, always check if the respective modules are fit for such use. If in doubt, always check with the manufacturer.

1 Cleaning of the components may not be done using solvents. Clean with soft, dry or only slightly moist cloth.

1 The factory-mounted signs and labels may not be modified, removed or made indecipherable.
Non-liability
The consulting engineers Kunsch (IKS) cannot control the adherance to these instructions nor the conditions and methods in terms of connection, operation, use and maintenance of the system.
Please note that operating and connection errors are beyond our control.
A faulty connection or operation can lead to material damages and in consequence, to health hazards.
Therefore, we do not assume responsibility and liability for losses, damages or costs resulting from faulty connection, improper operation or improper use and maintenance or being in any way connected with it.
We reserve the right to modify the product, its technical data or operating / experimenting instructions without prior notification.

Intended Use
The Intended Use of the individual modules is described in the previous pages and the instructions. Any use deviating from this is not permitted and done at the user’s own risk.

Warranty
1. The delivered goods are to be inspected for transport damages by the customer immediately after arrival at their destination. Complaints concerning incomplete or wrong deliveries are to be notified to us no later
than 8 working days after arrival of the goods at their destination with sufficient justification. When this period has passed, the delivery shall be considered completed as per agreement.
2. We shall be liable for any hidden defects that could not be detected in immediate inspection, for a period of six months after the day of delivery, repair or replacement of the defective material at our discretion. If
such a repair or replacement is impossible, failed or unacceptable, the customer can only demand a reduction of the purchase price or a cancellation of the defective part of the purchase agreement. In any case,
the defective part is to be sent to our address for the purpose of repair or delivery of a replacement part and also in case of a cancellation of the agreement by the customer. For essential foreign products, the
liability of the supplier shall be limited to the transfer of the liabilities he has towards the supplier of the foreign products.
3. The customer’s right to assert claims from defects shall expire in any case after six months from the time of due notification, but no sooner than with the expiry of the warranty.
4. Natural wear, improper use, negligence, damaging influence of unauthorized persons, use without supervision as well as modifications of the delivered goods by the customer or third parties without our written
consent shall exclude our liability for defect and warranty obligation without exception.
5. The customer has to give us sufficient time and opportunity to rectify defects. If the customer is not willing to do this, or willing only under unacceptable conditions, any warranty obligation from our side shall
expire. This also applies to notifications of defects according to point 1.
6. The warranty period for the replacement part and the repair shall be three months, but expiring no sooner than the original warranty period for the delivered object. The period for the liability of defects at the
delivered object shall be extended by the duration of the downtime caused by the repair works.
Further warranty and damage claims of the customer in any form are excluded, in particular any claim to damages that did not occur at the delivered object itself as well as claims of the customer from
unpermitted actions of the supplier, as far as such an exclusion is permitted by law.
In as far as the above-mentioned nonliability is not permitted by law, our liability shall be limited to 5 % of the purchase price of the material having caused the damage or being subject of the claim or in any way
connected therewith, notwithstanding the legal argument.

Intended Use 9
Measuring the Irradiation of different Light Sources Experiment 1
Setup

Sensor IKS
2
1 mV =^ 1 W / m

Sensor Voltmeter

Radiation source

Cicuit diagram
 Information
Irradiation Irradiation Irradiation
The different light sources can be distinguished mainly by the Light source [W/m2 ] [W/m2 ] [W/m2 ]
irradiation and the colour (wavelength) of the light. / at distance / at distance / at distance
The wavelength l of visible light is in the range of 400 nm
(blue) to 800 nm (red).
Halogen lamp
Sunlight for example is, due to its high share in blue light, (Level 10)
much whiter than light from a bulb, which appears to be
yellow due to its high share in red light. Flashlight

Room lighting

Sun

Overcast sky
Task

Define the irradiation of different light sources, e.g. as shown

in the table to the right.

The outlet sockets of the irradiation sensor are connected to

a multimeter as shown above.
The range selector switch is to be set to position “DCV 2,000
mV”.
The surface of the sensor has to face the light source in such
a way as to yield the maximum measured value.
The surface of the sensor and the solar cell must not be
obscured by shadow during the measurement.
2
The values are displayed directly in W/m .
The sensor responds to an irradiation of at least
2
15 W/m approximately.

Carry out the measurements also with varying distances from

the artificial light source.

How do the various light sources differ in terms of their

performance?
What are your observations?

Measuring the Irradiation of different Light Sources Experiment 1 10

The Solar Cell as a Converter of Energy Experiment 2
Setup

Position “Southward”
Intensity controller level 10 / IKS

variable
Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Electric motor

Circuit diagram
 Information

A solar cell convers light energy to electrical energy.

Solar cell
as
Light energy Electrical energy
energy
converter

Task

Set up the experiment according to the figure above.

The arm of the lamp is at position “Southward”, the intensity
controller is set to level 10.

What happens if the polarity of the connecting cables at the

solar cell is reversed?

