Research related to photovoltaic panels comprises different topics starting with modelling solar cells, finding new maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms, testing existing ones or designing of DC/DC converters for MPPT systems and microgrids that incorporate photovoltaic energy sources. In each of the examples above a deep knowledge of photovoltaic panels is required, as well as a reliable measurement system that can deliver continuous, stable light with enough power to meet standard test conditions (STC) and that can ensure repeatable results. Therefore this paper presents a low-cost solar simulator with a microcontroller-based measurement system, that can be used for various measurements of low-power photovoltaic panels.

The work presents the results of a research on the photoacoustic spectra of thin surface layers of Cd_1−xBe_xTe crystals formed by grinding and polishing their surfaces. As a result of matching the theoretical and experimental photoacoustic spectra, thermal and optical parameters of these layers were determined. Thermal parameters of the surface layers, such as thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity, turned out to be much worse than the analogous parameters of the substrate. The increase in the optical absorption of surface layers for photon energies below E_g was also determined.

E_g was also determined.