How to Perform PV Inverter Testing

Get quote
PV Inverter Test Solution
+ PV Inverter Test Solution
PV Inverter Test Solution
+ PV Inverter Test Solution

Simulating PV arrays to test MPPT algorithms and circuits

Testing PV inverters requires engineers to verify the performance of the inverter’s maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms and circuits. MPPT algorithms are complex, and under-the-sun testing at different temperatures and irradiance conditions is difficult, expensive, and time-consuming. The engineers also need to load and measure the output power of the PV inverter.

Escape the unpredictability of local weather conditions by using a PV / solar array simulator. Use a programmable DC power source to help simulate real-world PV / solar arrays, and test them against various environmental factors such as temperature, irradiance, age, and cell technology. Make sure to test the inverters according to the industry standards, such as EN50530, which provides a procedure for measuring the efficiency of MPPT. Use an AC / grid emulator to load and test the inverter’s output.

PV inverter test solution

Verifying the performance of PV inverters under varying weather and load conditions requires simulating solar arrays in the lab and AC / grid. With the Keysight solar array simulator and software, engineers can test up to 12 MPPT channels simultaneously and perform complex static and dynamic EN50530 tests automatically with just a few clicks. The Keysight SL1200A regenerative AC / grid emulators enable proper loading of the output of the PV inverter and measurement of output power.
Get quote

See demo of the PV inverter test

Explore products in our PV inverter test solution

Related use cases

How to Perform Accurate In-Fixture VNA Measurements

An in-fixture vector network analyzer (VNA) measurement connects a device under test (DUT) through a test fixture rather than directly to the analyzer test ports. The measurement setup consists of a vector network analyzer, calibrated test cables, fixture interfaces, and a repeatable DUT connection. The procedure begins with calibration at accessible measurement reference planes, followed by fixture characterization and the application of appropriate error-correction or de-embedding techniques. Engineers then measure the DUT's scattering parameters (S-parameters) across the required frequency range to evaluate insertion loss, return loss, and other relevant RF characteristics while accounting for the electrical effects introduced by the test fixture.

Learn more

How to Validate O-RAN Radio Unit Synchronization

Validate O-RAN Radio Unit Synchronization: a technical workflow for configuring clock references, measurement interfaces, and controlled network conditions. Review how to capture synchronization behavior, interpret clock-quality and protocol observations, and compare results with explicitly selected timing or conformance criteria. This workflow is intended for engineering validation of connected Ethernet and O-RAN equipment.

Learn more

How to Select VNA Calibration Standards

A vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration setup uses a defined set of calibration standards and their associated electrical characteristics to establish accurate measurement reference planes. The procedure begins by identifying the connector interface, reference impedance, frequency range, and appropriate calibration method. Engineers select compatible calibration standards and perform the required calibration sequence to correct systematic measurement errors, including directivity, source and load match, and reflection and transmission tracking. After calibration, verification measurements are performed using an independent verification standard or a device with known characteristics. The results are compared against expected values to assess calibration accuracy before proceeding with scattering parameter (S-parameter) measurements of the device under test.

Learn more

How to Test EV Onboard Chargers

Testing electric vehicle (EV) onboard chargers (OBCs) requires emulating and sequencing various AC power input conditions and power line disturbances. Learn how to set up a test to emulate AC input voltage and frequency parameters, including power line disturbances, to ensure interoperability between EVs and charging stations.

Learn more

How to Measure EV Battery Cell Self-Discharge

Characterizing the self-discharge behavior of an electric vehicle (EV) battery requires the use of a potentiostatic analyzer to hold the cell’s voltage constant and stable. Learn how to use a potentiostatic measurement approach to identify cells with an unacceptably high self-discharge current.

Learn more

How to Validate C-V2X Device Performance

Validating C-V2X device performance requires automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to perform functional, protocol, and RF measurements against evolving standards. Learn how to set up a test to validate C-V2X device performance of both Uu and PC5 interfaces.

Learn more

contact us logo

Get in touch with one of our experts

Need help finding the right solution for you?

Contact us