Switch to different irradiance levels at the intensity controller

and observe the electric motor.

State the energy conversions taking place in the solar cell

and the electric motor.

The Solar Cell as a Converter of Energy Experiment 2 11

The Solar Cell as a Converter of Energy / as Diode Experiment 3
Setup
Electric motor Accumulator
Akkumulator / Accumulator

U = 1,2 V
C = 65 mAh

Gold Cap

Umax = 2,3 V
C = 10 F

Speicher / Storage IKS

IKS

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller “Off” / Level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Voltmeter

Circuit diagram
 Light
Information Negative electrode
Without being obscured by shadow, a solar cell will convert
the maximum amount of energy possible with this setup.
When the solar cell is obscured by shadow, it will lose its Negatively doped silicon
active role and behave like an ordinary diode with p-n
junction.

A diode is an electronical semiconductor element whose PN junction

conductivity depends on the current. This means the
electrical current can only flow through the diode in one
direction.
Anode Cathode
Positively doped silicon
Circuit symbol

Operation in forward direction: Positive pole at the anode

Operation in reverse direction: Positive pole at the cathode Positive electrode

Task

Set up the experiment according to the figure above. Results without shading plate:
The range selector switch of the multimeter must be set to Setup A
position “DCA 2000 mA” ( 1 A = 1000 mA).
The solar cell is first operated without a shading plate (A).
(Arm of the lamp at position “Southwards”, intensity controller
set to level 10)
Results without shading plate:
What observation can be made?
Setup B
Then swap the connections at the solar cell (B).

What observation can be made?

Repeat the two experiments, but with shading plate and Results with shading plate:
without radiation... Setup A

What observations can be made now?

Results with shading plate:

Setup B

The Solar Cell as a Converter of Energy / as Diode Experiment 3 12

The No-Load Voltage of a Solar Cell / Shading Experiment 4
Setup

Voltmeter
Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller “Off” Position “90°”
Level 10
Halogen lamp Solar cells
Shading
plates

Circuit diagram
 Information

Crystalline silicon solar cells consist of two layers of

semiconductors with a positive and a negative charge. Irradiated surface
If light energy hits the cell, some photons are absorbed by the of the solar cell 0 ½ ¾ 1/1
semiconductor.
As a consequence, electrons are released from the negative
layer and flow from the semiconductor to the positive layer via
an external circuit (see also figure for experiment 3, page 12). No-load
voltage [mV]
Without any load, a voltage can be measured at the outer
contacts, which is the no-load voltage UL.

No-load voltage [mV]

How far does the no-load voltage depend on the irradiated 600
solar cell surface?

Task

Set up the experiment according to the figure above. 400

The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”, the intensity
controller is set to level 10.
The range selector switch of the multimeter must be set to the
position “DCV 2.000 mV” ( 1 V = 1000 mV).

Cover the solar cell completely with the 1/1 shading plate,
measure the no-load voltage and register the value in the
table. 200
Continue with ½ cover, ¼ cover and without cover and
measure the corresponding voltage. Register the values in
the table.

Register the values in the diagram and connect the points.

What can be concluded from the measurement?

Relative surface
½ ¾ 1/1 of the solar cell
0

The No-Load Voltage of a Solar Cell / Shading Experiment 4 13

The Short-Circuit Current of a Solar Cell / Shading Experiment 5
Setup

Amperemeter

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller “Off” Position “90°”
Level 10
Halogen lamp Shading Solar cells
plates

Circuit diagram
 Information

Crystalline silicon solar cells consist of two layers of

semiconductors with a positive and a negative charge. Irradiated surface
If light energy hits the cell, some photons are absorbed by the of the solar cell 0 ½ ¾ 1/1
semiconductor.
As a consequence, electrons are released from the negative
layer and flow from the semiconductor to the positive layer via
an external circuit (see also figure for experiment 3, page 12). Short-circuit current
Without any load, a voltage can be measured at the outer [mA]
contacts, which is the no-load voltage UL. This is 0.5 V.

Short-circuit current [mA]

If the outer contacts are connected directly to a conductor, the
maximum current possible will flow, the short circuit current IK.
300
How far does the short circuit current depend on the
irradiated solar cell surface?

Task
200
Set up the experiment according to the figure above.
The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”, the intensity
controller is set to level 10.
The range selector switch of the multimeter must be set to the
position “DCV 2000 mA”.

100
Cover the solar cell completely with the 1/1 shading plate,
measure the short circuit current and register the value in the
table.
Continue with ½ cover, ¼ cover and without cover and
measure the corresponding currrent. Register the values in
the table.

Register the values in the diagram and connect the points.

Relative surface
0 ½ ¾ 1/1 of the solar cell
What can be concluded from the measurement?

