This unit (excluding Remote Solar Detector 1012) passes

PROVA 1011 the following tests:

EN 61010-1: 2010
Solar System Analyzer
EN 61010-2-030: 2010
Users Manual CAT II 1000V, CAT III 300V
Pollution Degree 2
EN61326-1: 2006 Class B
(CISPR 11: 2009/A1: 2010 Group 1 Class B,
EN 61326-1: 2006, IEC 61000-4-2: 2008,
IEC 61000-4-3: 2006+A1:2007+A2:2010,
IEC 61000-4-8: 2009)

Safety Symbols

Please read the statement thoroughly to prevent injury or

loss of life, and prevent damage to this product.

Earth (ground)

DC (Direct Current)
PROVA INSTRUMENTS INC.
 Do Not charge the lithium battery
Conforms to relevant European Union
when the ambient temperature
directives.
exceeds 45℃ / 113℉ .
Do not dispose of this instrument as unsorted
municipal waste. Contact a qualified © 2013 PROVA INSTRUMENTS INC. All rights reserved.

recycler for disposal.

Caution:
1. The ventilation openings on the unit should
not be blocked.
2. Please pay attention to polarity of DC input,
follow the polarity info by the input jack.

Caution, Risk of Electric Shock.

This equipment is not for

measurements performed for CAT IV.

Please remove all the test leads

before performing maintenance,
cleaning, battery replacement, fuse
replacement, etc.
Do Not plug in the AC adapter when
the ambient temperature exceeds
45℃ / 113℉ .
 Table of Contents Table of Contents

D. Verify the Best Installation Angles of Solar Panels.................. 51

I. Preparation ............................................................................................1 VI. Specifications ..................................................................................... 52
II. Features .................................................................................................2 A. Electrical Specifications ......................................................... 52
III. Panel Description..................................................................................4 B. General Specifications ............................................................ 56
A. Solar system analyzer................................................................4 VII. Battery Replacement (Recharging) .................................................. 59
B. Remote Solar Detector 1012 (with Thermometer).................11 VIII. Fuse Replacement.............................................................................. 62
IV. Operation ............................................................................................ 13 IX. Maintenance & Cleaning.................................................................... 63
A. Connecting Diagram ............................................................... 14
B. AUTO SCAN ............................................................................. 19
C. REPORT.................................................................................... 23
D. FILE LIST .................................................................................. 25
E. REF MODULE........................................................................... 27
F. SOFTWARE KEYBOARD ........................................................ 29
G. ZERO Calibration..................................................................... 30
H. Data Logging............................................................................ 31
I. Clear Recorded (File) Data and Restore Defaults ................ 33
J. SETUP Parameters.................................................................. 34
K. THERMOMETER Setup ........................................................... 36
L. POWER Mode .......................................................................... 37
M. Irradiance/Temperature (Irr Tc) Mode .................................... 44
V. Application Notes............................................................................... 47
A. Quality Control at Production Line, Warehouse, or Site of
Installation. ....................................................................................... 47
B. Identify Requirements of Solar Power System ........................ 48
C. Maintenance of Solar Panels...................................................... 49

I II
I. Preparation II. Features

This Solar system analyzer and the Remote solar detector use rechargeable ■ I-V curve test for solar system
lithium batteries. ■ Max. solar system power (Pmax) search by Auto-scan:
1000V, 12A (12000W capability)
The rechargeable lithium batteries are pre-installed in the solar system ■ The analyzer and the Remote Solar Detector is connected by Bluetooth
analyzer and the Remote solar detector at the factory. wireless communication (Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR Class 1).
■ The Remote Solar Detector is moisture-proof.
The Solar System Analyzer ■ Intelligent test logic with no personnel attendance required in the field.
Solar system analyzer waits and tests the system until appropriate
Before using the new rechargeable lithium battery, please charge it for sunlight irradiance is detected.
10~12 hours continuously for better battery life. ■ Max. voltage (Vpm) at Pmax
■ Max. current (Ipm) at Pmax
Users can plug in the AC adaptor and no need to turn on the Analyzer. ■ Voltage at open circuit (Voc)
Then the rechargeable lithium battery is charged automatically. ■ Current at short circuit (Isc)
■ Efficiency (%) calculation of solar system
The Remote Solar Detector (RSD) ■ Temperature measurement of solar panels
■ Irradiance measurement of sun light
Before using the new rechargeable lithium battery, please charge it for 4 ■ Series resistance (Rs) calculation of solar panels
hours continuously for better battery life. ■ I-V curve with cursor to display each data point
■ With data logging/open function, the I-V curves of solar system can be
Users can connect the USB power cord with the RSD and a PC USB port, analyzed/recorded for a period of time (e.g. 60 min.)
then the rechargeable lithium battery is charged automatically. ■ Conversion of I-V curve under OPC to data under standard test
condition (STC) based upon IEC standard
■ Provide OPerating Condition (OPC) and Standard Test Condition (STC)
test reports for verification of solar panel performance (OK, or NO OK)
■ Users can set up the parameters of solar panels

1 2
■ Users can set up the series number of solar panels. Parameters of
many solar panels can be measured in one measurement. III. Panel Description
■ The irradiances and temperatures of solar panels can be continuously
measured, monitored and recorded. A. Solar system analyzer
■ Built-in calendar clock A-1 FRONT PANEL
■ AC power adaptor
■ Rechargeable lithium battery, low battery warning
■ Optical USB cable for PC
■ With optional power clamps (SOLAR 15 DC Current Probe and SOLAR
21 AC Power Clamp), continuously measure/monitor/record the DC 11
power output of solar system and the AC power output of inverter (1
9 12
phase or balanced 3 phases); calculate the efficiency of DC to AC
power conversion and the efficiency of the max. output power 13
10
14

