ASTM E948-16(2020)

5.1 This test method provides a procedure for testing and reporting the electrical performance of photovoltaic cells.

5.2 The test results may be used for comparison of cells among a group of similar cells or to compare diverse designs, such as different manufacturers' products. Repeated measurements of the same cell may be used to study changes in device performance.

5.3 This test method determines the electrical performance of a photovoltaic cell at a single instant of time and the results do no imply any past or future performance.

5.4 This test method requires a linear reference cell calibrated with respect to an appropriate reference spectral irradiance distribution, such as Tables E490, or G173. It is the responsibility of the user to determine which reference spectral irradiance distribution is appropriate for a particular application.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the electrical performance of a photovoltaic cell under simulated sunlight by means of a calibrated reference cell procedure.

1.2 Electrical performance measurements are reported with respect to a select set of standard reporting conditions (SRC) (see Table 1) or to user-specified reporting conditions. In either case, the chosen reporting conditions are abbreviated as RC.

1.3 This test method is applicable only to photovoltaic cells with a linear short-circuit current versus total irradiance response up to and including the total irradiance used in the measurement.

1.4 The cell parameters determined by this test method apply only at the time of test, and imply no past or future performance level.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

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

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.