The best way i have found to align a solar cell towards the sun it to mount a small stick perpendicular to the solar cell s surface then adjust the cell to minimize the stick s shadow.
How to measure temperature of solar panel.
Beyond using a good light source you need to align the solar cell toward it properly to get optimal power.
One method of monitoring solar panel temperature is to use a flat surface temperature sensor like the we710 to take measurements.
To begin measure solar panel amperage.
This refers to the temperature of the solar cell itself not the temperature of the surrounding.
The temperature coefficient of pmax is the percentage of energy a solar panel loses for every degree celsius that the panel exceeds the stc temperature of 25 c.
To determine the operating efficiency as opposed to the ideal efficiency of your solar panels subtract the temperature of your solar panel from the stc temperature of 25 c then multiply that figure by the temperature coefficient of pmax.
Solar panel efficiency calculation.
The rated power as generally indicated on the module s label is measured at 25 degrees celsius and with any temperature increase above 25 c you have to take into account power losses of 1 for every 2 c increase.
You will need a solar panel tester known as an amp meter.
This refers to the amount of light energy received by a unit surface at a given time.
Most installed solar modules in sunny countries easily reach higher temperatures than 25 c.
Solar cell temperature at 25 c.
To get an accurate measurement you will need to ensure that your panel is in full sunlight when you test.
Air mass at 1 5.
To measure the amp output of your solar panel you will need to attach the meter to the positive and negative.