Source Measure Unit - MPPT Tracker
Maximize Solar Cell Research with the Source Measure Units: Precision, Power and Performance in a User-Friendly Package
SMU with Exceptional Flexibility and Accuracy
The infinityPV Source Measure Units offer cutting edge technology for precise solar cell characterization and research, redefining precision and efficiency in testing. With multiple input channels, customizable power options, and intuitive software, they provide unparalleled flexibility for optimizing solar cell devices and modules.
The Source Measure Units offer full maximum power point tracking (MPPT) on all channels, coupled with 4-quadrant operation and 16-bit resolution across multiple ranges, ensuring high accuracy and versatility. Beyond these core features, the Source Measure Unit is equipped with additional channels allowing for easy integration of a temperature/relative humidity probe as well as a 5-channel general purpose datalogger. The datalogger supports a wide range of inputs (4-20 mA, 0-1 V, 0-5 V, 0-10 V to Pt100) and outputs (5 V, 12 V, and 24 V), enabling comprehensive data collection and user formatting.
Unmatched Flexibility
Experience unmatched flexibility with the Source Measure Units, enabling independent maximum power point tracking for each channel in asynchronous mode. Moreover, our synchronous mode permits simultaneous scanning of all channels at the same voltage, facilitating the study of multijunction devices requiring synchronized recording. Select from a range of options to meet your specific requirements, including a low-power variant (200 mW/channel, 2-point measurements) and a high-power variant (5,000 mW/channel, 2/4-point measurements). Both models feature a user-friendly 5-inch touch display, providing real-time insights from the temperature/humidity probe and datalogger, alongside recent data records.
MPPT Tracker
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) ensures that the solar cell operates at its maximum power point (MPP). In this mode, the solar cell functions under realistic conditions where power is actively extracted, unlike when the cell is in an open circuit or short circuit state. The infinityPV IV and Lifetime Software allows the operator to set a minimum and maximum voltage (searching range) for a specific channel and activate Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT tracker mode). The SMU then initiate a perturbance and observance (P&O) MPPT algorithm for that channel, adjusting the channel's output by a few millivolts every second and measuring the current at each new point. By comparing the power at the new point with the power at the previous point, the algorithm determines the direction of the next voltage adjustment, ensuring optimal performance.
Key Features
Used by Top-Scientists in Numerous Peer-Reviewed Articles
Banana Plugs (4 mm) for Robust and Versatile Connection to Solar Cells
Fully Independent Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) on All Channels
Datalogger That Accepts a Large Range of Probes (Resistive, Voltage, Current, Source V / Measure I, Source I / Measure V, Pt100)
Operates From 110-240 VAC
CE Certified - CSA/UL Compliant
5-inch Touch Screen
Compatible With All infinityPV Solar Simulators
Free Software Available Online that simplifies data logging while recording IV or MPP data
Technical Specifications
A High Power System with 4 Channels
5,000 mW/Channel, 2/4-Point Measurements
Operation Range: -17.5V to +17.5V / 1000mA
Size: 405 mm x 153 mm x 95 mm (WxDxH)
16-bit Resolution
A Low Power System with 8 Channels
200 mW/Channel, 2-point Measurements
Operation Range: -5V to +5V / 40 mA
Size: 350 mm x 133 mm x 95 mm (WxDxH)
Types of Source Measure Units
The Low Power 8 Channel Source Measure Unit with MPPT is specifically tailored for laboratory PV devices and compact modules, supporting voltages of up to 5 V and currents of up to 40 mA, with a maximum of 200 mW per channel.
The High Power 4 Channel Source Measure Unit with MPPT is versatile, catering to both small laboratory PV devices and larger PV modules with higher power levels, offering a maximum of 5000 mW per channel.
Accessories
Optional tools comprising a Temperature and Relative Humidity Probe for logging environmental data over time and the CalCell reference device to ensure precise calibration of your solar simulator. Completing the package is a cable kit comprising high-quality cables for seamless connectivity and setup of your Source Measure Unit system. With these accessories, you can achieve consistent and reliable results in your solar cell research.
Compact solar simulator (390–700 nm) with six tunable LEDs, Class A uniformity, and excellent temporal stability. Ideal for small to medium solar cells and controlled illumination experiments.
A calibrated photodiode and filter to calibrate light intensity precisely at your sample’s position. Unlike internal reference diodes, the CalCell accounts for factors like sample geometry, fixture, and position, ensuring confidence in your experimental results.
