ASTM E1143-05(2019)
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Determining the Linearity of a Photovoltaic Device Parameter with Respect To a Test Parameter
Standard Test Method for Determining the Linearity of a Photovoltaic Device Parameter with Respect To a Test Parameter
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is used to evaluate the applicability of other ASTM test methods to a photovoltaic device.
5.2 The procedure described in this test method is intended to be used to determine the degree of linearity between the short-circuit current of a photovoltaic device and the irradiance level incident on the device. This test method can be used for other device parameters, provided the function passes through the origin.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method determines the degree of linearity of a photovoltaic device parameter with respect to a test parameter, for example, short-circuit current with respect to irradiance.
1.2 The linearity determined by this test method applies only at the time of testing, and implies no past or future performance level.
1.3 This test method applies only to non-concentrator terrestrial photovoltaic devices.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.5 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.
1.6 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.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Mar-2019
- Technical Committee
- E44 - Solar, Geothermal and Other Alternative Energy Sources
- Drafting Committee
- E44.09 - Photovoltaic Electric Power Conversion
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2008
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2007
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2005
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2005
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2005
Overview
ASTM E1143-05(2019) - Standard Test Method for Determining the Linearity of a Photovoltaic Device Parameter with Respect To a Test Parameter provides a systematic approach to assess the linearity of key electrical characteristics in photovoltaic (PV) devices when exposed to defined test parameters, such as changes in irradiance. Developed by ASTM International, this standard is essential for ensuring the accurate evaluation and comparison of PV device performance, especially concerning their response to variable test conditions. The method applies exclusively to non-concentrator terrestrial photovoltaic devices and employs SI units as the measurement standard.
Key Topics
- Linearity determination: This standard establishes procedures to evaluate how closely a photovoltaic device parameter-such as short-circuit current-follows a linear relationship with a chosen test parameter (typically irradiance or temperature), provided the relationship passes through the origin.
- Applicability of other ASTM methods: E1143 helps assess whether results from other ASTM photovoltaic test methods, such as ASTM E948 or E1036, are appropriate for the PV device under evaluation.
- Test method constraints:
- Linearity assessment reflects device performance only at the time of testing.
- The procedure requires at least five measurement values of the test parameter, with those values spanning the intended operational range.
- Only non-concentrator terrestrial PV devices are within scope.
- Measurement techniques: All electrical measurements must conform to existing ASTM methods (e.g., E948 or E1036) to ensure precision and reliability.
Applications
Using ASTM E1143-05(2019) brings value to several practical scenarios in the solar energy industry:
- Quality assurance for PV manufacturers: Verifying the linearity of short-circuit current with irradiance ensures that photovoltaic panels or modules behave predictably under real-world sunlight conditions, supporting claims of product reliability and consistency.
- Performance comparisons: Testing to this standard allows manufacturers, researchers, and certifying bodies to consistently compare and validate photovoltaic device performance across models and brands.
- Applicability assessment of testing standards: By determining linearity, users can confidently select and apply appropriate ASTM photovoltaic test methods to their devices, avoiding measurement inaccuracies due to nonlinear behavior.
- Research and development: Engineers and scientists in R&D utilize this test to explore the limits of new photovoltaic materials and configurations, optimizing designs for maximum predictable energy output.
- Regulatory compliance and market access: Meeting ASTM E1143 requirements supports alignment with international trade and market entry standards, particularly where conformity to recognized international methodologies is required.
Related Standards
- ASTM E948: Test Method for Electrical Performance of Photovoltaic Cells Using Reference Cells Under Simulated Sunlight. Provides detailed procedures for electrical measurement under controlled light conditions.
- ASTM E1036: Test Methods for Electrical Performance of Nonconcentrator Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules and Arrays Using Reference Cells. Used for performance evaluation and efficiency calculations.
- ASTM E772: Terminology for Solar Energy Conversion (withdrawn). Helpful for understanding standard terms used in photovoltaic testing.
- International Guidelines: Developed consistent with World Trade Organization TBT Committee guidelines for standardization, supporting global applicability.
By following ASTM E1143-05(2019), professionals can confidently determine the linear response of photovoltaic devices to specific test parameters, ensuring accurate performance characterization and facilitating trustworthy product comparisons and certifications in the rapidly advancing solar energy sector.
