Originally launched at InterSolar North America 2011, the Technology Test Drive Program focused on providing educational institutions equipment like solar spectroradiometers used to measure solar simulators on a one week evaluation period. The goal was to put the most cutting edge technology into the hands of researchers to further the advancement of solar cell technology.
"We at KMSA are very excited to offer this program to the commercial PV as well as the educational communities. Having a long and proven history in superior optics and light measurement technology, we feel that allowing users to experience and see the benefits of our products themselves is extremely important," said Lou Carulli, Marketing Manager for Konica Minolta Sensing Americas Inc.
Last year KMSA launched a full line of photovoltaic measurement and characterization instruments to the US market. At the center of the measurement solutions offered are the AK series solar reference cells. These cells are the products of cooperation by Konica Minolta Sensing and The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). The reference cells are used as a standard point of calibration to ensure consistent measurements of photovoltaic cells.
"Our reference cell is specifically designed to adjust the illumination of solar simulators to achieve standard test conditions. KMSA is proud to introduce to market a reference cell with superior spectral response over current technology," said Bryan Bond, Photovoltaic Business Manager for Konica Minolta Sensing Americas, Inc.
The newly developed reference cells provide Konica Minolta Sensing with a platform to promote the photovoltaic measurement and characterization business. KMSA's entry into this new market stems from a $20 million capital investment by Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc and Konarka Technologies to develop and distribute thin-film photovoltaics.
Demand for green energy production and new higher efficiency materials continue to grow. As a global leader in measurement technology and instrumentation, Konica Minolta Sensing is further expanding its reach into this dynamically growing market. KMSA is using its expertise to quantify the results of these new materials and technologies.
In addition to the AK series reference cells and Technology Test Drive Program, KMSA also has product offerings for spectroradiometers from Soma, IV measurement software from Sunrise and solar simulators from San-ei.
