Solar energy applications need irradiance data that is quick to acquire and easy to connect. This silicon pyranometer measures global irradiance on a flat surface, combining direct solar irradiance and diffuse irradiance. It is suitable for natural sunlight measurement, including solar thermal and photovoltaic monitoring.
The silicon photodiode sensor provides a 0…2000 W/m2 measuring range with a typical sensitivity of 20 µV/Wm-2 and a response time below 0.5 s. Its special geometry and diffuser create a 180° viewing angle according to the cosine law, helping the sensor capture irradiance across the surface rather than only direct light.
Installation is simple for outdoor monitoring. The pyranometer requires no power supply, provides passive mV output through a 5 m fixed cable with open wires and is available with or without a base with bubble level. An IP 67 anodized aluminum housing supports long-term field use when the diffuser is kept clean.
The sensor uses a silicon photodiode suited to natural sunlight measurement.
The special geometry and diffuser provide a 180° viewing angle according to the cosine law.
The pyranometer measures over a 400…1100 nm spectral range and is calibrated for A.M. 1.5 light.
Photocurrent from the photodiode is converted into a voltage through an internal shunt resistor.
A 5 m fixed cable with open wires provides the passive output connection.
Factory calibration is performed by comparison with a class B reference pyranometer using a solar simulator.