1 15

2 16

3 17

4 18

5
19

6
20
7

8
3 4
 STC
Press this button to display or conceal the SOFTWARE KEYBOARD
POWER

1. STC POWER button which be used to type in characters.

Press this button to switch the display to STC or OPC curves; AUTO

8. SCAN
AUTO SCAN button
or press it to enter POWER mode.
Auto scan I-V curve test. Press this button for 2 sec. to perform the
ENTER

2. ENTER button auto scan of intelligent test logic.

(In the FILE LIST) Press this button to open a chosen file (REC file or 9. LCD
Mod file). LCD displays measurement data and curves.

FILE SETUP
EXIT
3. FILE EXIT button 10. SETUP button

Press this button to display File List. Press it again to exit File List. Enter/Exit (parameter) SETUP menu.

4. DELETE button 11. button

(In the FILE LIST) Press this button to delete the data of a chosen file. (1) In a curve, press it to move the cursor left.

I/V/P
(2) In SETUP menu or REF MODULE function or FILE LIST, press it to
5. Irr / Tc
I/V/P Irr/Tc button
decrement value by 1 or display the file of previous page.
After AUTO-SCAN, press this button to select I-V curves or P-V curves,
12. button
or display both. When under Irradiance/Temperature (Irr Tc) Mode,
press this button to select Irradiance curves or Temperature curves. In “SETUP menu” or “REF MODULE function” or “File List”, press ▲
button to select the previous item or file.
ZERO
6. ZERO button
13. button
For Zero calibration and Timer reset. Connect two testing clips with
each other and press this button, the zero calibration of voltage and In “SETUP menu” or “REF MODULE function” or “File List”, press ▼
current will be performed. Regular zero calibration would maintain the button to select the next item or file.
accuracy of the instruments. Under POWER mode or Irr Tc mode,
press this button to reset the Timer and curve drawings. 14. button
(1) In a curve, press it to move the cursor right.
7. SOFTWARE KEYBOARD button
(2) In SETUP menu or REF MODULE function or FILE LIST, press it to

5 6
 increment value by 1 or display the file of next page.

REF
A-2 REAR PANEL
MODULE

15. REF MODULE button

Enter/Exit the editing function of solar panel parameters.

REPORT

16. REPORT button

Press this button to display Standard Test Condition (STC) report and
OPerating Condition (OPC) report, or search the Remote Solar Detector
2
again. 1

REC
17. REC button 3
(1) Press this button to start data logging. Press it again to stop data
logging.
(2) How to clear recorded data: keep pressing REC button and turn on 4
the Analyzer, then all the data recorded in the Analyzer will be
completely deleted. And the factory defaults will be restored.

18.
Irr
Tc
Irr Tc button 5

Press this button to enter or exit Irradiance/Temperature mode.

6
~η
19. POWER
DC graph/ AC graph/ Efficiency button

Press this button to display “DC power graph” or “AC power graph” or
“Efficiency”. 1. Communication window:
(1) Connecting the Analyzer with PC via USB cable.
20. Power button
(2) Or under POWER mode, connecting the Analyzer with the
Turn on/off the power of the Analyzer. communication cable of Solar 21 AC Power Clamp.
2. AC to DC adaptor input.

7 8
3. Terminal for connecting Solar 15 DC Current Probe
4. Stand A-3 TOP PANEL
5. Battery cover
6. Screw of battery cover
1 2

Note:
V+ I+ DO NOT BLOCK VENTILATION OPENINGS

When the Analyzer is under POWER mode, the PC

Application Software can not communicate with the
Analyzer. 1000V MAX 12A MAX

CAT 300V
CAT 1000V V- I-

3 4

1. V+ terminal
2. I+ terminal
3. V- terminal
4. I- terminal

9 10
 Note: Apply Thermal conductive gel on the metal part
B. Remote Solar Detector 1012 (with Thermometer)
of Auxiliary thermometer, then stick it on solar panel
(back side) to detect the temperature of solar panel.
Remote Solar Detector (RSD for short)
And Thermal conductive gel can be removed easily.

1. Power switch of RSD

1. Box for Remote Solar Detector. 2. The hole to plug in USB power cord

2. Auxiliary Thermometer.

USB power cord

11 12
IV. Operation A. Connecting Diagram

Warning: To avoid risk of electric shock and damage

to the unit, do not touch any internal components with
tools of any kind through the ventilation opening.

Warning: AC adaptor is used for lithium battery

recharging only. The power source of the Solar
System Analyzer is always the (rechargeable) lithium
battery, NOT AC adaptor.

Solar (DC) System

Warning: When using a lithium battery as the power

source, please do not plug in an AC adaptor. If users
plug in an AC adaptor during operation, power to the
analyzer will be interrupted and the data during
operation will be lost.

Note: When pressing any button, users will hear a

sound of buzzer. When keeping pressing it for more
than 2 seconds, users will hear another sound of
buzzer. This status is normal.
4-wire Testing Clips Connecting Diagram

13 14
Two Wire Measurement

With the “4-wire to 2-wire connecting cable”, users only need 2 testing clips
which must touch the metal parts of the output terminals of a solar panel.

