IVS-KA6000 Perovskite Solar Cell Measuring & Analysis Software

Software Features Introduction

The IV software developed by Enlitech is a pioneer in the perovskite and organic solar cell industry, implementing numerous important features, including:

1. Forward and Reverse IV Scan Functionality: Automatically executes forward and reverse IV scans, saving setup time and improving research efficiency. 
2. Scan Voltage Increase Rate Control: Adjusts scanning rates to help analyze perovskite solar cell material systems and hysteresis effects in depth.
3. IT Monitor Tool (I-t, V-t, MPPT Tracking): Real-time current change recording for evaluating cell stability, supporting long-term stability tests and dark current monitoring.
4. Single Sample Multi-Sub-cell Automatic Testing: Supports multi-channel automatic measurement, compatible with 32-channel automatic multiplexer, significantly improving experimental efficiency and accuracy.
5. Light Soaking and MPPT Test Tools: Supports fixed voltage mode and VM optimal voltage mode, capable of executing automated, timed IV measurements.
6. IEC International Standard Compliant Correction: Provides temperature coefficient correction, irradiance correction, and MMF (mismatch factor) correction, making test data more reliable and authentic.
7. Automatic Variable Light Intensity Measurement: Supports multi-level light intensity automatic control, suitable for light intensity dependence, Voc loss mechanism analysis, and low-light performance evaluation.
8. NREL Asymptotic Detection: For perovskite and thin-film solar cells, uses time-approaching method to improve measurement accuracy, effectively resolving hysteresis and transient effect interference.
9. Integrated Functional Measurement – Light Source & Timing Control: Provides non-continuous illumination design and dual delay settings, preventing continuous heating from causing cell parameter drift.
10. Dual-stage Range Setting: Combines fast initial scan with high-precision secondary scan, balancing efficiency and accuracy.
11. IV Curve Automatic Overlay and Comparison: Quickly compares different measurement results for visual difference analysis.
12. Rapid Statistical Function: Performs real-time calculations on multiple IV curves, providing average value statistics for key parameters.
13. Optimal Spectrum Automatic Configuration Function (IVS-KA7000 Exclusive): Combines three dedicated reference cells, automatically calculates and adjusts light source configuration to achieve ideal spectral matching.

1. Forward and Reverse IV Scan Functionality:

Traditionally, detection conditions need to be set up separately twice. The reverse IV scan can begin, until the forward IV scan condition setup, forward IV scan test, and reverse IV scan condition setup are completed in sequence. Furthermore, after completing all tests, two separate IV curves need to be manually drawn. The traditional method is very time-consuming.

Enlitech is the first IV software supplier to implement automatic forward and reverse IV scan functionality. By 2015, the previous generation IVS-KA5000 had already implemented these features. Moreover, more than 100 laboratories developing high-efficiency solar cells have adopted the IVS-KA5000, helping users accelerate their power conversion efficiency (PCE) breakthroughs.

Different results of IV curves for forward and reverse scans observed for the same perovskite solar cell. The significant difference between the two curves represents different conversion efficiency results.

2. Scan-Voltage-Increase-Rate-Control:

The voltage increase rate affects the IV curve results of perovskite solar cells. Since 2016, rate control has become a standard feature of IVS-KA software. This control feature included with IVS-KA software can help users analyze perovskite solar cell material systems and hysteresis effects in depth.

IV curve results of perovskite solar cells under different scan voltage increase rate conditions.
(Source: The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters)

3. IT Monitor Tool (I-t, V-t, MPPT Tracking Function):

IVS-KA6000 provides the IT Monitor function, which can record and observe current changes in real-time under fixed voltage conditions, used to evaluate the stability performance of cells or light sources under specific conditions.

• Real-time Current Recording: Can record current changes during long-term observation, evaluating cell stability or detecting light source output fluctuations.
• Manual Voltage Adjustment with Immediate Effect: During the measurement process, users can manually adjust the applied voltage in real-time, which is immediately reflected in the current output, flexibly addressing different test requirements.
• Preset Conditions Commonly Used for 0V Monitoring: Common applications are at 0V conditions, though voltage can also be dynamically adjusted for special requirements.

This function is particularly suitable for long-term stability testing, dark current monitoring, or verifying whether the test environment (such as the light source) has output drift.

The IT Monitor function is used to monitor the transient current of a single solar cell. In addition, IVS-KA6000 also integrates voltage time-related monitoring functions (Vt) and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) functions. It will become a convenient tool for users researching the stability of new solar cells such as perovskite or organic cells.

IVS-KA6000 has implemented many time tracking functions, including I-t, V-t, and MPPT. IVS-KA6000 will be a powerful and convenient tool for users and researchers. (Source: Nano Energy)

IT (Current versus Time) Monitoring Tool

4. Single Sample Multi-Sub-cell Automatic Testing:

As efficiency research develops, everyone values the authenticity and repeatability of solar cell improvements with different manufacturing processes. Providing statistical data on experimental results is an effective way to confirm reality, as shown below. To obtain statistical data, a large number of solar cells will be tested, generating repeated detections. If automatic detection of single sample multi-subcells is achieved, it will greatly improve laboratory research and efficiency, thereby accelerating paper publication speed.

