Welcome to the training module on Solar Bit Evaluation Boards from IXYS Colorado .
This training module will give an overview of different Evaluation Boards of SolarBIT
IXOLAR TM SolarBITs are IXYS’ product line of coated mono-crystalline, high efficiency solar cell products using IXYS’ XOD17 bondable solar cell dies. SolarBITs have reflow solderable surface mount packages, they are available in tape and reel packages and can be automatically pick and place mounted. There are 3 different SolarBITs available with different voltage and current output. It can be used in various applications like Battery chargers for portables such as cell,phones, PDAs, GPS-Systems, “Green” electricity generation, Power backup for UPS, Sensors, Wearables.
With a cell efficiency of typically 17%, SolarBITs give the ability to extend run time even in "low light“ conditions and increase battery life and run time in a small footprint, which can be easily accommodated in the design of Portable Products. IXOLARTM products have a very good response over a wide wavelength range and therefore can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications
The EVIX-LED evaluation board demonstrates this concept using a high brightness white LED power source. It works with Solar Bits connected in series to charge a supercapacitor to 5 V. Pressing the pushbutton illuminates the LED with 1A constant current. The super capacitor provides enough capacity for a surprisingly long burst of light without using batteries. XOB17-12x1 SolarBITs are monocrystalline, high-efficiency solar cells in a surface mount package that can be reflow soldered. They’re extremely robust and can be used in harsh environments
This page shows Schematic of the EVIX-LED board. Ten series-connected SolarBITs convert sunlight to a current that charges a super capacitor to 5V. A buck/ boost converter uses the energy stored in the supercap to drive the LED with a constant current of 1A for several seconds, even as the voltage across the supercap decreases below the LED’s forward voltage requirement. SolarBITs have a very high (17%) power conversion efficiency, which means that 17% of the light energy is converted into electrical energy.
The EVIX-USB Evaluation Board uses IXOLAR Bits, rechargeable AA alkaline cells, and a DC/DC converter to generate a regulated +5V output that can operate or charge USB appliances. The AA cells will charge any time the Solar Bits are exposed to daylight. Move the push-on jumper from OFF to ON to operate the converter and generate +5V.
Eight series-connected SolarBITs convert sunlight to current and charge four AA cells connected in series/parallel for 3V. The converter IC boosts the battery voltage to +5V, available via a USB Series A receptacle and a screw terminal block. XOB17-12x1 SolarBITs are monocrystalline, high-efficiency solar cells in a surface mount package that can be reflow soldered.
The EVIX-10 is a two-layer, 3.5-inch by 4-inch PC board created for easy and flexible evaluation of the IXYS XOB17-12x1 SolarBIT product. Each SolarBIT is connected to a 6-pin header. Using the included push-on shunts, the user can arrange the ten SolarBITs into various series/parallel combinations. To achieve maximum current, for example, all ten SolarBITs can be connected in parallel to yield 0.5 V at 400 mA. For maximum voltage, all ten SolarBITs can be connected in series to yield 5 V at 40 mA.
XOB17-12x1 SolarBITs are monocrystalline, high-efficiency solar cells in a surface mount package that can be reflow soldered. A Schottky diode isolates the Solar Bit array from those on other boards and allows experiments in battery charging. The user can install a push-on shunt to short the diode and eliminate its voltage drop. A 0.125-inch mounting hole is provided in each corner.
The EVIX-CX3AA solar charging evaluation board demonstrates several IXYS technologies in a simple solar charger for a single AA rechargable alkaline battery. The board contains three solar cells to provide charging power. A power MOSFET prevents the battery from discharging through the solar cell array during low light conditions when the solar array output voltage sinks below the battery voltage. A CPC1832N micro power solar cell turns the MOSFET on when light is present.
The small EVXOB17-12x1 Solar Bit Evaluation Board introduces the IXYS Solar Bit family and allows users to rapidly investigate the basics of solar energy in powering their circuit designs. It contains ten series connected Solar Bits for 5 V total output and provides plated through-hole connections to the (+) and (-) terminals of each Solar Bit at 0.5 V per Solar Bit. Maximum current is 40 mA.
Thank you for taking the time to view this presentation on “ Solar Bit Evaluation Boards ” . If you would like to learn more or go on to purchase some of these devices, you may either click on the part list link right beside the play button on the TechCast portal, or simply call our sales hotline. For more technical information you may either visit the IXYS Colorado site, or if you would prefer to speak to someone live, please call our hotline number, or even use our ‘live chat’ online facility. You may visit element14 e-community to post your questions.