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Modeling The Silicon Solar Cell As An Optical Detector, Leo Albert Mallette
Modeling The Silicon Solar Cell As An Optical Detector, Leo Albert Mallette
Retrospective Theses and Dissertations
Solar cells have traditionally been used for a direct sunlight to energy conversion, and there has been relatively little investigation into their use as a low data rate optical detector. This report summarizes the results of experimental work to model a silicon solar cell, and its response to a pulse of light. A lumped circuit model, and governing equations for each of the elements is developed. Experimental data on several cells are used to curve fit the governing equations. The parameters of interest are tested as a function of both temperature, and background illumination. Having derived a working model, using …
The Silicon Solar Cell As An Optical Detector, Stephen O. Saltsman
The Silicon Solar Cell As An Optical Detector, Stephen O. Saltsman
Retrospective Theses and Dissertations
The optical detector characteristics of a silicon solar cell are examined. A general equivalent circuit model is developed and typical parameter values are determined. A comparison is made between the photovoltaic and short circuit operating modes and the short circuit mode is shown to be preferable in terms of linearity, extended frequency response, and temperature stability. A method is developed to determine the noise characteristics of the amplifier-detector system used in the short circuit mode. The silicon solar cell is shown to be an economical alternative to standard photodiodes in low to medium data rate systems.