Solar Cell
Type: Photovoltaic Device
Function: Converts sunlight directly into electrical energy via the photovoltaic effect.
Common Types:
- Monocrystalline Silicon (High efficiency, ~20–24%)
- Polycrystalline Silicon (Moderate efficiency, ~15–20%)
- Thin-Film (e.g., CdTe, CIGS, a-Si; lower efficiency but flexible)
- Perovskite (Emerging tech, high potential efficiency)
Key Parameters:
- Voc: Open-circuit voltage
- Isc: Short-circuit current
- FF: Fill Factor
- Efficiency (η): (Voc × Isc × FF) / Pin
Applications: Solar panels, portable chargers, satellites, IoT devices.
Note: Always use bypass diodes in series-connected cells to prevent hot spots.