The “4-wire to 2-wire connecting cable” can convert four wire measurement
to two wire measurement. First, plug the 4-wire testing cable into
Analyzer’s 4 terminals (black to black, red to red), and connect its other side
with “4-wire to 2-wire connecting cable”. And then connect “4-wire to 2-wire
connecting cable” with 2 testing clips (black & red).

4-wire to 2-wire Connecting Cable

Then two wire measurement will be performed by using 2 testing clips which
touch the metal parts of the output terminals of a solar panel (see below).

15 16
Four Wire Measurement (with 2 optional testing clips)
All 4 testing clips must touch the metal parts of the output terminals of a
solar panel.

Connect the Solar panel (front side) with Remote solar detector

Use Thermal conductive gel to stick Auxiliary thermometer

on the Solar panel (back side)

17 18
 Based upon above parameters, Analyzer will scan again to draw two
B. AUTO SCAN curves on LCD: the 1st one is I-V curve; the 2nd one is P-V curve.

1. Put solar panel(s) under sunlight to let the light source illuminate on 7. Users can Press or button to move the cursor along the curve
solar panel(s) uniformly. to view the values (voltage/current/power) of each point. (The values will
2. Properly connect testing clips to solar panel and Analyzer. The red clip display below the curve.)
is for positive pole and the black clip for negative pole. (refer to above 8. Users can press STC POWER button to switch the display to STC
Connecting Diagram). values/curves; press STC POWER button again to switch the display to
3. Turn on the switch of Remote Solar Detector. OPC values/curves. But if Irr shows ”-----“, or Irr ≦ 10 W/m2, STC
values/curves can not be displayed.
4. Press button to turn on Analyzer. After appr. 3 sec., the

Bluetooth connection symbol on the analyzer will change from to

which means the Bluetooth connection is successful.

AUTO

5. Press SCAN
(AUTO SCAN) button to perform Auto-scan. After the

scanning is finished, the OPC measurement result will display like

below.
6. Analyzer will automatically measure:
Voc: Voltage at open circuit.
Isc: Current at short circuit.
Pmax: Max. solar system power.
Vpm: Max. voltage at Pmax.
Ipm: Max. current at Pmax. Note:
EFF: Efficiency of solar panel. 1. If the analyzer power on is before the RSD power on, users can
FF: Fill Factor. press REPORT button to search the RSD again.
Tc: Temperature. 2. The display of STC values/curves is based on the calculation of
Irr: Irradiance. solar panel parameters. In order to get correct STC values/curves,
Rs: Series resistance. first users have to nominate a Mod file in the FILE LIST as the solar

19 20
 panel parameters.
3. After turn on the power of Analyzer, if Irr shows ”-----“ then please AUTO SCAN of Intelligent Test Logic

turn on the Analyzer again to let Irr shows normal values.

4. When the display shows STC values/curves: the values are STC This Analyzer can perform the AUTO SCAN of intelligent test logic to get a

values but the curves are OPC curves. more accurate Pmax. The Analyzer will wait till the irradiance is over 800

5. For both OPC and STC, the calculation of solar panel efficiency W/m2 , then it starts AUTO SCAN. And it will continuously AUTO SCAN 5

(EFF) is based on Irradiance = 1000 W/m2 . times, then find out the best Pmax.

6. When Irr or Tc shows ”-----“, it means the Remote Solar Detector can
not be detected or the measured irradiance/ temperature is over the 1. Put solar panel(s) under sunlight to let the light source illuminate on

spec. solar panel(s) uniformly.

7. If the display shows “OL” in OPC or STC values/curves, it means the 2. Properly connect testing clips to solar panel and Analyzer. The red clip

values of this measurement are not accurate. is for positive pole and the black clip for negative pole. (refer to above

8. If there is a “*” symbol next to Rs, it means the Rs value is from the Connecting Diagram).

irradiance calculation. If there is no symbol, it means the Rs value 3. Turn on the switch of Remote Solar Detector.

is from the calculation of loading voltage and current.

4. Press button to turn on Analyzer. After appr. 3 sec., the
9. When Isc is over 12A, AUTO SCAN can not be performed.
10. When there is a Low battery warning, AUTO SCAN can not be Bluetooth connection symbol on the analyzer will change from to
performed automatically. which means the Bluetooth connection is successful.

AUTO

5. Press SCAN
(AUTO SCAN) button for 2 sec. to perform AUTO SCAN

of intelligent test logic. After the scanning is finished, the best OPC
measurement result will be displayed.
6. If the irradiance can not be over 800 W/m2 which makes AUTO SCAN

can not be performed, users can press (DELETE) button to

perform AUTO SCAN 5 times based on the current irradiance. After

the scanning is finished, the best OPC measurement result will be
displayed.

21 22
C. REPORT

1. After AUTO SCAN finished and curves displayed, or after open a REC

REPORT

file under FILE LIST, press (REPORT) button to display test

report like below: it shows NOMINAL parameters, OPC / STC report.

But if Irr shows ”-----“, or Irr ≦ 10 W/m2, the report can not be
displayed.
2. In the report:
Delta Irrad represents the irradiance variation volume during AUTO
SCAN process. If this value is bigger, it may cause an abnormal I-V
curve.
Irr < 800 W/m2 means the irradiance is small than 800 W/m2 .
Pmax @ STC: if OK it represents the Pmax of STC meets the Pmax
spec. of solar panel parameters; if NO OK it means the Pmax of STC do
not meet the Pmax spec. of solar panel parameters.