The Short-Circuit Current of a Solar Cell / Shading Experiment 5 14

The No-Load Voltage and the Short-Circuit Current with different Irradiations Experiment 6
Setup

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller “Off”
Level 0-10
Halogen lamp
Sensor
2
IKS Position “90°”
1 mV =^ 1 W / m

Solar cells Voltmeter Amperemeter

Voltmeter
with sensor

Circuit diagram
 Information Irradiation
2
[W/m ]
When using solar cells as converters of energy, the amount of
irradiation is decisive. No-load
But this amount depends on the time of day, the season and voltage [mV]
the climatic conditions.
Short-circuit
How far do the no-load voltage and the short-circuit current
current [mA]
depend on the amount of irradiation?

Short-circuit current [mA]

Task

No-load voltage [mV]

Set up the experiment according to the figure above. The 600 600
parallel switching of 2 solar cells is done for a better
resolution with higher currents, but in principle, it should yield
the same result as for a single cell.
First of all, a multimeter is connected to the solar cells as a
voltmeter, the range selector switch is set to position “DCV
2,000 mV”.
The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”, the intensity
controller is, for the moment, at level 0. 400 400
In order to define the irradiation, connect the sockets of the
sensor to a multimeter, as depicted above. The range
selector switch must be set to position “DCV 2,000 mV”.
Hold the sensor with the backside directly in the centre of the
surface of the connected solar cell.
Do not switch off the sensor surface and the solar cell during
the measurement. 200 200
2
The value is displayed directly in W/m .
The sensor responds to an irradiation of at least
2
15 W/m approximately.
Adjust different amounts of irradiation from 0-10 at the
intensity controller and register the corresponding voltage
values in the table.

Then connect the multimeter to the amperemeter as shown.

The range selector switch must be set to position “DCA 2000 Irradiation
mA”. 0 50 100 150 2
[W/m ]
Set the same amounts of irradiation and the corresponding
current values in the table.

Transfer the values from the table to the diagram and connect
the measuring points. What conclusions can be made?

The No-Load Voltage and the Short-Circuit Current with different Irradiations Experiment 6 15
The Short-Circuit Current of a Solar Cell with different Angles of Irradiation Experiment 7
Setup

Amperemeter
Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 Position “0° - 90°”
Halogen lamp

Solar cells

Circuit diagram
 Information
Angle
90 75 60 45 30 15 0
The angle of incidence of sunlight in relation to the earth [°]
keeps changing in the course of the day and year.
Sunbeams hit the fixed solar cell in a different angle in the Short-circuit
morning than at noon. current [mA]
What is the relation between the angle of incidence of the

Short-circuit current [mA]

light on the solar cell and the short-circuit current?

300

200
Task

Set up the experiment according to the figure above.

Connect the multimeter as amperemeter as depicted. The

range selector switch must be at position
“DCA 2000 mA”.
The arm of the lamp is in position “Southward”, the intensity 100
controller is at level 10.

First adjust the solar cell housing to position “90°”, measure

the short-circuit current and register values in the table.
Now turn the solar cell housing until position “0°” by steps of
15° and register the corresponding values.

Transfer the values from the table to the diagram and connect
the measuring points.
0 15 30 45 60 75 90
What relations between angle of incidence of the light on the
solar cell and the shor-circuit current can be concluded from
this?

The Short-Circuit Current of a Solar Cell with different Angles of Irradiation Experiment 7 16
 Series Connection of Solar Cells / Shading Experiment 8
Setup

1 1

2 2

3 3

Voltmeter
4 4

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Voltmeter Amperemeter

Amperemeter Shading
plates

Circuit diagram No-load voltage Short-circuit current

 Information Table 1

Many electrical loads need a higher voltage than can be

Solar cell1 Solar cell 2 Solar cell 3 Solar cell 4
provided by a single solar cell with approx. 0.5 V.
Therefore, several solar cells are connected in series. No-load voltage
[mV]
What are the effects of a series connection of solar cells with
regard to no-load voltage, short-circuit current and the effect Short-circuit current
of shading a solar cell? [mA]

Task

Set up the experiment according to the left-hand figure

above.
The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”. The intensity
Table 2
controller is at level 10.
Connect a multimeter as voltmeter as depicted. The range
Series connection Series connection Series connection
selector switch must be set to position “DCV 20V”. Measure Solar cell 1 Solar cells 1+2 Solar cells 1+2+3 Solar cells 1+2+3+4
the no-load voltages for the individual solar cells 1 - 4 and
register the values in table 1. No-load voltage
Connect the second multimeter as amperemeter as depicted. [mV]
The range selector switch must be set to position Short-circuit current
“DCA 2000 mA”. Measure the short-circuit current for the [mA]
individual solar cells 1 - 4 and register the values in table 1.

