Pyranometer

Product image for Pyranometer
Product in use image for Pyranometer
Product image for Pyranometer
Product image for Pyranometer

The Pyranometer measures the power of electromagnetic radiation in watts per square meter. It is sensitive to near infrared, visible, and UV radiation, where 90% of solar energy is concentrated.

Description

The Pyranometer measures the power of electromagnetic radiation. It is sensitive to near infrared, visible, and UV radiation, where 90% of solar energy is concentrated. It reads in watts per square meter, so it is great for experiments with solar cells and calculating their efficiency.

It is weatherproof and has a dome-shape top to allow it to handle a wide range of sun angles. It comes with a 6 meter cord.

Specifications

  • Irradiance Range: 0 to 1100 watts/m2 (in full sun)
  • Absolute Accuracy: ±5%
  • Repeatability: ±1%
  • Long-Term Drift: Less than 3% per year
  • Cosine Response:
    • 45° zenith angle: 1%
    • 75° zenith angle: ±5%
  • Wavelength range: 370 nm to 1140 nm
  • Current draw: 300 µA
  • Output signal: 0 to 4.4 V (dark to full sunlight)
  • Resolution (LabQuest 2, LabQuest, LabQuest Mini, Go!Link, LabPro): 0.3 Watts/m2
  • Sensor dimentions:
    • Diameter: 2.4 cm
    • Height: 2.75 cm
  • Materials: Anodized aluminum with case acrylic lens

Download the user manual for full specifications

Related Sensors for Solar Cell Experiments

Small Solar Cells

The Pyranometer is great for use with current and voltage probes in solar energy studies with small solar cells (with dimensions of a few centimeters on a side).

Sensor
Current Probe Max current: 0.6 A
Differential Voltage Probe Max voltage: 6 V
Voltage Probe Max voltage: 10 V

Large Solar Panels

The Pyranometer is great for use with current and voltage probes in solar energy studies with large solar panels (with dimensions greater than 30 cm).

Sensor
High Current Sensor Max current: 10 A
30-Volt Voltage Probe Max voltage: 30 V

What’s Included

  • Vernier Pyranometer
  • Pyranometer lens cover
  • User manual

Sensor Requirements

The Pyranometer requires a compatible interface and software to collect data. Interface and software sold separately. Getting started with probeware »

Compatible Interfaces

The Pyranometer is compatible with these interfaces:

Software Requirements

The Pyranometer requires data-collection software:

Ordering Information

NameOrder CodePriceQuantity
PyranometerPYR-BTA$199

Related Products

Educational use only: Vernier products are designed for educational use. They are not appropriate for industrial, medical, or commercial applications. Product usage disclaimer »

ORDER CODE PYR-BTA
$199

Sample Data

Pyranometer readings on a clear day
Pyranometer readings on a clear day
Get free experiments, innovative lab ideas, product announcements, software updates, workshop schedules, and resources for grants. Join our mailing list »
© 2013 Vernier Software & Technology, LLC. All rights reserved.
Set Your Location »