Specs (STC)
Standard Test Conditions (STC) are standard test conditions that reflect the operation of a solar panel under ideal conditions. As part of the tests, the weather of a clear sunny day with an air temperature of +25 °C, no wind, solar intensity of 1000 W/m² and an emission spectrum relative to air mass of 1.5 is simulated. The surface of the solar cell must be placed strictly perpendicular to the rays from the celestial body. Note that in real operation of the solar panel, such conditions are extremely rare. However, in general, the characteristics of the STC allow us to evaluate the "passport" parameters of the energy storage device.
Power (Pmax)
The amount of electricity in watts that a solar panel produces in one hour in tests using the STC method. The panel must provide the declared number of watts during normal operation.
Nominal voltage (Vmp)
The voltage reading on the voltmeter during a solar panel test at the nominal power level according to the STC method. This parameter, Vmp, stands for Voltage at Maximum Power and is measured in volts. It helps determine which type of batteries the panel is designed for — either
12 V or
24V.
Nominal power (Imp)
Ammeter reading during solar panel testing under STC conditions. The value of the rated current Imp (Current at Maximum Power) is measured in amperes.
Open-circuit voltage (Voc)
The voltage generated by the solar battery in idle mode, that is, without connecting the load. Behind the abbreviation Voc stands for Voltage Open Circuit.
Short circuit current (Isc)
The current value under the condition of zero voltage (Short Circuit Current).
MC4 connector
MC4 connectors are used for connecting solar panels to each other and for crimping the ends of power cables. Such connectors have a sealed waterproof design, suitable for outdoor use.
MC4 connectors are available in female and male versions. They provide long-term stability of solar panels and resistance to climatic influences.
Waterproof
The level of protection is indicated by two digits according to the IP standard. The first digit indicates the protection against dust (maximum 6), the second indicates the degree of protection against water (maximum 8). The maximum degree of protection according to this standard is IP68, that is, complete tightness. There are also markings of the IPX4 type, where the first digit is not spelled out - this means that the solar panel has not been officially certified for dust resistance.
Operating temperature
The temperature range in which the solar module functions normally. Exceeding the specified norms in any of the directions leads to a decrease in the productivity of energy generation, accelerated degradation of the panel, and the appearance of microcracks on its surface. For most solar panels, the operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C.