Then set up a series connection of solar cells 1 and 2 / 1, 2

and 3 as well as of all four solar cells according to the right-
hand figure above and measure (with the same multimeter
settings) the no-load voltage and the short-circuit current of
the setup. Register the values in table 2.
Table 3
Finally, shade the solar cell with the lowest short-circuit
current in the series connection of all four solar cells gradually No ¼ ½ Complete
using the shade plates and register the current and voltage Shading Shading Shading Shading
values in table 3. No-load voltage
[mV]
What can be concluded after analysis of the individual tables? Short-circuit current
[mA]

Series Connection of Solar Cells / Shading Experiment 8 14

17
 Parallel Connection of Solar Cells / Shading Experiment 9
Setup

1 1

2 2

3 3

Voltmeter
4 4

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Voltmeter Amperemeter

Amperemeter Shading
plates

No-load voltage Short-circuit current

Circuit diagram
 Information Table 1

Many electrical loads require a higher current than can be

Solar cell 1 Solar cell 2 Solar cell 3 Solar cell 4
provided by a single solar cell.
In order to achieve a higher currrent, several solar cells are No-load voltage
connected in parallel. [mV]
What are the effects of a parallel connection of solar cells on Short-circuit current
the no-load voltage, the short-circuit current and the effect of [mA]
shading a solar cell?

Task

Set up the experiment according to the left-hand figure

above.
The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”. The intensity Table 2
controller is at level 10.
Connect a multimeter as voltmeter as depicted. The range Parallel connection Parallel connection Parallel connection
selector switch must be set to position “DCV 20V”. Measure Solar cell 1 Solar cells 1+2 Solar cells 1+2+3 Solar cells 1+2+3+4
the no-load voltages for the individual solar cells 1 - 4 and No-load voltage
register the values in table 1 (or take the values from [mV]
experiment 8).
Connect the second multimeter as amperemeter as depicted. Short-circuit current
The range selector switch must be set to position [mA]
“DCA 2000 mA”. Measure the short-circuit current for the
individual solar cells 1 - 4 and register the values in table 1.

Then set up a parallel connection of solar cells 1 and 2 / 1, 2

and 3 as well as of all four solar cells according to the right-
hand figure above and measure (with the same multimeter
settings) the no-load voltage and the short-circuit current of Table 3
the setup. Register the values in table 2.
No ¼ ½ Complete
Finally, shade the solar cell with the highest short-circuit Shading Shading Shading Shading
current in the parallel connection of all four solar cells No-load voltage
gradually using the shade plates and register the current and [mV]
voltage values in table 3.
Short-circuit current
What can be concluded after an analysis of the individual [mA]
tables?

Parallel Connection of Solar Cells / Shading Experiment 9 18

Voltage - Current Characteristic Curve of a Solar Cell Experiment 10
Setup

Solarmodul / Solar module Load 2

U
(Load as variable
load resistor)
I

Widerstand / Resistor

Last / Load 2 IKS

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 (8) Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Voltmeter Amperemeter

Circuit diagram
 Information Table 1 Full irradiation (Intensity controller level 10)
Voltage
If a load (load resistor) is connected to a solar cell, voltage [mV] 1200 1000 500 20
and current will have particular values.
Current [mA] 20 50 80 110 130 140 150 155
How do voltage and current change with different loads (load
resistor)?
Table 2 Lower irradiation (Intensity controller level 8)
Voltage
1500 1000 500 10
[mV]

Current [mA] 20 40 60 80 90 100 105 110

Task

Current [mA]
Set up the experiment according to the figure above.
The measurement is done in a parallel connection for a better
resolution. The curve shape in the diagram, however, is the
same as with a measurement with a single cell. 150

Connect a multimeter as voltmeter to the load as depicted.

The range selector switch must be set to position “DCV 20V”
(displayed value x 1000 = value in mV).
Connect the other multimeter as amperemeter as depicted.
The selector switch must be set to position “DCA 2000 mA”.
The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”, the solar 100
cells at position “90°”.
Two series of measurements are recorded. For this purpose,
the intensity controller is first at level 10, then at level 8.

Turn the knob of the load (load resistor) in the load 2 to the
right until the end position (greatest resistance).
Then turn the knob slowly to the left, until the required values
have been reached. 50
Register the values to be completed in the table.

Transfer the values of tables 1 and 2 to the diagram and

connect the corresponding measuring points.

What can be concluded after an analysis of the diagram?

0 500 1000 1500 2000

Voltage [mV]

Voltage - Current Characteristic Curve of a Solar Cell Experiment 10 19

Determination of the Efficiency Factor / MPP Experiment 11
Setup
Load 2
Solarmodul / Solar module (Load as variable
U
load resistor)

Widerstand / Resistor

Last / Load 2 IKS

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10

Halogen lamp
Sensor IKS

Position “90°”
2
1 mV =^ 1 W / m

Solar cells Voltmeter Amperemeter

Voltmeter with
sensor

Circuit diagram
 Information Voltage
[mV] 1300 1000 500 20
From the current / voltage value pairs measured in
experiment 10, page 19, one can calculate the electrical Current [mA] 20 50 80 110 130 140 150 160
power P = U x I (Note: 1V x 1A = 1 W and 1mV x 1mA =
0.001mW)
How great must the load resistance be for a maximum power Calculated
consumption from the solar cell? power [mW]

Current [mA]
Task

Power [mW]
Maximun Power Point - MPP
150 300
First conduct the experiment 10, series of measurements 1.
Calculate the electrical power from the current / voltage value
pairs and register it in the table.
Than register the current / voltage value pairs and the power /
voltage value pairs in the diagram and connect the measuring
points.
Mark the Maximum Power Point! 100 200

Determination of the effciency factor of a solar cell

The efficiency factor h is defined as follows:

Power output
Power input
The power output is the calculated maximum power of a solar 50 100
cell (MPP).