3. Users can press button to switch the display shows STC report,

or OPC report (Nms = Nms of solar panel parameters) or OPC report

(Nms=1). Press button to switch the display in reverse order.

23 24
D. FILE LIST
FILE
EXIT
1. Press (FILE EXIT) button to display the File List as below.

2. In the File List you can see: File names, File types, File dates/times.
3. There are four file types:
”Mod” : File of Solar panel parameters.
”REC” : File of I-V curve record.
”PWR” : File of Power record.
”IRR” : File of Irradiance/Temperature record.
4. If there is a “*” symbol next to a ”Mod” file, it means this file of solar
panel parameters is the one currently used by the Analyzer.

5. Users can press or button to select a file. The chosen

file will be highlighted. Press or button to display the files of

previous page or next page.
6. Press ENTER button to open the file data. Open a ”Mod” file means
you select it as the file of solar panel parameters currently used by the
Analyzer. Open a “REC” file to display a I-V curve record. The ”PWR”
and “IRR” files can not be opened by the Analyzer, users have to read
them from the Application Software.

7. Press (DELETE) button to delete a chosen file.

※Note: When users enter the FILE LIST, the previous

AUTO-SCAN testing results will be deleted.

25 26
 Beta： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Voc.
E. REF MODULE Gamma： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Pmax.
K： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Rs.
After the parameter tests of OPerating Condition (OPC), the Analyzer can
3. Users can press button or button to select a parameter.
convert them to I-V curve and parameter display of Standard Test Condition
(STC). And then based on the parameters of solar panel to verify the solar
panel is OK or NO OK. Users can open, modify, delete the parameters of Press button or button to change the parameter values; or
solar panels. The default parameter file (DEFAULT_MOD) can not be press these 2 buttons for 2 sec. to quickly change the setting values.
modified or deleted. 4. After editing the parameters, select Save and then press ENTER button
to replace the original parameter file; or select Save As and then press

REF
ENTER button to save it as another new parameter file.
MODULE

1. Press (REF MODULE) to enter the function of editing solar panel

REF
MODULE

parameters. 5. Press (REF MODULE) button to exit REF MODULE function.

2. The parameters of Solar panels are:

Module： The name of solar panel which can be edited by
SOFTWARE KEYBOARD.
Nms： The series number of solar panels.
Pmax： Max. solar system power.
Voc： Voltage at open circuit.
Isc： Current at short circuit.
Vpm： Max. voltage at Pmax.
Ipm： Max. current at Pmax.
Area： Area of solar panel(s). (Based on this Area data and
Irradiance, the Analyzer can calculate the conversion ※Note: When users enter the REF MODULE function, the
efficiency of solar panels.) previous AUTO-SCAN testing results will be deleted.
Toll+： Positive tolerance of solar panel Pmax. Note: If users exit REF MODULE function before SAVING the
Toll-： Negative tolerance of solar panel Pmax. parameter file, the changed parameters will be restored to the
Alpha： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Isc. original defaults.

27 28
F. SOFTWARE KEYBOARD G. ZERO Calibration

Users can use SOFTWARE KEYBOARD to type in characters, numbers and Calibration of voltage and current zero would improve the accuracy of the
symbols. instrument before usage.
1. Move to the item where you want to change the characters (e.g. First connect “4-wire to 2-wire cable” with the Analyzer, then connect 2
Module). testing clips (black & red) with ““4-wire to 2-wire cable”. Connect these 2
ZERO
testing clips with each other and press button. The LCD will
2. Press button or button to move the cursor to the place where display “ZERO CAL…” message. When this message disappears, the
you want to type in a character. ZERO Calibration is completed.
Regular ZERO Calibration would maintain the accuracy of the instruments.
3. Press (SOFTWARE KEYBOARD) button then the display will be

as below.

4. In the SOFTWARE KEYBOARD display, press or or

or button to select a character, then press (SOFTWARE

KEYBOARD) button again to confirm this change.

29 30
H. Data Logging 4. Under Irr Tc mode, press REC button then the data is recorded once
every 60 minutes. Press REC button again to stop Data Logging.
Users can perform Data Logging to:
record the I-V curves of solar system;
Note:
or (under POWER mode) record the DC/AC output power, Efficiency;
1. If the Sampling Time is set to 0 (minutes), then only
or (under Irr Tc mode) record Irradiance/Temperature
1 set of I-V curve/data or 1 set of power data or 1
over a period of time (e.g. every 60 minutes).
set of Irradiance/Temperature data is recorded.
2. Users can use the application software provided
with the Analyzer to read the saved testing results.
(Please refer to the Software Manual)
3. Do not communicate with PC during data logging.

1. Set Sampling Time (e.g. 60 min.) in SETUP menu.

2. Exit SETUP function, press REC button then AUTO SCAN will be
performed and the I-V curves of solar system will be recorded. In the
above example, data is recorded once every 60 minutes. Press REC
button again to stop Data Logging.

3. Under Efficiency display of Power mode, press REC button then (in the
above example) the data is recorded once every 60 minutes. Press REC
button again to stop Data Logging.

31 32
I. Clear Recorded (File) Data and Restore Defaults J. SETUP Parameters

Users can clear the recorded data saved in the Analyzer and restore the
SETUP

factory defaults. 1. Press (SETUP) button to enter the Parameter Setting.

