ASTM E 1040 : 1998

1.1 This specification describes the physical requirements for primary and secondary terrestrial nonconcentrator photovoltaic reference cells. A reference cell is defined as a device that meets the requirements of this specification and is calibrated in accordance with Method E1039, Test Method E1125, or Test Method E1362.

1.2 Reference cells are used in the determination of the electrical performance of photovoltaic devices, as stated in Test Methods E948 and Methods E1036.

1.3 Two reference cell physical specifications are described:

1.3.1 Small-Cell Package Design -A small, durable package with a low thermal mass, wide optical field-of-view, and standardized dimensions intended for photovoltaic devices up to 20 by 20 mm, and

1.3.2 Module-Package Design -A package intended to simulate the optical and thermal properties of a photovoltaic module design, but electric connections are made to only one photovoltaic cell in order to eliminate problems with calibrating series and parallel connections of cells. Physical dimensions are not standardized.

1.4 These reference cells are intended to be used in applications where a significant fraction of the irradiance has incidence angles less than 30°, with respect to normal as defined in Specification E927.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.