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ASTM E1143-05(2019) - Standard Test Method for Determining the Linearity of a Photovoltaic Device Parameter with Respect To a Test Parameter
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E1143-05(2019) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Determining the Linearity of a Photovoltaic Device Parameter with Respect To a Test Parameter". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This test method is used to evaluate the applicability of other ASTM test methods to a photovoltaic device. 5.2 The procedure described in this test method is intended to be used to determine the degree of linearity between the short-circuit current of a photovoltaic device and the irradiance level incident on the device. This test method can be used for other device parameters, provided the function passes through the origin. SCOPE 1.1 This test method determines the degree of linearity of a photovoltaic device parameter with respect to a test parameter, for example, short-circuit current with respect to irradiance. 1.2 The linearity determined by this test method applies only at the time of testing, and implies no past or future performance level. 1.3 This test method applies only to non-concentrator terrestrial photovoltaic devices. 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.5 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. 1.6 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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This test method is used to evaluate the applicability of other ASTM test methods to a photovoltaic device. 5.2 The procedure described in this test method is intended to be used to determine the degree of linearity between the short-circuit current of a photovoltaic device and the irradiance level incident on the device. This test method can be used for other device parameters, provided the function passes through the origin. SCOPE 1.1 This test method determines the degree of linearity of a photovoltaic device parameter with respect to a test parameter, for example, short-circuit current with respect to irradiance. 1.2 The linearity determined by this test method applies only at the time of testing, and implies no past or future performance level. 1.3 This test method applies only to non-concentrator terrestrial photovoltaic devices. 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.5 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. 1.6 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.
ASTM E1143-05(2019) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 27.160 - Solar energy engineering. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E1143-05(2019) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E1143-05(2015), ASTM E948-16(2020), ASTM E1036-15(2019), ASTM E948-16, ASTM E1036-15, ASTM E948-15, ASTM E772-13, ASTM E1036-12, ASTM E772-11, ASTM E948-09, ASTM E1036-08, ASTM E1036-02(2007), ASTM E948-05a, ASTM E772-05, ASTM E948-05. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM E1143-05(2019) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
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.
Designation: E1143 − 05 (Reapproved 2019) An American National Standard
Standard Test Method for
Determining the Linearity of a Photovoltaic Device
Parameter with Respect To a Test Parameter
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1143; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope centrator Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules and Arrays
Using Reference Cells
1.1 This test method determines the degree of linearity of a
E1328 Terminology Relating to Photovoltaic Solar Energy
photovoltaic device parameter with respect to a test parameter,
Conversion (Withdrawn 2012)
for example, short-circuit current with respect to irradiance.
3. Terminology
1.2 The linearity determined by this test method applies
only at the time of testing, and implies no past or future
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this test
performance level.
method, see Terminologies E772 and E1328.
1.3 This test method applies only to non-concentrator ter-
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
restrial photovoltaic devices.
3.2.1 photovoltaic device parameter—a characteristic of a
photovoltaic device, such as short-circuit current or open-
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
circuit voltage.
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
standard.
3.2.2 test parameter—a characteristic of the test conditions
to which the photovoltaic device is exposed, such as irradiance
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
or temperature.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.3 Symbols:
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Meaning Symbol
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Test parameter X
Device parameter Y
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
Number of data pairs taken n
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Slope of the linear function m
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Fit to the data
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- Estimated variance of the slope s
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
4. Summary of Test Method
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
4.1 This test method requires the measurement of the
parameters in question at or near the anticipated device
2. Referenced Documents
operating conditions.The number of measurements made must
2.1 ASTM Standards:
be sufficient to cover the range of operating conditions ex-
E772 Terminology of Solar Energy Conversion
pected.
E948 Test Method for Electrical Performance of Photovol-
4.2 Device electrical parameters shall be measured in ac-
taic Cells Using Reference Cells Under Simulated Sun-
cordance with Test Methods E948 or Test Methods E1036,
light
whichever is applicable.
E1036 Test Methods for Electrical Performance of Noncon-
4.3 A linear function that passes through the origin is fit to
the data, and the deviation of these data from the function is
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E44 on Solar,
used as the criterion for determining linearity.
Geothermal and OtherAlternative Energy Sources and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee E44.09 on Photovoltaic Electric Power Conversion.
5. Significance and Use
Current edition approved April 1, 2019. Published April 2019. Originally
approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as E1143 – 05 (2015). 5.1 This test method is used to
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