PCE-SPM 1 Solar Radiation Meter
with integrated sensor that determines energy efficiency in photovoltaic systems / also used to find the optimum location for new installations

The PCE-SPM 1 solar radiation meter is the optimal device for solar engineers, architects and those working in the field of solar engineering. This solar radiation meter will measure solar power. Parameters such as current and voltage can also be measured with an optional multimeter with data logger, device. This allows the user to take measurements over extended periods of time to determine the compilation and layout of a  photovoltaic system. Light intensity is measured using a silicon crystal. The integrated processor in the solar radiation meter is responsible to make automatic corrections to ensure accuracy after calibrating each device in the solar simulator. The most important parameter is P_tot (in W/m²) and can be seen clearly on the display. Data saved in the internal memory (32,000 readings) can be transferred to a computer by way of software and cable connection. This solar radiation meter has been developed for the use outside and is made of a durable enclosure that is weather resistant. Its compact design makes it an ergonomic device. If there are any questions about this solar radiation meter PCE-SPM 1, please have a look at the technical specification below or call: UK customers +44(0) 23 809 870 30 / US customers +1-410-387-7703. Our engineers and technicians will gladly advise you regarding the radiation detectors or any other products in terms of regulation and control, or scales and balances of PCE Instruments.

- Measurements of solar energy can be 
  taken in situ , power output/ insulation: Ptot
- Measurements can be taken over periods of
  time thanks to the internal memory for up to
  32,000 readings
- Software to analyze and transferring data
  comes included
- Possibility to make a comparative solar
  measurement
- Minimum, maximum and data hold functions
- Powered by 4 lithium-ion batteries for approx.
 16 days of continuous use

Examples of use

1. Solar measurement in situ
With the radiation meter, a measurement can be taken of the energy in a specific location. These readings can be used to verify the operating ratio of modules or photovoltaic installations.

2. Simulation of temperature, power, voltage and current of photovoltaic modules.
Note: a multimeter that we have available.

3. Prolonged measurements
The device is equipped with an internal data logger to take measurements over extended periods of time.

Solar radiation
The radiation meter recognizes complete solar radiation; the direct radiation as well as diffused solar radiation in the atmosphere. The biggest amount of the solar radiation that is reflected by the sun is in the visible infrared spectrum , as ultraviolet radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere. Solar radiation can last up to a year, as the angle of reflection is greater in the summer than it is in the winter and the rays fall more directly on the surface of the earth.

Technical specifications

Measurement range

0 to 2,000 W/m²

Resolution

1 W/m2

Accuracy

±10 W/m² or ±5%
(highest value is correct)

Spectral range

400 to 1,100nm

Memory

32,000 readings

Measurement quota

adjustable

Data transmission

RS-232 port

Display

LCD

Operating conditions

0 to 50ºC; <80% r.h.

Power

4 Lithium-ion batteries
(approx. 16 days of continuous use)

Dimensions

111 x 64 x 34mm

Weight

165g

Delivery Content
PCE-SPM 1 solar radiation meter, internal sensor, RS-232 cable, software, 4 batteries, carrying case and user's manual

Optional accessories
- ISO laboratory calibration with certificate
for companies that wish to include this device in their set of internal testing tools or for annual recalibrations. The certificate meets the ISO 9000 standard and includes a laboratory calibration and a control document with all the measurement values.

- Tripod
The radiation meter can be mounted upon a tripod and positioned to take measurements over a period of time. There is a mini tripod included in order to place it on table tops. This optional tripod is much larger.

- Multimeter with memory
Additional to the solar radiation meter you can use a Multimeter to capture additional voltage, current,... With data from both functions, calculations can be made to analyze the conditions of a photovoltaic installation.

Contact:
PCE Instruments UK Limited
Unit 11 Southpoint Business Park
Ensign Way, Southampton
United Kingdom, SO31 4RF
Phone: +44(0) 23 809 870 30
Fax: +44(0) 23 809 870 39

Contact:
PCE Americas Inc.
1201 Jupiter Park Drive, Suite 8
Jupiter 33458 FL
USA
Phone: +1-410-387-7703
Fax: +1-410-387-7714