Photovoltaic solar modules are a very important part of the renewable energy sector. They are used in small-scale systems generating a few kilowatts up to commercial solar power plants that generate megawatts of power.

  The most common type of solar modules use an array of silicon solar cells, which is the type used in the trainer.

  The measuring unit has displays for irradiation intensity, module temperature, voltage and current. The supplied rheostat enables plotting of voltage versus current characteristics. Two power resistors can be used to extend the measuring range to lower irradiation levels.

  The system should be operated with sufficient irradiation intensity using direct sunlight or the optionally available artificial light source HL 313.01.

  For extending the learning objectives measuring instruments for field operation or a multimetre can be optionally used.

  The well-structured instructional material sets out the fundamentals and provides a step-by-step guide through the experiments.

- Physical behaviour of solar modules under various

  conditions
  * irradiation
  * shadowing

- Familiarisation with the most important 

  characteristic variables
  * short circuit current
  * open circuit voltage

  * current at maximum power point (MPP)
  * voltage at maximum power point (MPP)
  * irradiation intensity

- Correlation of angle of inclination, irradiation

  intensity, short circuit current and electrical power

- Plotting of voltage vs. current characteristics for a

  module

- Temperature behaviour and its relevance for

  comparison with standard test conditions (STC)

- Connection modes of modules
  * serial connection
  * parallel connection

- Shadowing behaviour based on voltage vs. current

  characteristic

- Professional usage of measuring instruments for

  field operation (instruments not supplied)