Measurement of Series Resistance

Source: Chegg

Measuring Series Resistance in Solar Cells

Curve Fitting Method

One common method to measure series resistance in solar cells is through curve fitting. This involves fitting the illuminated IV curve with equations like the ideal diode equation or the double diode equation. However, in practice, there can be challenges due to the complex nature of a solar cell, which consists of multiple resistances and diodes. The series resistance of a solar cell changes with the level of current, making it difficult to accurately measure using simple models.

Effect of Rs on Only Part of the Cell

When only a part of the solar cell is affected by series resistance, it can lead to various curve shapes. For example, if half of the cell is affected by Rs, the IV curve may show rounding around the maximum power point. On the other hand, if only 10% of the cell is affected, the curve may resemble a cell with low shunt resistance.

Additional measurements beyond curve fitting are often required to accurately measure series resistance in solar cells due to the limitations of this method.

Source: Physics LibreTexts