Testing & Commissioning
Testing Performed by Halcyon Solar
- ISC (Short Circuit Current)
- VOC (Open Circuit Voltage)
- IMP (Current at max power point)
- VMP (Voltage at max power point)
- Irradiance (Measurement of light in W/M²)
- Cell temperature
- Megger Testing
- Thermal Imaging
- Shade Analysis
- IV Curve tracing
ISC (Short Circuit Current) is a measurement of current within an electrical circuit while shorted. This measurement can be recorded on circuits that consist of a single module or circuits of multiple modules. Information obtained by ISC testing in combination with Irradiance, cell temperature, and VOC (Open Circuit Voltage) can be compared to the module manufacturer’s specifications to determine if a module or circuit of multiple modules is operating correctly.
VOC (Open Circuit Voltage) is a measurement of electrical pressure within a circuit. This measurement is recorded while the circuit is open, (no current is present). Information obtained by VOC testing in combination with Irradiance, cell temperature, and ISC (Short Circuit Current) can be compared to the module manufacture’s specifications to determine if a module or circuit of multiple modules is operating correctly. The information can also be compared to inverter or charge controller manufacturers specifications to ensure that the circuit of modules meets the voltage requirements for proper operation of the inverter or charge controller.
IMP (Current at Max Power Point) is a measurement of current within an electrical circuit while operational. This measurement can be recorded at individual modules or circuits of multiple modules. Information obtained by IMP testing in combination with Irradiance, cell temperature, and VMP (Voltage at Max Power Point) can determine how an inverter or charge controller is utilizing a solar array, when compared to module and inverter / charge controller manufacture’s specifications.
VMP (Voltage at Max Power Point) is a measurement of electrical pressure within a circuit. This measurement is recorded while the circuit is operational. Information obtained by VMP testing in combination with Irradiance, cell temperature, and IMP (Current at Max Power Point) can be compared to the module and inverter / charge controller manufacture’s specifications to determine if an inverter or charge controller is utilizing a solar array to its maximum potential.
Irradiance (Measurement of Light in W/M²) is a measurement of potential solar power (sunlight intensity) in a given area. This power is measured in Watts for an area of 1 square meter. The information obtained from this test can be used to correct current values stated on module manufacturers specification sheets from STC (standard test conditions) to real world environmental conditions. This information is a necessity when testing ISC (Short Circuit Current), and IMP (Current at Max Power Point) as a correction factor must be applied when comparing field tested current values to information stated by the module manufacturer.
Cell Temperature is a measurement of temperature at the module cell level. This measurement will be tested and recorded in Celsius for easy comparison to a modules STC (Standard Test Conditions) values. The information obtained from this test can be used to correct Voltage values stated on module manufacturers specification sheets from STC to real world environmental conditions. This information is a necessity when testing VOC (Open Circuit Voltage), and VMP (Voltage at Max Power Point) as a correction factor must be applied when comparing field tested Voltages to information stated by the module manufacturer.
Megger Testing is a measurement of resistance in an electrical conductor’s insulation. Information obtained from this testing can determine defects in the insulation of an electrical conductor. These defects can cause a failure of the conductor’s insulation resulting in ground faults and short circuits.
Thermal Imaging is a photographic record of an electrical systems surface temperature. This information is useful when identifying poor electrical connections and possible manufacturing defects within photovoltaic modules, as these areas within the electrical circuit develop excess heat. If these areas within the electrical circuit are not corrected they could result in a circuit failure. Thermal imaging can also provide a visual record before and after repairs.
Shade Analysis is an extensive mapping of the skyline around a solar array to identify areas of possible shading obstructions. This information can help determine the prime location for a future solar array or quantify the amount of loss a solar system has due to shading.
IV Curve Tracing is a complete test of a module or circuit of multiple modules IV Curve. This test measures light, cell temperature, ISC (Short Circuit Current), and VOC (Open Circuit Voltage) while testing the operational voltage and current at intervals along the IV curve. This information can be used to confirm the maximum power point of modules in the field as well as determine the available wattage of the tested module or circuit. Photo on left shows a good IV curve photo on right shows a bad curve