The power input is determined by the value of irradiation,

multiplied by the overall surface of the four solar cells.

In order to determine the irradiation, connect the sockets of

the sensor to a multimeter, as depicted above. The range
selector switch must be set to position “DCV 2,000 m”.
Hold the sensor with the backside directly in the centre of the
surface of the connected solar cell. 0 500 1000 1500 2000
Do not switch off sensor surface and solar cell during the Voltage [mV]
Calculated maximum power of the solar cell in the MPP:
measurement.
2
The value is displayed directly in W/m . Measured irradiation:
Overall surface of the 4 solar cells:
The measurements of a solar cell are 5 x 10 cm.
Irradiation power hitting the whole of the solar cell surface:
Efficiency factor h = = x 100 = %

Determination of the Efficiency Factor / MPP Experiment 11 20

Simulation of a Daily Course Experiment 12
Setup

Position “Eastwards … Westwards”

Intensity controller level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Amperemeter

Circuit diagram
 Information
E ESE SE SSE S SSW SW WSW W
The angle of the sunlight hitting a fixed solar cell keeps
changing from sunrise to sunset. Short-circuit
Depending on the location (latitude) of the solar cell, the current [mA]
angle also depends on the time of year.

Current [mA]
Therefore, the alignment according to orientation on one side
and the horizontal tilt angle are decisive for the possible
maximum energy yield.
Since the sun’s orbit, as seen from the earth, keeps changing 600
from day to day for a location in Europe, it is important to find
the alignment of the solar cell that yields the maximum
amount of energy all year through.

400
Task

Set up the experiment according to the figure above.

The two central solar cells are connected in parallel.
Connect the multimeter as amperemeter as depicted. The
range selector switch must be set to position “DCA 2000 mA”.
The intensity controller is set to level 10. 200

Adjust the arm of the lamp in position “Eastwards” and

register the value for the short-circuit current in the table.
Then bring the arm of the lamp gradually to position
“Westwards” and take down the respective values for the
short-circuit current.
E ESE SE SSE S SSW SW WSW W
Then register the corresponding current values above the
orientations in the diagram.
Orientation
What are the conclusions after an analysis of the diagram?
(See also experiment 7, page 16)

For what location is the orbit of the sun from sunrise to sunset
as seen from the earth always the same all through the year?
What is the horizontal tilt angle of the solar cell yielding the
highest amount of energy to be selected for this location?

And for your location? What needs to be taken into account?

Simulation of a Daily Course Experiment 12 21

 Charging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator with a Solar Cell Experiment 13
Setup

Akkumulator / Accumulator
Storage Akkumulator / Accumulator
Storage
(GoldCap capacitator) (GoldCap capacitator)
1
U = 1,2 V U = 1,2 V
C = 65 mAh C = 65 mAh

Gold Cap Gold Cap

2 Umax = 2,3 V
C = 10 F
Umax = 2,3 V
C = 10 F

Speicher / Storage IKS Speicher / Storage IKS

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Amperemeter Voltmeter Amperemeter Voltmeter

Circuit diagram
 Information
Time [Sec] 10 20 30 60 90 120 150 180 210 240 300 360
A solar cell provides electrical energy only when it is
irradiated. Voltage
If a load is to be operated in darkness, a part of the electrical [mV]
energy converted during irradiation must be stored.
This is usually done with the help of an accumulator or - for Current [mA]
loads with a very low energy demand - a “GoldCap”
capacitator.

Current [mA]
Task

Voltage [mV]
A Connect the solar cells in series and connect them to the 2000 200
two upper sockets of a “GoldCap” capacitator via a
multimeter as amperemeter. Range selector switch to
position “DCA 2000 mA”. Connect the other multimeter as
voltmeter to the upper contacts. Range selector switch at
position “DCV 20”. Adjust intensity controller to level 10,
the arm of the lamp to position “Southwards”. 1.500 150
Make sure that the capacitator is discharged.
Charge the capacitor until there is no more current flowing.
What voltage is applied to the “GoldCap” capacitator?