PCE efficiency distribution of 23.3% perovskite solar cells with different manufacturing processes, published in Nature Photonics. To obtain this statistical distribution, IV detection and PCE analysis were performed on two independent groups (experimental and control groups). The figure demonstrates the overall reproducibility of experimental results and the authenticity of the data.

Multi-channel Automatic Switching Measurement Function (Auto Switch Box Required)

Supports multi-channel measurement mode, allowing switching between single-channel or multi-channel operation according to needs, suitable for experimental applications requiring simultaneous monitoring of multiple solar cells.

• Automatic Channel Switching: Paired with the optional switch box, automatically controls the measurement sequence of each channel, eliminating the need for manual switching, improving experimental efficiency and accuracy.
• Multi-point Synchronous Monitoring: Can complete IV measurement of multiple channels at once, saving significant testing time, especially suitable for stability or aging tests requiring long-term observation.

IVS-KA6000 can not only integrate the original 8-channel four-wire multiplexer produced by Enlitech but also support a 32-channel automatic multiplexer. It can automatically switch and test 32 independent subcells without the need to switch and reconnect cables, greatly shortening the user’s testing time. Additionally, it reduces possible human detection errors.

Integrated Auto-switch box and test fixtures for automatic multi-channel detection.

IVS-KA6000 Single Sample Multi-Sub-cell Automatic Test: Channel setup screen.

IVS-KA6000 Single Sample Multi-Sub-cell Automatic Test.

5. Light Soaking and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) Test Tools:

IVS-KA6000 has multiple powerful testing tools, such as light soaking (MPPT) test tools, current and voltage monitoring. These help users perform automated, fixed-time IV measurements of solar cells.

Through automated settings, users can execute IV curve measurements at fixed time points, eliminating tedious manual operations and significantly improving test efficiency and stability.

Dual-mode MPPT Function (Default Off)

Supports two maximum power tracking modes: Fixed Voltage Mode and VM Optimal Voltage Mode, flexibly adjustable according to usage scenarios.

• Fixed Voltage Mode: Can be set to periodically execute IV measurements automatically by KA6000, without manual triggering.
• VM Mode: The software regularly updates IV data and optimal operating voltage, with the SMU automatically adjusting output voltage based on update results to maintain the most suitable power point.

High-frequency Data Collection and Trend Analysis

Measurement intervals can be set to execute repeatedly in a short time, generating a large amount of IV data. All measurement results can be automatically stored in project files and imported into KA-Viewer for in-depth analysis, observing parameter trends over time, and mastering the long-term performance of cells.

IVS-KA6000 Single Sample Multi-Sub-cell Automatic Test.

Result data of the light soaking (MPPT) detection.

6. IEC International Standard Compliant Correction Functions:

IEC standards define Standard Test Conditions (STC), namely irradiation spectrum AM1.5G, light intensity 1000W/m^2, and solar cell temperature 25°C.

IVS-KA6000 provides temperature coefficient correction, irradiance correction, and MMF (mismatch factor) correction, making it easy to compare characteristics of different cells. These correction functions can make test data more realistic and reliable, beneficial for research project development or journal publication.

IVS-KA6000 can immediately perform MMF or temperature coefficient correction through an easy-to-use operating interface.

7. Automatic Variable Light Intensity Measurement Function:

IVS-KA6000 supports multi-level light intensity automatic control. After completing light source calibration, users can freely set the light intensity conditions required for testing, and the system will automatically adjust the light source output and complete measurements in sequence.

• Intuitive Light Intensity Units: Expressed in solar light intensity standards (such as 1 sun, 0.2 sun, 0.1 sun), convenient for corresponding to actual application scenarios.
• Custom Light Intensity Sequence: Users can preset multiple target light intensities, and the software will automatically execute light intensity adjustment and corresponding IV curve measurement.
• Fully Automated Process: No need for manual light source adjustment, reducing operation errors and time waste, improving test consistency and efficiency.
• Data Visualization and Subsequent Analysis: IV data at various light intensities can be stored and imported into analysis tools for further research on efficiency trends, light dependence, etc.

This function is particularly suitable for researching Light Intensity Dependence, Voc loss mechanism analysis, and low-light performance evaluation applications.

Integrated with the SS-X Solar Simulator, it can control different test procedures, such as light intensity-related tests or light on/off delay control.

Enlitech IVS-KA6000 supports popular SMUs (please refer to the supported SMUs below), SS-X Solar Simulator, or Auto-Switch Box. The integration of these instruments can be used for complex detections. For example:

IV curves of solar cells under different irradiance intensities through light intensity-related detection combining IVS-KA6000 with SS-X Solar Simulator.

8. NREL Asymptotic Detection:

After completing IV curve measurement, further detailed stability analysis can be performed on specific curves, particularly suitable for perovskite and thin-film solar cells, effectively addressing their common hysteresis effects and transient interference.

Resolving Hysteresis and Transient Effect Interference

For these types of cells, current response after voltage application is often not immediately stable, with stabilization time varying depending on cell structure and materials. Direct measurement can lead to data deviations due to transient phenomena.

