Solar Panels Gain 30% Additional Power with Maxim's Cell-String Optimizer

Maxim

First IC to perform MPPT in volume production with top PV module manufacturers

New cell-string optimizer technology from Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. allows photovoltaic (PV) panels to harvest significantly more energy and simplifies design complexity for solar installation projects.

Our solar cell optimizers embed the maximum power point tracker (MPPT) function deeper in the photovoltaic system than ever before. You’re no longer constrained by the limits of conventional design or panel-level optimization. No more costly boxes hanging off the back of your panel, no more network cabling or communications gateways, and no more hotspot module stress. Solar cell optimizers enable you to perform MPPT and DC optimization on each cell string. This granularity minimizes power degradation due to shading, soiling, and other sources of mismatch within the panel.

Solar Panels Gain 30% Additional Power with Maxim's Cell-String Optimizer

Maxim's cell-string optimizers are highly integrated DC-DC converters that replace the bypass diode and perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT) deep inside the PV module. By replacing each diode with a MPPT device, the on-off response to performance mismatch is eliminated; every cell-string contributes maximum power without interfering with the power production capability of others. This enhanced degree of flexibility leads to increased energy production; eliminating collateral performance loss due to module mismatch, degradation, soiling, localized shading, and row shading loss mechanisms.

Solar Panels Gain 30% Additional Power with Maxim's Cell-String Optimizer Solar Panels Gain 30% Additional Power with Maxim's Cell-String Optimizer

Based on the company's industry leading power semiconductor technology, Maxim's cell-string optimizer is the first integrated power IC to perform MPPT and first to be embedded within the PV module.

Key Advantages

  • Increases Energy Harvest:
    Offers best-in-class shade mitigation, providing 30% additional power over diodes
     
  • Extends Reliability:
    Eliminates hotspots and minimizes the impact of power degradation mechanisms
     
  • Enables Flexible Design:
    Higher degree of flexibility to incorporate multiple string lengths, multiple orientations, and expanding modules into partially shaded areas
     
  • Simplifies Operation:
    Fully integrated solution simplifies design by requiring no additional hardware, specialized inverters, or data services

The solar cell optimizer MPPT function works alongside the inverter MPPT to ensure the system output is optimal under any environmental conditions. Maxim's cell-string optimizers will be featured in partner booths at Solar Power International (SPI), September 12-15. SPI attendees can learn more about Maxim's high-performance, cost-efficient solar cell optimizer technology by visiting the following exhibitors: JinkoSolar, Booth 2007; ET Solar, Booth 1371; Fronius, Booth 1521; Hanwha Q CELLS, Booth 2337; Suntech, Booth 1335; Trina Solar, Booth 1511.

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