


Precisely determining the output data of photovoltaic components is a key task both in research and development as well as production. The CalLab PV Cells provides accurate measurements of all solar cell types in line with international standards.
We are also able to draw on many years of experience in the characterization of III-V multi-junction solar cells, and have a range of different test facilities.
Spectral response of multi-junction photovoltaic cells
Measuring the spectral response or external quantum efficiency of multi-junction solar cells is carried out on our grating monochromator test stand, which has been upgraded specifically for measuring multi-junction photovoltaic cells. The addition of versatile bias illumination techniques makes it possible to determine the spectral response of solar cells with up to six sub-cells.
Calibrated I-V curve measurement
We measure the current-voltage characteristics of multi-junction solar cells under standard test conditions (e.g. AM0 for space and AM1.5D for concentrator applications) using our adjustable triple source solar simulator. This simulator enables us to set an infinite variety of spectral conditions. We use spectrometric characterization to quantify how multi-junction solar cells behave when the incident spectrum is altered.
In addition, we are developing a new solar simulator comprising six independent light sources to provide calibrated measurements of solar cells with up to six p-n junctions.
We also have a pulsed solar simulator for measuring concentrator solar cells. This allows us to determine the I-V curve of concentrator solar cells under varying concentrations of light (up to concentration factors of over 5000).
Further measurements and services:
Selected publications on this topic (Fraunhofer-Publica database)