2. Press or buttons to select the setting item.

The procedures are:
1. Keep pressing REC button and turn on the Analyzer at the same time.
2. After turning on the Analyzer, users will be asked if they really want to Press or buttons to change the setting values. Or press
Restore Factory Settings & MEMORY FORMAT. If users choose YES, these two buttons for 2 sec. to promptly change setting values.
then all the data recorded in the Analyzer (memory) will be completely
SETUP

deleted. And the factory default settings will be restored. 3. After setting up parameters, press (SETUP) button to exit SETUP

menu.

Note:
1. After performing this CLEAR function, all the
recorded data in Analyzer (memory) will be deleted
completely and can not be restored. If it is necessary
to keep the testing data, please use the Application
Software to download/save them before deleting them
from the Analyzer. (refer to the Software Manual)

2. After the factory defaults are restored, the

parameters (like Irr. Correction, Tc Offset, …) in SETUP
will be restored to the defaults set at factory. Hence,
(1) CURRENT DATE&TIME：the Date and Time of the Analyzer will
users will have to set the parameters in SETUP again.
be set up (except the Second can not be set).
(2) Sampling Time of Datalogging：can be set up from 0 to 99
minutes.

33 34
(3) Irr Correction：the factory default of Irr Correction is 0.
However, after recalibration if users find there is a measurement K. THERMOMETER Setup
deviation on the Irradiance, users can adjust this Irr Correction
parameter in order to measure the correct irradiance. Please REF
MODULE

note: after the factory defaults are restored, the Irr Correction 1. Keep pressing (REF MODULE) button (do not release it) and

value will be restored to 0. turn on the power of Analyzer.

(4) Tc Offset：the factory default of Tc Offset is 0. However, after 2. After the power is on, users will be asked to select AUTO or AUX
recalibration if users find there is a measurement deviation on the for ”Cell Temperature”. Choosing AUTO means the Analyzer will
Temperature, users can adjust this Tc Offset parameter in order automatically detect the temperature of solar panel. Choosing AUX
to measure the correct temperature. Please note: after the means the Analyzer will detect the temperature of solar panel through
factory defaults are restored, the Tc Offset value will be restored the auxiliary thermometer of Remote Solar Detector.
to 0.
(5) Comment：Users can use the SOFTWARE KEYBOARD to write
Note:
down their comments here. Max. 128 characters can be typed
In order to get more accurate temperature of solar
in. When data logging (REC) I-V curves of solar system, the
panel, users are suggested to select AUTO. When
comment will be recorded as well.
users select AUTO, they have to make sure the Voc
(6) AUX in the SETUP menu means the auxiliary thermometer
parameter of REF MODULE is correct.
(attached to Remote Solar Detector) is selected for Cell
Temperature. V5.03 means the firmware version of the Analyzer.
RSD bat means the remaining battery power of the Remote Solar
Detector.

35 36
 The connection of Solar 21 (AC Power Clamp), Analyzer and Solar 15 (DC
L. POWER Mode Current Probe) are as below:

Solar System with Panels and Inverter

The POWER mode is used to continuously measure/monitor/record the DC

power output of solar system and the AC power output of Inverter (1 phase
or balanced 3 phases); calculate the efficiency of DC to AC power
conversion, the efficiency of the max. output power, DC/AC output power,
and Watt/hour, etc.

Please connect all the cables according to the drawing of “Solar System
with Panels and Inverter＂. Solar 15 (DC Current Probe) turned to 12A
range; Solar 21 (AC Power Clamp) turned to W-mA or W-A range; the sliding
switch on the side turned to a proper frequency.

Press the 3-Phase button of Solar 21 (AC Power Clam) to switch to 1P2W
or 3P3W.

37 38
1. Turn on the switch of Remote Solar Detector. Isc： Current at short circuit
Pmax： Max. solar system power
2. Press button to turn on the Analyzer. After appr. 3 sec., the
Vpm： Max. voltage at Pmax
Bluetooth connection symbol on the analyzer will change from to Ipm： Max. current at Pmax
which means the Bluetooth connection is successful. Irr： The measured Irradiance

STC
Tc： The measured Temperature
POWER

3. Press (STC POWER) button to enter the Efficiency display of Alpha： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Isc.
POWER mode as below. Beta： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Voc.
Gamma： Temperature coefficient of solar panel Pmax.
Irh： Watt/ hour of Irradiance
SPmh： Watt/ hour at Pmax

DC Input of Inverter:
P： Power
V： Voltage
I： Current
EFF(Pmax)： Efficiency, (DC Power / Pmax)x100
EFF ： Average Efficiency, (Ph(DC)/SPmh)x100
On the top left of the display, “RECORD00001” means the current output P： Average Power
calculation of solar panels are based on: I-V curve record file ET： Duration (hour: min.: sec.). Users can press ZERO button
“RECORD00001” and the measured irradiance/temperature. Every sec. to reset this value.
the calculation and display is updated once. Hence users must perform Ph： Watt/ hour
AUTO SCAN first, press REC button to record a “REC” file, select this “REC”
file in FILE LIST, then press ENTER button to finish the nomination. AC Output of Inverter:
P： Power
Parameters from left to right on the display are described on below: V： Voltage
Output of solar panels: I： Current
Voc： Voltage at open circuit PF： Power Factor

39 40
EFF(DC-AC)： Efficiency, (P(AC)/P(DC))x100
EFF ： Average Efficiency, (Ph(AC)/Ph(DC))x100
P： Average Power
PF ： Average Power Factor
Ph： Watt/ hour

~η
4. Press POWER
button to switch the display to DC power curve as below.