B Switch the halogen lamp off and shade the solar cells
completely with a notebook (night situation).
Observe the amperemeter. What happens? 1.000 100

C Now, by connecting a bulb additionally as load (Load 1) to

the upper sockets of the “GoldCap” capacitator, discharge
the capacitator completely (voltage 0 V), then disconnect
the bulb.
Plug the cables of the solar cells into the two lower sockets 500 50
of the GoldCap capacitator.
The voltmeter remains connected to the upper sockets.
Recharge the “GoldCap” capacitator until there is no more
current flowing. Repeat experiment B.
Observe the amperemeter. What happens?
What voltage does now apply to the “GoldCap”
capacitator? What is the role of the diode in the circuit?
0 60 120 180 240 300 360
D Discharge again completely the “GoldCap” capacitator (s. A Time [Sec]
C),
Charge capacitator, register voltage, current and the period B
of time in the table. Then transfer the values to the diagram
and connect the corresponding measuring points. What C
conclusions can be drawn from the diagram?
D

Charging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator with a Solar Cell Experiment 13 22

 Discharging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator Experiment 14
Setup

Akkumulator / Accumulator Akkumulator / Accumulator

Storage (GoldCap U = 1,2 V

C = 65 mAh Load 1 Storage (GoldCap U = 1,2 V
C = 65 mAh Load 1
capacitator) Gold Cap
(Electric motor) capacitator) Gold Cap
(Bulb)

Umax = 2,3 V Umax = 2,3 V

C = 10 F C = 10 F

Speicher / Storage IKS IKS Speicher / Storage IKS IKS

Amperemeter Voltmeter Amperemeter Voltmeter

Circuit diagram
 Information Table 1: Electric motor as load

How does a “GoldCap” capacitator behave when a load is Time [Sec] 0 10 20 30 60 120 180 240 300 360 420 480
applied to it?
Voltage
Task [mV]

First load the “GoldCap” capacitator as described in Current [mA]

experiment 13, page 22 (via diode).
Table 2: Bulb as load
Then set up the experiment according to the left-hand figure
above.
Time [Sec] 0 10 20 30 60 120 180 240 300 360 420 480
Connect the electric motor as load to the upper sockets of the
“GoldCap” capacitator via a multimeter as amperemeter, Voltage
range selector switch to position “DCA 2000 mA” - do not yet [mV]
make the positive connection at the electric motor.
Current [mA]
Connect the other multimeter as voltmeter to the GoldCap
capacitator as depicted. Range selector switch to position
“DCV 2000 mV”.

Current [mA]
Voltage [mV]
Switch the halogen lamp off and discharge the “GoldCap” 150 100
capacitator with the electric motor (plug in positive cable).
During the discharging process, observe voltage and current
and take down the period of time for discharging. 120
Register the values in table 1.

Repeat the above-mentioned step, but now use the bulb as

load, as in the right-hand figure above.
Register the values in table 2. 50
60
Then transfer the values to the diagram and connect the
corresponding measured values.

What conclusions can be drawn from the diagram?

For what application is the examined storage suitable?

0 150 300 450 600

Time[Sec]

Discharging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Accumulator Experiment 14 23

Setting up an Isolated System Experiment 15
Setup

Akkumulator / Accumulator Storage (left)

(GoldCap capacitator)
1
U = 1,2 V
C = 65 mAh

Gold Cap

Load 1 (right)
2 Umax = 2,3 V
C = 10 F
(Electric motor / Bulb)
Speicher / Storage IKS IKS

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells Amperemeter Amperemeter

Circuit diagram
 Information A B B

If a solar cell is connected to an energy storage element and

a load, one obtains an isolated system in its simplest form.
Depending on irradiation, state of charge of the storage
element and operation of the load, different current flows and
current strengths are produced in the system.

Task
The diagram on the page above and the circuit diagram show
such an isolated system.

Conduct the following experiments and draw the directions of

the current flows with arrows in the right hand circuit
diagrams:
C D
A The solar cells are connected in series according to circuit
diagram A and are connected to the two lower sockets of
the “GoldCap” capacitator via a multimeter as
amperemeter. Range selector switch to position “DCA 2000
mA”, intensity controller to level 10, arm of the lamp in
position “Southwards”. Charge capacitator until there is no
more current flowing.

B Set up the experiment according to circuit diagram B.

Connect the electric motor to the upper sockets of the
“GoldCap” capacitator, with the second multimeter as
amperemeter, selector switch at position “DCA 2000 mA”.
The halogen lamp is switched off.
Run the electric motor for about 3 minutes.
What are your observations?

C Now connect the bulb as additional load in parallel to the

electric motor until the “GoldCap” capacitator is completely
discharged (circuit diagram C). Observe the
amperemeters. What happens?

D Switch the halogen lamp back on, with the intensity

controller to position 10 (circuit diagram D).
Observe the amperemeters. What happens?

E What conditions do the individual components have to

meet for the optimum functionality of an isolated system?