Time-Approaching Method Improves Accuracy

The Asymptotic measurement method continuously observes current changes at fixed voltage, extending measurement time to avoid initial unstable states, obtaining accurate data after approaching stabilization, effectively enhancing test reliability and reproducibility.

For detailed information about the NREL asymptotic detection procedure, please contact us anytime for more information or demonstrations.

9. Integrated Functional Measurement – Light Source & Timing Control:

Precise Light Control and Delay Settings, Effectively Avoiding Transient Effect Interference

In the measurement of perovskite and thin-film solar cells, transient effects are one source of data errors. We integrate light source control and delay timing settings to solve this problem fundamentally.

• Non-continuous Illumination Design: After enabling Light Measurement mode, the light source only automatically starts during measurement and otherwise remains off, avoiding continuous heating that causes cell parameter drift.
• IV Delay and Bias Delay Dual Delay Settings:
  1. IV Delay: Can set the waiting time after light exposure or voltage application, allowing current response to enter the stable period before starting measurement.
  2. Bias Delay: Working with Shutter control, allowing users to customize delay time, further eliminating unstable interference from initial light response.

Avoiding premature measurement and eliminating transient errors, obtaining more stable and reliable IV data.

10. Dual-stage Range Setting:

Intelligent Measurement Design Balancing Efficiency and Precision

In IV testing, current change amplitudes differ across segments. Using fixed settings to measure the entire curve can waste time in the initial segment (small current changes) while failing to obtain sufficiently detailed data in the latter segment (near Pmax). IVS-KA6000 provides dual-stage measurement functionality, designing different measurement strategies for different segments, effectively improving overall efficiency and Pmax precision.

• Initial Fast Scan: For the initial region where current changes are gradual, using larger steps for rapid scanning, saving significant measurement time.
• Secondary High-precision Scan: When entering the rapid current rise region and near Pmax, automatically switching to fine-step high-resolution scanning, precisely capturing the maximum power point position and IV curve details.
• Reduced Unnecessary Measurement Delay: The delay for each measurement point can be set by the user. The dual-stage strategy can avoid spending time in areas not requiring high precision, effectively improving overall test efficiency.

This function is particularly suitable for research and development application scenarios requiring high precision for Pmax values, such as efficiency optimization and performance enhancement assessment.

11. IV Curve Automatic Overlay and Comparison Function:

IVS-KA6000 has a built-in IV curve overlay function that helps users quickly compare different measurement results, clearly grasping change trends and abnormal conditions.

• One-click Rapid Measurement: Users can press “Start” at any time to immediately execute IV measurement, with data automatically stored in the tab bar at the bottom of the interface.
• Flexible Overlay Selection: Users can freely select any curves from previous measurement results for overlay comparison.
• Visual Difference Analysis: The overlay function clearly shows changes between curves, helping to identify sample performance variations under different conditions, such as light intensity changes, aging effects, etc.

This function is particularly suitable for experimental condition variation comparison, sample performance degradation tracking, and batch consistency analysis application scenarios.

12. Quick Statistical Function: Real-time Parameter Trend Monitoring

IVS-KA6000 provides a quick statistical tool that can perform real-time calculations on multiple IV curves selected by users, quickly yielding average parameters and change trends.

• Real-time Statistical Calculation: After selecting multiple IV curves for analysis, the system automatically calculates average values of key parameters such as Voc, Jsc, Pmax, and FF.
• Simple Operation: No need for additional calculations or Excel export; analysis results can be obtained immediately.
• Quick Sample Performance Assessment: Helps users quickly grasp overall sample quality or test batch consistency.

This function is particularly suitable for sample screening, before-and-after aging comparison, or overall trend analysis after multi-channel measurement.

13. Optimal Spectrum Automatic Configuration Function (IVS-KA7000 Exclusive):

IVS-KA7000’s exclusive Auto Match spectrum optimization function can combine three dedicated reference cells, automatically calculate and adjust the light source configuration, helping users quickly achieve output effects closest to the ideal spectrum.

• Combined with Three Reference Cells: Using KG3, BL7, and Quartz standard spectral response cells as calibration references.
• Intelligent Auto Match Guidance: The software provides step-by-step guidance; users only need to follow the prompts to complete the spectrum optimization process.
• Automatic Parameter Combination Recommendation: The system automatically calculates the most suitable Ray Angle, IRIS aperture size, and optimal operating output conditions for the simulator based on measurement results.
• Achieving Ideal Spectral Matching: Can precisely adjust simulator output to make the experimental spectrum closer to the standard AM1.5G or specific research requirements, improving test accuracy and consistency.
• Integrated with High-Performance Light Source SS-PST: When paired with the Enlitech SS-PST solar simulator, the IVS-KA7000 can further maximize the effectiveness of the Auto Match function. The SS-PST series offers A++ spectral match quality and closely replicates the AM 1.5G standard solar spectrum, providing a stable and high-accuracy light source for experimental applications.

This function is particularly suitable for application scenarios requiring extremely high spectral precision, such as new solar material development, spectral sensitivity analysis, or cross-system result comparison calibration.