~η
Press POWER
button again to switch the display to AC power curve as

below.

I/V/P
Users can press Irr / Tc
(I/V/P Irr/Tc) button to switch the display to

Current/Voltage/Power curves. On the left bottom it shows the starting

date/time of the curve. Users can press ZERO button to Reset (i.e. redraw)

the curve. Press or button to move the cursor. On the top left it
shows the Time Interval of the cursor position, and the min./max. values of
the Time Interval. On the right bottom it shows Watt/ hour.

41 42
Note:
M. Irradiance/Temperature (Irr Tc) Mode
1. Under POWER mode if the display shows “Clamp
X”, it means the Analyzer can not detect Solar 15 or
The Irradiance/Temperature (Irr Tc) mode is to continuously measure,
Solar 21, please check the connection or replace
monitor, record the irradiance, temperature, SD (sunshine duration), insol.
batteries.
(insolation) of solar panels.
2. Solar 15 ”can be turned to 12A range only”, Solar
21 ”can be turned to W-mA or W-A range only”, or
1. Turn on the switch of Remote Solar Detector.
the Analyzer can not measure correctly.
2. Press button to turn on the analyzer. After appr. 3 sec., the

Bluetooth connection symbol on the analyzer will change from to

which means the Bluetooth connection is successful.

Irr

3. Press Tc
(Irr Tc) button to enter the Irradiance/Temperature mode

(the display like below).

In the display of Irradiance/Temperature mode, the parameters are:

SD： sunshine duration

43 44
Insol.： insolation
( Tc )： Average temperature value of the latest time period On the left bottom of the display shows the starting date/time of the curves.
( Ir )： Average irradiance value of the latest time period
RSD bat： Remaining battery power of RSD Users can press ZERO button to Reset (i.e. redraw) the curves. Press
Tc ： Average temperature value since pressing ZERO button
until now or button to move the cursor. On the top left of the display shows the
Irr ： Average irradiance value since pressing ZERO button Time Interval of the cursor position, and the min./max. values of the Time
until now Interval. On the right bottom it shows the Watt/hour of Irradiance.
Tc： Real-time Temperature I/V/P
4. Press Irr / Tc
(I/V/P Irr/Tc) button to select displaying Irradiance curves
Irr： Real-time Irradiance
or Temperature curves.
Sunshine duration (SD) means the time period when Irradiance ≧ 120 Irr

5. Press Tc
(Irr Tc) button to exit Irr Tc mode.
W/m2 . This value (120 W/m2 ) can be changed via the Threshold Value of
Sunshine Duration in the software. After the factory defaults are restored,
Note:
120 W/m2 will be restored.
1. When the analyzer fails to detect the RSD, users
can not enter Irradiance/Temperature mode.
The calculation formula of insolation (Insol.) is:
2. Under Irr Tc mode: if the connection of RSD fails,
( SD / (the time period when Irradiance > 5 W/m2) ) x 100
the bottom display will show the starting time of the
This value (5 W/m2 ) can be changed via the Threshold Value of Sunshine in
connection fail (in reverse type); if the RSD
the software. After the factory defaults are restored, 5 W/m2 will be
connection is successful again, the
restored.
Irradiance/Temperature curves will continue to
display, but the Time Interval of the cursor position
The time periods of ( Tc ) and ( Ir ) can be set up in the parameter SETUP
on the top left of the display will be meaningless.
function by setting up Sampling Time of Datalogging. For example, if the
Sampling Time of Datalogging is set up to 2 min.: ( Tc ) and ( Ir ) will be the
average temperature/irradiance values of the latest 2 min.; and the average
values will be re-calculated every 2 min. If the Sampling Time of
Datalogging is set up to 0 min.: then there won’t be any averages.

45 46
V. Application Notes B. Identify Requirements of Solar Power System

A. Quality Control at Production Line, Warehouse, or Site of

Installation.

Manufacturers of solar panels can test the characteristics for quality control
purpose at the production line. Due to the portability advantage of the unit,
quality inspectors can randomly pick samples of solar panels and test them
at the warehouse to assure quality before shipment.

Installation engineers can randomly test samples of solar panels at site to

verify the quality of solar panels used at site of installation.

The unit can measure actual max. power (Pmax), voltage (Vpm) and current
(Ipm) at max. power. Instead of the rated max. power, system designers
need to be aware of the actual solar power from solar panels under actual
operating conditions. So designers can actually know how many pieces of
solar panels are required to generate specific power.

The voltage and current under actual operating conditions (in the morning, at
noon, and in the afternoon) are required for system designers to design the
optimal charging system, so most of the solar power can be absorbed and
stored in the battery.

Users can test the characteristics of solar panels at different time of each
day and store the data. Then the designers can know if the solar system
can generate appropriate power at any time.

47 48
C. Maintenance of Solar Panels Abnormal I-V Curve
(Defected cells scattered over the solar panel)
Normal I-V Curve

Maintenance engineers can store the characteristics data of solar panels in

Abnormal I-V Curve the beginning. And compare the characteristics data in weekly, monthly or
(Cells at the corner of solar panel are defected) yearly maintenances. If the characteristics of any solar panels are different
from the previous data, maintenance engineers can further identify the
problems of solar panels.

