I-V Curves and PV Performance Verification

The PVA-1500 PV Analyzer Kit is a 1500 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.

In addition to the 1500V measurement capability, the PVA-1500 has a few additional enhancements over its predecessor, the PVA-1000S, including using WiFi to communicate to your tablet or laptop. This eliminates the USB dongle required for the PVA-1000S.

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. In an example PV system with 1300V Voc, 16 strings per combiner box, and 5 minutes to move to next combiner box, the PVA can make more than 800 measurements at 25°C ambient and 250 measurements at 45°C ambient. 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.