The document describes a solar power meter called the Solar-100 that is used to measure solar radiation. It can be used to calculate heating from sunlight, research optimal locations for solar panels, and measure sunlight transmission through glass. The meter has components including a sensor and buttons to power on, select units, and hold readings. Instructions are provided on safely using the meter to take measurements of solar insulation through windows and solar panels. A diagram also shows how solar power is converted to electricity for homes.

1. BuildingPerformanceModule
The City University of New York
New York City College Of Technology
Architectural Technology Department
written by Felix Rodriguez
Solar Power Meter - (Solar-100)
April 27, 2015

2. BuildingPerformanceModule
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Solar Power Meter - (Solar-100)
Definition:
The Solar Power Meter is a meter used for
measuring solar radiation.
Applications:
Calculation and verification of the heating or heat
reduction caused by direct sunlight.
Solar power research for location of the solar
panels or solar water heater.
Measurement of the sun’s transmission through
transparent and film glass.
Verify windows solar insulation efficiency.
Solar Power Meter - Loggers Components

3. BuildingPerformanceModule
3
When taking measurements:
1. Avoid taking measurements in humid or wet places or using in
rooms where explosive gas, combustile gas, steam or excessive
dust is present.
2. Avoid taking measurements if you notice anomalous condi-
tions such as breakages, deformations, fractures, leakages or
battery liquid, blind display ect.
3. Operating environments are for indoor use.
4. Do not put this device in direct sunlight or where it is hot and/
or damp. Remember to turn OFF the power after use. For long
storage, remove the battery to prevent the battery from leaking
to cause damage to the parts inside.
5. This is a precision device. During use or storage, do not go
beyond its spec. to prevent any possible damange or danger.
Powering and Using the Solar Power Meter:
Step 1: Press the Power On button, to turn power on or off.
Step 2: Remove the sensor cap and place the sensor perpendicular to the light source.
Step 3: Select the prefered Unit (Watts or BTU).
Step 4: Select the range for reading.
Step 1:
Fig 1. Solar Power Meter - Power On Steps

4. BuildingPerformanceModule
4
How to properly place the Logger for measuring:
1. Once cap is removed and meter powered on.
2. Sensor automatically displays readings as is pointed towards
the light source.
3. Press Data Hold button to record on paper your readings.
Press again to continue measuring.
Step 2:
How to Measure House’s windows solar insulation
Measure the solar insulation effect of your House’s windows.
1. Close the window.
2. Press the Power buttom on your SOLAR-100 solar power meter, and “00.0” comes
up on the screen.
3. Put the device close to the window and aim it at the sun.
4. Compare the value against that acquired when the window is closed and the device
is placed at the same position. in order to understand the windows’s heat efficiency.
Step 3:
Fig 2. Solar Power Meter - Placement on Solar Panel
Fig 3. Window Solar insulation

5. BuildingPerformanceModule
5
How Solar Power Works
Step 4:
Solar Power Meter - (Solar-100)
Image on the left show how Solar Power works
for your home.
1. Solar Panels turn photons from the sun into DC
Electricity.
2. The inverter in your home turns DC current into
alternating current AC for use in your home.
3. Any excess power left can be sent back onto the
grid.