Description
Description
PSP is a silicone-cell pyranometer that measures the intensity of solar energy in a given area as sunlight strikes the sensor. The analog output value is usually presented as W/m2 (watts per square meter).
PSP is manufactured in the USA by Apogee Instruments. Pyranometers can be used for scientific calculations to estimate the rate of crop transpiration or used to model expected output from a solar power installation. PSP can also be used to assess cloud cover conditions for aviation and road maintenance applications.
As a professional-quality sensor, the PSP solar sensor is designed to provide years of trouble-free operation.
Feature Summary
- Hemispheric top sheds water and debris
- Fully potted electronics
- Self-powered design
- Anodized aluminum body
- Silicone photodiode
- Calibrated to +/-5%
- Outdoor-rated cable
- Made in the USA
Key Features
Construction
PSP includes an anodized aluminum case, fully potted sensor circuit, and shielded cable.
Sensor Output
Analog output
Installation
PSP is user-serviceable. It uses a single mounting screw for securing it to the mounting bracket. Cable should point north when used in the northern hemisphere.
Mounting
The solar sensor should be mounted so as to minimize unwanted reflections and shadows. The sensor mounts to the Dyacon radiation shield using BKT‑PSP‑1. This is a simple bracket that requires no tools.
Specifications
| MEASUREMENT* | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 0.20 mV per W/m2 |
| Calibration Uncertainty | +/- 5% |
| Repeatability | < 1% |
| Drift | < 2% per year |
| Non-linearity | < 1% up to 1750 W/m2 |
| Response Time | < 1 ms |
| Field of View | 180° |
| Spectral Range | 360 nm to 1120 nm |
| Directional Response | +/- 5% at 75° zenith |
| ELECTRICAL | |
|---|---|
| Power | None Unamplified photovoltaic response |
| Sensor Output Range | 0 mV to 250 mV typical |
*Specifications are based upon manufacturer data.
| MECHANICAL | |
|---|---|
| Housing | Anodized aluminum |
| Cable | Shielded, twisted pair Black Santoprene™ jacket 26 AWG, PVC, tinned Red, black, and white |
| Dimensions | 2.4 cm diameter x 2.75 cm height 0.94” x 1.1” |
| Weight | 90 g (3.17 oz) |
| ENVIRONMENTAL | |
|---|---|
| Operating Humidity | 0% to 100% RH |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 70°C |
| Sealing | Submersible to 30 m |
| ACCESSORIES | |
|---|---|
| Accessories | BKT-PSP-1™ mounting bracket |
