For Photovoltaic Systems - PROFITEST PV

Using the sun as a revenue generator is not only clever, it can also be profitable!

In keeping with the motto,
"connect - switch on - start measurement - read results - done", GOSSEN METRAWATT is introducing a peak power and characteristic curve measuring instrument to the market, namely the PROFITEST PV.

The field of photovoltaic has experienced rapid development since its beginnings in recent years. Insight and growing knowledge regarding the finite nature of fossil fuels and nuclear energy sources, as well as their consequences for the environment, have reawakened interest in solar technology.

The PROFITEST PV provides a peak power and characteristic curve measuring instrument for photovoltaic systems with auto-ranging up to 1000 V / 20 A.

The PROFiTEST-PV allows for the measurement of characteristic I U curves, as well as individual photovoltaic modules and strings. With the help of a patented process, the instrument is capable of ascertaining peak power, series resistance and parallel resistance directly on-site "with only one measurement and without entering module data", which are then indicated at a high resolution, color graphic touch-screen which is suitable for use in sunlight.

Troubleshooting in PV systems, as well as documentation of system quality, are executed quickly and economically during initial start-up and subsequent testing without a long learning curve. This simple yet decisive test assures safety for the customer and eliminates consequential costs for the installer. Measured peak power can, for example, also be used in order to determine peak ratio. Beyond this, acquired characteristic curves make it possible to draw further conclusions regarding the electrical characteristics of the measured module or string. And thus the tester is also suitable for use in research and development.

Outstanding features of the PROFITEST PV:

Uniform measurement of the characteristic I-U curve at capacitive loads and strings
Measurement of short-circuit current Isc, open circuit voltage Uoc, instantaneous peak power of a solar cell Pmax, series resistance Rs and internal parallel resistance Rp
Displayed (calculated) values: peak power P_Pk, internal series resistance R_S, internal parallel resistance R_P, instantaneous values: U_Pmax, I_Pmax, P_max, U_OC, I_SC, FF, T_mod, T_ref, E_TRMS, characteristic I-U curve diagram
Automatic conversion of momentary measured values to STC (standard test conditions)
Generator voltages up to 1000 V DC, current up to 20 A DC, power up to 2 kW
Power and temperature measurement via four-conductor cable for error-free results
Patented calculation process for evaluating PV generators without knowledge of the manufacturer's specifications
Patented calculation process for determining the generator's internal series resistance based solely on a measured characteristic I-U curve
Internal data memory for up to several thousand measurements
Continuous display of momentary irradiation and temperature provides information regarding measuring conditions
Separate measurement of temperatures at the irradiation sensor and the back of the module (Pt100) for increased measuring accuracy
Universal input for use with commercially available irradiation reference sensors, assuring trouble-free on-site use of adapted sensors and sensor replacement
Operation via a PC with direct import of measurements is also possible (e.g. for long-term measurements)
External power pack with broad-range input for charging the batteries, and for continuous operation of the measuring instrument
Open interfaces allow for operation of the instrument in special applications as well.
High level of intrinsic safety thanks to included load disconnector (1000 V / 32 A DC) for all-pole disconnection of the measuring instrument from the PV generator
Calibrated irradiation sensor in accordance with IEC / EN 60904-2,
VDE 0126-4-2 with integrated Pt1000 temperature sensor
According to IEC / EN / VDE, a calibrated reference solar cell is required.

Press Release 3 April 2011 - Foto PROFITEST PV, Case - Product Page