A temperature and relative humidity probe that logs temperature and relative humidity data over time, providing valuable environmental insights.
Peer-Reviewed Studies Featuring the Source Measure Unit
Source Measure Unit Selection Guide
The Low Power 8 Channel Source Measure Unit is specifically tailored for laboratory PV devices and small modules, supporting voltages of up to 4 V and currents of up to 40 mA per channel (with a maximum power of 160 mW per channel).
The High Power 4 Channel Source Measure Unit is versatile, catering to both small laboratory PV devices and larger PV modules operating at higher power levels (up to 5000 mW per channel).
| 4 Channel MPPT SMU | 8 Channel MPPT SMU | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 4 | 8 |
| Active Load for MPPT | Integrated | Integrated |
| Voltage Range [V] | +/- 17.5 | +/- 5 |
| Current Range [mA] | +/- 1000 | +/- 40 |
| Maximum Power pr. Channel [mW] | 5000 | 200 |
| IV Scan In | Full 4-Quadrant Operation | Full 4-Quadrant Operation |
| Resolution* | 16 bit | 16 bit |
| Source/Sink Limit | 1000 mA | 40 mA |
| Size (WxDxH) | 405 mm x 153 mm x 95 mm | 350 mm x 133 mm x 95 mm |
| Weather Channels | Temp. and Rh | Temp. and Rh |
| Datalogger | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible With ISOS Testing Laboratory | Yes | Yes |
| Touch Screen | Yes | Yes |
| PC Control | Yes | Yes |
| Software | IV Characterization and Lifetime Measurement With MPPT Option | IV Characterization and Lifetime Measurement With MPPT Option |
*Resolution can differ among measured ranges and variables
Precision Sunlight In Your Lab
The ISOSun Solar Simulators delivers highly controlled, laboratory-grade sunlight for accurate indoor testing of solar cells and materials. Designed for stability, uniform illumination, and tunable spectra, ISOSun systems allow researchers and engineers to replicate real-world solar conditions with exceptional precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
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A Source Measure Unit (SMU) is an electronic device that combines the functionalities of a precision power supply, digital multimeter, and electronic load into a single instrument. SMUs can source and measure voltage or current simultaneously with high precision, making them essential tools in testing and characterization of semiconductors, sensors, batteries, and other electronic components. They offer fine control over sourcing parameters while providing accurate, high-speed measurements, which is crucial in applications such as IV curve tracing, leakage current testing, and resistance measurements.
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A Source Measure Unit works by supplying a voltage or current to a device under test (DUT) and simultaneously measuring the response, such as current flow or voltage drop, with high precision. The SMU can operate in various modes, including constant voltage, constant current, and sweep modes, allowing for comprehensive testing and analysis. The integrated feedback control loop in SMUs ensures accurate and stable output, even when testing components with highly variable resistance, making them highly reliable for sensitive electronic measurements.
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The infinityPV Source Measure Units are available with either 4 or 8 channels. Essentially, this configuration offers the functionality of 4 or 8 individual Source Measure Units integrated into a single compact system. Such design enables simultaneous characterization of multiple devices or modules under identical test conditions. Additionally, it facilitates conducting lifetime experiments on multiple devices concurrently, while still maintaining available channels for running IV curves on other devices.
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Yes. The channels can be set up and handled individually or as a group with identical test parameters for chosen channels.
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The High Power 4 Channel Source Measure Unit offers 5,000 mW per channel with 2/4-point measurements. Its operation range extends from -17.5V to +17.5V and 1000mA.
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The Low Power 8 Channel Source Measure Unit provides 200 mW per channel with 2-point measurements. Its operation range is from -5V to +5V and 40mA.
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Both the 4 and 8-channel Source Measure Units can source and sink power in all four quadrants, allowing for comprehensive testing across various operating conditions.
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The included software enables easy and fast setup of experiments for all the different channels in the Source Measure Unit - individually or as a group with identical test parameters. Download and run the software in demo mode to get firsthand experience with the program. Download the software here: IV and Lifetime Software.
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The data output from your characterization and lifetime studies is saved in text documents that allow for simple transfer to any data processing software.
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Yes, you can use the Source Measure Unit together with any light source – whether an artificial sun or natural sunlight.
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Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) is a technique used to optimize the power output of a solar panel or other renewable energy sources. By continuously adjusting the electrical operating point of the panel, MPPT ensures that it operates at the maximum power point, maximizing energy efficiency and improving overall performance. Learn more about Maximum Power Point Tracking here.