Ocean Optics has unveiled optical-sensing systems and components addressing the photovoltaic solar cell market needs - from characterisation of the thin films comprising such cells to measurement of the spectral output of solar simulators.

The company's line of low-cost, small-footprint modular spectrometers and accessories can be configured for millions of different UV-Vis-NIR applications. In particular, users can mix and match spectrometers and accessories to monitor photovoltaic thin films used in the manufacture and assembly of solar panels and to measure the spectral output of both the sun and radiant sources such as solar simulators.

For solar cell production, Ocean Optics spectrometers can be configured for thin film thickness measurement and end-point detection - important quality control parameters that, if managed well, can help manufacturers reduce waste, eliminate off-specification product and increase yield.

Ocean Optics spectrometers, including the company's flagship USB4000-series spectrometers and the new Jaz modular sensing suite, are also useful for monitoring the absolute and relative spectral irradiance of both the sun and artificial sunlight sources such as solar simulators. With the former, measurement of solar characteristics - the sun's spectral output at various wavelengths and under varying conditions - can help solar system installers "tune" (or position) photovoltaic panels most effectively. With solar simulators, the value is in monitoring how reliably the simulators mimic the sun's light in various environments.

Fully integrated Ocean Optics spectrometer systems for most systems designed to measure photovoltaic thin films or the spectral output of solar simulators are available under $10,000 USD. Applications Scientists are available for consultation on the optimum setup for each application.