Setting up an Isolated System Experiment 15 24

PC-supported Recording of Measured Values: Voltage - Current Characteristic Curve of a Solar Cell Experiment 16
Setup
Data logger

Solarmodul / Solar module Eingang / Input 1 Ausgang PC/

Umax = 2,5 V DC Output PC

Serielle
Schnittstelle
U U

I I
Serial
interface

Eingang / Input 2
Widerstand / Resistor Imax = 200 m A DC

aus ein
off on

Last / Load 2 IKS Data logger IKS

Load 2
(Load as variable
load resistor)

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 (8)
Halogen lamp
PC
Connection of the RS 232
Position “90°” interface of the data logger
to the COM interface of the PC
Solar cells

Circuit diagram

Input 1

Voltage

Input 2

Current
 Information
PC-supported measurement technology makes it possible to
display the diagram obtained in experiment 10 directly on the
screen through loading and processing of the data. Please
read first the instruction on experiment 10 on page 19.
Switch on data logger.
Press button “OK” to start the recording (logging) of a x/y characteristic curve.
An empty diagram window appears on the screen. In this diagram window, there is a grey field with two
digital displays for current and voltage.
Turn the knob of the load (load resistor) in load 2 until you reach the end position (greatest resistance).
Press the button “OK”. The measured values are saved.

Task
Set up the experiment according to the figure above.
The measurement is done in a series connection for a better
resolution. The curve shape in the diagram, however, is the
same as with a measurement with a single cell.
The arm of the lamp is at position “Southwards”, the solar
cells at position “90°”.
Two series of measurements are recorded. The intensity
controller is at position 10 for the first diagram and at position
8 for the second diagram.
Install PC software IKS - Solartrainer according to the
instruction on page 6 and start program.
Click on menu “Measuring” and select “x/y Characteristic
curve.
Make the following entries:
Then turn the knob slowly to the left, until a current of 30 mA is reached.
Press the button “OK”, the values are transferred to the diagram.
Keep turning the knob slowly to the left, until current has increased by 5 mA.
Press the button “OK”, the values are transferred to the diagram.
Continue according to this scheme until no further increase in current is possible.
Use the button “Abort” to end the measurement and then save.
For the second diagram, start a new measurement, proceed as for the fist diagram.
The parameters remain the same, but give another name such as
“IU characteristic curve of a solar cell, lower irradiation.” *.
* do not use special characters!

Name: e.g. IU characteristic curve of a solar cell*

Vertical Axis (Current)

Min. Value : 0
Max. Value :180
Graduation : 10
Unit : mA
Factor :200
Offset : 0

Horizontal Axis (Voltage)

Min. Value : 0
Max. Value : 2.2 (Dot symbol!!!)
Graduation : 0.1 (Dot symbol!!!)
Unit : V
Factor : 2.5 (Dot symbol!!!)
Offset : 0

PC-supported Recording of Measured Values: Voltage - Current Characteristic Curve of a Solar Cell Experiment 16 25
PC - supported Recording of Measured Values: Conversion of Direct Current to Alternating Current Experiment 17
Setup

Eingang / Input 1 Ausgang PC/

Eingang/Input 1 Ausgang/Output 1 Umax = 2,5 V DC Output PC
Umax = 2 V DC Signal Sinus

Serielle

= Schnittstelle

1 U

~
U

U
= I
Serial
interface

Eingang/Input 2 Ausgang/Output 2 Eingang / Input 2

Umax = 2 V DC Signal Rechteck Imax = 200 m A DC

2 aus
off
Signal rectangle
ein
on
aus
off
ein
on

Inverter IKS Data logger IKS

Inverter Data logger

3

Position “Southwards”
Intensity controller level 10 Position “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells

PC
Connection of the RS 232
interface of the data logger
to COM interface of the PC
Circuit diagram
Input 1 Input 1
Input 1 Output 1

Sinusoidal shape Voltage

Voltage

Input 2 Output 2

Rectangular shape

Inverter Data logger Inverter Data logger

 Information Horizontal Axis (Time channel)

A solar cell as energy source produces direct current.
Many loads, however, require a 230 V alternating current for
their operation.
Therefore an inverter is required to operate an alternating
current load with energy from solar cells.
Such an inverter can, for example, convert 12V direct current
to 230V alternating current.
For isolated systems and low power rates, inverters with
rectangular alternating current are sometimes used (cost-
efficient), for higher power rates or sensitive loads, one uses
inverters with sinusoidal alternating current.
For bigger plants, the current is fed into the public power
supply network via an inverter with equal voltage and
frequency (Grid-connected operation).
Sampling interval : 0.02 (Dot symbol!!!)
Overall measuring time : 5
Switch on data logger and inverter.
Press the button “OK”, the diagram is recorded (logged).
During recording, the message “Measuring” appears.
When the set overall measuring time has passed, the measured curve will appear on the screen.
Save diagram, if required.
Now make the connections to the inverter with rectangular alternating current and start new
measurement with the same parameters.
( Name: z.B. Inverter rectangular)

Task

Set up the experiment according to the figure above.

