Full-spectrum AAA-level LED solar simulator with 300-1900nm light beads and core parameter indicators of the finished product

In the fields of photovoltaic perovskite research, material aging testing, and photothermal catalysis, the parameters of the AM1.5G full-spectrum LED steady-state solar light simulator directly determine the authority and reproducibility of the experimental data. Facing the complex parameter table, how to grasp the key points? This article, based on the IEC 60904-9:2020 international standard, systematically disassembles its core parameter system for you.

1. Core performance parameters: Quantitative expression of AAA rating The performance of any solar light simulator is first rated through three dimensions, namely the “3UN” grade: 1. Spectral match (Spectral Match) Definition: Divide the 300-1200nm (or wider) wavelength band into 6 intervals, calculate the proportion of the integral irradiance in each interval to the total, and the ratio to the corresponding interval of the standard AM1.5G spectrum. A-level standard: The ratio of each wavelength band is between 0.75-1.25. A+ level standard: The ratio of each wavelength band is between 0.875-1.125 (added in IEC 60904-9:2020). LED solution advantages: Independent control of multiple channels (ad esempio 16-32 channels) can achieve precise tuning per wavelength band, easily reaching A+ level, especially strengthening the key wavelength bands of 300-400nm ultraviolet and >1000nm near-infrared.

2. Irradiance non-uniformity (Non-Uniformity of Irradiance) Definition: The relative deviation of the maximum irradiance from the minimum irradiance within the effective light spot. Calculation formula: (E_max – E_min) / (E_max + E_min) × 100%. A-level standard: ≤ 2% (top-level equipment uses compound lens array to reach ≤ 1%). Physical significance: Directly affects the consistency of testing of large-area batteries or arrays. If the non-uniformity is too high, different positions of the same sample will measure different efficiencies.

3. Irradiance instability (Temporal Instability) Definition: The degree of irradiance drift over a specified time period. Classification: Long-term instability (LTI): Used for steady-state simulators, measuring the drift during continuous operation for several hours. Short-term instability (STI): Used for pulse simulators, measuring fluctuations during millisecond-level flashes. A-level standard: ≤ 2% (high-end LED steady-state equipment uses closed-loop light feedback, can achieve ≤ 1%). Selection significance: For stability research of perovskite and other long-term tests, LTI ≤ 1% is the cornerstone of data reliability. 2. Spectral-related parameters

4. Spectral range (Spectral Range) Definition: The effective wavelength interval of the simulator’s output. Typical full-spectrum value: 300-1800nm (covering ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared). Subdivided wavelength bands: Ultraviolet (UV): 300-400nm – the key wavelength band for material chain breakage and yellowing. Visible light (VIS): 400-780nm – affecting dye fading and photosynthesis. Near-infrared (NIR): 780-1800nm – contributing heat and driving photothermal effects. Selection suggestion: For perovskite/stacking research, 300-1200nm must be selected; for photothermal catalysis, it should be extended to 1800nm.

5. Total irradiance and adjustment range Standard value: 1000 W/m² (1 SUN, AM1.5G standard). Adjustment range: 0.1-1.5 SUN continuous adjustable (some high-end equipment can be extended to 0.1-2.0 SUN). Adjustment step: ≤ 0.01 SUN, meeting the fine requirements from weak light response to concentrating tests. III. Geometric Optics Parameters

6. Effective Irradiation Area and Spot Size Definition: The maximum irradiation area that can achieve AAA-level performance. Common Specifications: 2×2 inches (50×50mm) – for the development of small-sized solar cells. 4×4 inches (100×100mm) – for standard laboratory samples. 6×6 inches (150×150mm) – for small component testing. Customizable to the millimeter level – for large-scale modules or vehicle components. Selection Points: Distinguish between “lamp head size” E “effective irradiation area”, and the sample must be completely placed within the latter.

7. Beam Diffraction Angle (Straightening Angle) Definition: The parallelism of the emitted beam, measured in degrees (°). Typical Value: < ±2° (straightening type), simulating the parallel characteristics of sunlight. Selection Significance: For concentrating photovoltaics, angle-dependent testing, and HUD research, a small diffraction angle is crucial.

8. Working Distance Definition: The vertical distance from the lamp head’s light outlet to the sample surface. Typical Value: 200-500 mm. Selection Significance: It is necessary to confirm the compatibility with existing equipment such as glove boxes, probe tables, and temperature/humidity chambers. IV. Physical and Environmental Parameters

9. Operating Temperature and Humidity Typical Value: 15-35°C, < 85% RH (no condensation). Selection Significance: If the device needs to operate in an environmental chamber, it is necessary to confirm the temperature range and sealing performance of the equipment.

10. Cooling Method Type: Air Cooling: Active fan cooling, suitable for small light spots and intermittent tests. Water Cooling: Circulation cooling, suitable for large light spots and long-term stable operation (>8 ore). Selection Recommendation: For long-term aging tests, water cooling must be used to ensure stable LED junction temperature and avoid spectral drift. V. Light Source Lifespan and Maintenance

11. LED Lifespan Typical Value: 20,000-40,000 ore (A 70% light attenuation, L70). Advantage: Much higher than the 1000-1500 hours of xenon lamps, almost maintenance-free, significantly reducing long-term usage costs.

12. Calibration Cycle Recommendation: Once a year, using standard cells or spectral radiometers for traceability calibration. VI. Software and Control Parameters

13. Communication Interface Common Protocols: RS232, USB, Ethernet, supporting LabVIEW drivers, Python SDK or SCPI command set.

14. Software Functions Core Function: Spectrum Customization and Storage. Timed Switching and Light Control. Automatic IV Scan and MPPT Tracking. Long-term Aging Program Programming. Selection Significance: The software directly determines the efficiency of use and the level of experimental automation.

15. Channel Number and Expandability Channel Number: 16-32 independent control channels. Selection Significance: The more channels, the higher the spectral fitting accuracy, and it supports future upgrades to new bands.

VII. Summary: How to Read the Parameter Table? Facing the parameter table, it is recommended to filter according to the following logic: Priority Parameter Dimension Key Indicators Selection Points Core Spectral Performance Spectral Matching Degree (A+ level), Spectral Range Request a third-party test report to confirm the coverage of ultraviolet/near-infrared. Foundation Stability Inhomogeneity (≤2%), Instability (≤1%) Confirm the coverage of the effective area of the sample and the matching of the cooling solution for the duration. Match Geometric Optics Light Spot Size, Working Distance Compatible with existing equipment space Expand Software and Control Channel Number, Communication Protocol, Software Function Meet the requirements for automation and customized spectral needs Summary:

The parameter system of the AM1.5G full-spectrum LED steady-state solar light simulator is essentially a quantitative description of the reproduction accuracy of “standard sunlight”. Understanding the three core aspects of spectral matching degree, non-uniformity and instability, as well as mastering the key elements such as spectral range, spot size and heat dissipation method, forms the basis for making correct decisions during the selection process. For experiments aiming for top journal publication or authoritative certification, A+ grade spectra, ≤1% stability and full spectral coverage are non-negotiable hard indicators.