For example, if any cells of solar panels are damaged, the I-V curve would
be very different from a typical curve. If the solar panels are covers by a lot
of dust, the I-V curve or the max. power would be much lower than
previously stored data. Once defected panels are found, maintenance
engineers can replace them with new panels.

49 50
D. Verify the Best Installation Angles of Solar Panels VI. Specifications

Engineers can collect data of the installation angles at different dates and A. Electrical Specifications
time by using the unit at site of installation. The data can be used as a A1. Solar System Analyzer
reference to design the automated angle adjustment system. Or the data (23℃±5℃, Irradiance ≥ 800 W/m2, Four-wire measurement, the Max.
can be used to select an optimal angle for a fixed angle installation. power limit is 12000W)

DC Voltage Measurement
Range Resolution Accuracy
1 ~ 1000 V 0.01 V / 0.1 V / 1 V ± 1 % ± (1 % of Voc ± 0.1 V)
Voc: open circuit voltage of solar cell or module.

If users use testing clips to measure voltage only, they must make V+ clip
connect with I+ clip; V- clip connect with I- clip. Thus, 4-wire measurement
is converted to 2-wire measurement.

DC Current Measurement
Range Resolution Accuracy
0.1 ~ 12 A 1 mA / 10mA ± 1 % ± (1 % of Isc ± 9 mA)
Isc: short circuit current of solar cell or module.

Circuit resistance is compensated in the AUTO SCAN.

Isc is the current of solar panel’s power cable measured at zero circuit
resistance.

51 52
DC Current Simulation A3. AC Power Clamp (Solar 21) (23℃±5℃)
Range Resolution Accuracy
AC Watt (50 or 60 Hz, PF 0.6 to 1. CT = 1, Voltage is greater than AC
0.1 ~ 12 A 1 mA / 10 mA ± 1 % ± 9 mA 4V, Current is greater than AC 1mA for mA range, and Current is greater
If current is greater than 12A, testing can not be performed. than AC 0.04A for A range. Spec. applies to continuous waveforms.)
Maximum power limit is 12000W. If the power exceeds 12000W, then the
scanning will be stopped. Range (0 to 30A) Resolution Accuracy of Readings
1, 2

The min. current for Auto Scan is 100mA.

0.050 – 9.999 W 0.001W ±2% ± 0.025W
10.00 – 99.99 W 0.01W ±2% ± 0.25W
Irradiance Measurement
100.0 – 999.9 W 0.1W ±2% ± 2.5W
Range Resolution Accuracy
1.000 – 9.999 KW 0.001 KW ±2% ± 0.025KW
0 ~ 2000 W/m2 1 W/m2 ± 3 % ± 20 dgts
10.00 – 99.99 KW 0.01 KW ±2% ± 0.25KW
100.0 – 999.9 KW 0.1 KW ±2% ± 2.5KW
Temperature Measurement
1000 – 9999 KW 1 KW ±2% ± 25KW
Range Resolution Accuracy 1
For CT ≠1, the accuracy in percentage is the same (±2%). But the
-22 ~ 85 ℃ 0.1 ℃ ±1%±1℃
additional wattage should be multiplied by the CT ratio.
For example, ±0.025W becomes ±0.025W * CT ratio
2
If Auto Hz is selected, the AC voltage must be greater than 50V, and
A2. DC Current Probe (Solar 15) (23℃±5℃)
add 2° phase angle error to the accuracy.
Range Resolution Accuracy
DC 12A 1 mA / 10 mA ±2.0%±30mA 3, 4
Range (30 ~ 50A) Resolution Accuracy
0.050 – 9.999 W 0.001W ±2% of VA ± 5dgts
10.00 – 99.99 W 0.01W ±2% of VA ± 5dgts
100.0 – 999.9 W 0.1W ±2% of VA ± 5dgts
1.000 – 9.999 KW 0.001 KW ±2% of VA ± 5dgts
10.00 – 99.99 KW 0.01 KW ±2% of VA± 5dgts
100.0 – 999.9 KW 0.1 KW ±2%of VA ± 5dgts
1000 – 9999 KW 1 KW ±2% of VA ± 5dgts

53 54
3
For CT ≠1, the accuracy in percentage is the same (±2%). But the
additional digits should be multiplied by the CT ratio. B. General Specifications
For example, ±5 digits becomes ±5 digits * CT ratio B1. Solar System Analyzer
4
If Auto Hz is selected, the AC voltage must be greater than 50V. Battery Type: Rechargeable Lithium Battery (3400mAh)
Battery Life: 400 times of linear scan (1000V ~ 1V,
Range of CT Ratio: 1 to 250 0.1A ~ 12A), 8 hours for standby mode.
Memory Size: 512K Bytes
H.P. (Horse Power): 1 H.P. = 746 W 3980 Mod files
320 REC files
AC Apparent Power (VA, from 0.000VA to 9999 KVA)
3980 PWR files
VA = V r.m.s. x A r.m.s
3980 IRR files

AC Reactive Power (VAR, from 0.000 VAR to 9999 KVAR) AC Adaptor: AC 100 ~ 240V input
2 2
VAR = √(VA – W ) DC 15V / 1~3A output
Dimension: 257(L) x 155(W) x 57(H) mm

