Keithley Interactive SourceMeter 2450 - Measuring I-V Characteristics of Solar Cells

In this section:
Introduction .............................................................................. 9-1
Equipment required .................................................................. 9-1
Set up remote communications ................................................ 9-2
Device connections .................................................................. 9-2
Solar cell characterization ........................................................ 9-4
Introduction
This example application demonstrates how to use the Model 2450 to measure the I-V characteristics
of a solar cell.
From the I-V characteristics measured by the Model 2450, you can determine important parameters
about the solar cell, including:
• Maximum current (I
max
) and voltage (V
max
)
• Maximum power (P
max
)
• Open circuit voltage (V
oc
)
• Short-circuit current (I
sc
)
Because the Model 2450 has four-quadrant source capability, it can sink up to 1 A of cell current as a
function of the applied voltage.
Equipment required
• One Model 2450
• If you are using the front-panel connectors, four insulated banana cables (one Keithley
Instruments Model 8608 Model 8608 High-Performance Clip Lead Set is provided with the Model
2450; you will need another set)
• If you are using the rear-panel connections, four triaxial cables
• One solar cell
Section 9
Measuring I-V characteristics of solar cells