Install the PC software IKS - Solartrainer according to the
instruction on page 6 and start the program.

Click on menu “Measuring” and select y/t characteristic curve.

Make the following entries:

Name : e.g. Inverter sinusoidal

Vertical Axis 1 (Voltage channel)

Min. Value : -1
Max. Value : +1
Graduation : 0.2 (Dot symbol!!!)
Unit : V
Factor : 2.5 (Dot symbol!!!)
Offset : -1
Active : activated

Vertical Axis 2 (Current channel)

Active : deactivated

PC - supported Recording of Measured Values: Conversion of Direct Current to Alternating Current Experiment 17 26
 Messung der Bestrahlungsstärke
PC-supported Recording of Measured
verschiedener
Values: Charging
Lichtquellen
/ Discharging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Battery Experiment 18
14a
Setup
Aufbau

Eingang / Input 1 Ausgang PC/ Akkumulator / Accumulator

Akkumulator / Accumulator
Umax = 2,5 V DC Output PC

Serielle
Schnittstelle

1 U

U = 1,2 V
U = 1,2 V
C = 65 mAh
C = 65 mAh
Gold Cap
Gold Cap I
Serial
interface

Eingang / Input 2
Imax = 200 m A DC

2 Umax = 2,3 V
C = 10 F
aus
off
ein
on
Umax = 2,3 V
C = 10 F

IKS IKS
Speicher / Storage IKS IKS Speicher / Storage
Data logger

Storage Data logger Eingang / Input 1 Ausgang PC/

3 (GoldCap
Umax = 2,5 V DC Output PC

Serielle
Schnittstelle

capacitator) U

I
Serial

4 Eingang / Input 2
interface

Imax = 200 m A DC

aus ein
off on

Position “Southwards” Data logger IKS

Intensity controller level 10 Stellung “90°”

Halogen lamp Solar cells

PC
Connection of the RS 232
Interface of the data logger
to COM interface of the PC
Schaltpan
Circuit diagram

Input 1

Input 1

Voltage
Voltage

Input 2
Input 2

Current Current
 Information Horizontal Axis (Time channel)

PC-supported measurement technology makes it possible to Sampling interval : 0.2 (Dot symbol!!!)
display the diagram obtained in experiments 13 and 14 Overall measuring time : 450
directly on the screen through loading and processing of the
data via PC. Please read first the instruction on experiments Switch on data logger. Now plug the negative cable into the data logger and at the same time start
13 and 14 on pages 22-23. program with “OK”. The measurement ends automatically when the set time interval has passed.
Otherwise end measurement by selecting “Abort measurement” in the menu “Measuring”.
Save diagram, if required.

Task Now set up the experiment according to the right-hand figure above, but do not plug the negative
cable of the GoldCap not into the data logger as yet.
First set up the experiment according to the left-hand figure Click on menu “Measuring” and select y/t diagram. Make the following entries:
above, but do not plug the negative cable of the solar
cells into the data logger as yet. Name : e.g. Discharging GoldCap capacitator with bulb
Make sure the capacitator is discharged.
Install the PC software IKS - Solartrainer according to the Verticale Axis 1 (Voltage channel)
instruction on page 6 and start program.
Min. Value : 0
Click on menu “Measuring” and select “y/t diagram”. Max. Value : 1.6 (Dot symbol!!!)
Make the following entries: Graduation : 0.2 (Dot symbol!!!)
Unit : V
Name : e.g. Charging GoldCap capacitator Factor : 2.5 (Dot symbol!!!)
Offset : 0
Vertical Axis 1 (Voltage channel) Active : activated
Min. Value : 0 Vertical Axis 2 (Current channel)
Max. Value : 1.6 (Dot symbol!!!)
Graduation : 0.2 (Dot symbol!!!) Min. Value : 0
Unit : V Max. Value :100
Factor : 2.5 (Dot symbol!!!) Graduation : 10
Offset : 0 Unit : mA
Active : activated Factor :200
Offset : 0
Verticale Axis 2 (Current channel) Active : activated
Min. Value : 0 Horizontal Axis (Time channel)
Max. Value :180
Graduation : 10 Sampling interval : 0.2 (Dot symbol!!!)
Unit : mA Overall measuring time :.... 450
Factor :200
Offset : 0 Switch on data logger. Now plug the negative cable into the data logger and start program with “OK”.
Active : activated The measurement ends automatically after the set time interval has passed.
Otherwise end measurement with “Abort Measurement” in the menu “Measuring”.
Save diagram, if required. Repeat experiments with electric motor as load.

PC-supported Recording of Measured Values: Charging / Discharging of a GoldCap Capacitator / Battery Experiment 18 27
Messung
Circuit symbols
der Bestrahlungsstärke verschiedener Lichtquellen Experiment 14a

Solar cell / Solar cell unit

Irradition from the lamp

(Sun)

Battery

Sensor

Variable resistor

Lamp

Motor

Connecting socket
28