AC Active Energy (mWH, WH, or KWH, from 0 mWH to 999,999 KWH) Weight: 1525g / 53.7 oz (Batteries included)

WH = W * Time (in hours) Operation Environment: 5℃ ~ 50℃, 85% RH

Temperature 0.1% of full scale / ℃
Power Factor Coefficient: (＜18℃ or ＞28℃)
(PF, ACV > 4V, AC mA > 1mA, AC A > 0.04A, Watt > 50 digits) Storage Environment: -20℃ ~ 60℃, 75% RH
Range Resolution Accuracy Accessories: Remote Solar Detector (battery type:
0.000 – 1.000 0.001 ±0.04 rechargeable lithium battery, 1000mAh)
with Thermometer,
USB power cord, User manual,
AC adaptor, Optical USB cable,
Rechargeable lithium battery (3400mAh),
Software CD, Software manual,
Carrying bag, Thermal conductive gel,
Testing clips (1 black & 1 red),

55 56
 4-wire to 2-wire connecting cable,
4-wire testing cable B3. AC Power Clamp (Solar 21)
Option: Solar 15: DC current probe
Solar 21: AC power clamp (Indoor Use)
Testing clips (1 black & 1 red) Conductor Size: 30mm (approx.)
Battery Type: two 1.5V SUM-3 AA
Display: 4+2+2 digits LCD

B2. DC Current Probe (Solar 15) Range Selection: Auto

Overload Indication: OL
(Indoor Use) Power Consumption: 10mA (approx.)
Conductor Size: 23mm max. (approx.) Lower Battery Indication:
Battery Type: two 1.5V SUM-3 AA Display Update Time: 2 times / sec.
Range Selection: Manual No. of Samples per period: 512 (V or A)
Power Consumption: 10mA (approx.) 256 (W)
Low Battery Indication: Red LED Temperature Coefficient (＜18℃ or ＞28℃):
Operation Temperature: -10°C to 50°C 0.15 x (Specified Accuracy) / ℃
Operation Humidity: ＜85% RH Operation Temperature: -10°C to 50°C
Storage Temperature: -20°C to 60°C Operation Humidity: ＜85% RH
Storage Humidity: ＜75% RH Altitude: up to 2000M
Altitude: up to 2000M Storage Temperature: -20°C to 60°C
Dimension: 183mm(L) x 61.3mm(W) x 35.6mm (H) Storage Humidity: ＜75% RH
7.2" (L) x 2.5" (W) x 1.4" (H) Dimension: 210mm(L) x 62mm(W) x 35.6mm(H)
Weight: 190g (battery included) 8.3" (L) x 2.5" (W) x 1.4" (H)
Accessory: Carrying bag x 1 Weight: 200g (battery included)
Manual x 1 Accessory: Test leads, Carrying bag, Manual,
1.5V AA battery x 2 1.5V AA battery x 2
Option: Alligator clips

57 58
VII. Battery Replacement (Recharging) Please follow below steps to charge the lithium battery:
1. Connect the AC Adaptor with the Analyzer.

If the lithium battery can not be charged, users should always purchase a 2. The battery can be charged without turning on the Analyzer.

new lithium battery from the distributor or importer. The charging circuit 3. The recharging takes 10 hours. After recharging, remove the AC

built-in is designed only for the lithium battery. Adaptor.

4. Turn on the Analyzer, and the LCD displays “Battery: 100%”.

The lithium battery of the analyzer is always sold with the plastic battery
cover. Do not purchase a lithium battery from a source which is not
approved by the manufacturer. Remote Solar Detector (RSD)

Non-approved lithium battery could cause damage to the instrument or

hazard to the users.

Analyzer

USB power cord

Steps of Battery Replacement:

1. Unscrew and remove the lithium battery (with plastic battery cover). Steps of Battery Replacement:

2. Put in a new rechargeable lithium battery (with plastic battery cover). 1. Unscrew and remove the lithium battery of RSD.

3. Screw the battery cover. 2. Put in a new rechargeable lithium battery.

3. Screw the rear cover.

59 60
Please follow below steps to charge the lithium battery: VIII. Fuse Replacement
1. Connect the USB power cord with the RSD and a PC USB port.
2. The battery can be charged without turning on the Remote Solar Detector. When the voltage can not be measured (Vnow = 0V) after properly
3. The recharging takes 4 hours. After recharging, disconnect the USB connecting the Analyzer and solar panel, please check the fuse. If the fuse
power cord. is damaged (burned), please replace a new fuse by following the
4. Turn on the Remote Solar Detector. procedures:
5. Turn on the Analyzer. After Bluetooth is successfully connected, enter 1. Turn off the Analyzer and remove all the connecting wires and power
the parameter setup (SETUP) function, and the LCD displays “RSD bat: sources.
100%”. 2. Unscrew the (2pcs.) screws of the top panel. Remove the top panel.
3. Remove the damaged (burned) fuse.
4. Put in a new fuse of the same specifications (5A / 250V).
5. Restore the top panel and screw the (2pcs.) screws of the top panel.

Fuse

61 62
IX. Maintenance & Cleaning

1. Servicing not covered in this manual should only be performed by

qualified personnel. Repairs should only be performed by qualified
personnel.
2. Periodically wipe the case and cable with a damp cloth and detergent; do
not use abrasives or solvents.
3. Please remove the batteries if users won’t use the solar analyzer and
optional clamps for a long time.

Address of Agent, Distributor, Importer, or Manufacturer

63