Atonometrics RC22 PV Reference Cell Optimized for bifacial PV, ultra compact, dual calibration

Highlights:

• RC22 is the first PV reference cell specifically optimized for both bifacial and monofacial PV systems.
• The ultra compact design allows easy mounting anywhere, including on the rear side of your bifacial array.
• Wide-dynamic range, ultra-low zero offset, and dual calibration at both 1000 W/m2 (STC) and 135 W/m2 (BSTC) provide accurate measurements over the full range of irradiances seen by bifacial systems.
• The RC22’s unique glass-to-edge surface design eliminates excess soiling versus conventional reference cells.
• Integrated features support multiple mounting configurations.

Outputs:

• Irradiance
• Cell short-circuit current
• Cell temperature

Applications:

• Measure high-accuracy solar irradiance for both monofacial and bifacial PV systems
• Characterize irradiance uniformity on the rear side of bifacial arrays
• Collect prospecting data at pre-construction sites

Need more information? See the following links:

• Data Sheet
• User Guide
• Mounting Solutions
• Additional Resources

Optimized for Bifacial PV Arrays

• Size, mounting, electronics, & calibration specifically optimized for both monofacial and bifacial PV

Compact Size, Mounts Anywhere

• Compact size – only 65 mm

• Multiple integrated mounting features

• Mounts conveniently on bifacial rear side

Glass to Edge, No Excess Soiling

• Unique glass to edge feature allows water roll-off, eliminating excess soiling vs. conventional cells

Robust Mechanical Construction

• IP67 anodized aluminum enclosure

Accurate at Low and High Irradiance

• Accurate measurements on PV front or rear

• Calibrated at both 150 W2/m and 1000 W2/m

• Wide dynamic range measurement electronics

Digital Smart Sensor

• Digital communication via Modbus over RS485

• Internally calibrated measurements: no need to manage calibration constants in loggers or SCADA

Connectorized for Easy Installation

• Industry-standard M12 5-pin circular connector

• Easy changeout for recalibration

• Compatible cables with secure over-molded connectors available in multiple lengths

Eliminates excess soilingwith glass-to-edge featureEasy mounting on PV front and rear using integrated mounting featuresOnly 2.6” (65 mm)Bifacial ready:Wide dynamic range and cell calibration at 150 & 1000 W/m2Smallest in the industry

Specifications

Main Data

• Model name: RC22 Series
• Measurement range: 0 to 1500 W/m2
• Resolution: 0.1 W/m2
• Operating temperature: -40 to 80 °C
• Input power: 10-30 VDC
• Current consumption: Typ. 10 mA
• PV cell: Crystalline Si, 20 mm x 20 mm
• Window: Low-iron solar glass
• Cell temperature measurement: Pt1000 RTD
• Calibration data: Internally calibrated; no calibration data to manage
• Setup: Optional configuration kit allows PC-based setup

Communication

• Protocol: Modbus over RS485 (RTU), user-settable address
• Baud rate: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600

Enclosure

• Material: Anodized aluminum housing
• Ingress protection: IP67

Dimensions

• Dimensions: 2.56 x 2.56 x 0.96 in / 65 x 65 x 24.4 mm
• Weight: 0.375 lbs / 170 g
• Mounting: 
• • Side and bottom mounting holes
  • Multi-option mounting brackets
• Cable Type: Shielded, weather resistant, UV-rated, 24 awg / 0.2 mm2
• Length options: 
• • 4 m, 10 m, 25 m, 50 m, 100 m (order separately)
  • Optional Y-cable for multi-sensor networks
• Connector: M12 circular connector, IP67
• Pinout: Power, Ground, RS485 A & B, Shield

Measurement

• ​Irradiance calibration: ± 1.2% @ 1000 W/m2
• Measurement uncertainty: ± 2.0% @ 1000 W/m2
• Cell temperature: ± 1 °C
• Stability: 0.5% / year

Standards

• IEC 61724-1 Class A, IEC 60904-2