This is a compatible monitor for thermopile detectors. A computer is required to visualize measurements. Display measurement software that shows total broadband power (W) and power density (W/cm²) is included. Since software is written in Labview, the user can add data manipulation algorithms in LabView (like displaying in solar constants) instead. This computer interface unit is designed to work with both the 15W and 30W thermopile detector heads. Since the electronic readout is the same in both heads, there is no additional digits or precision gained using the 15W model over the 30W model. This computer interface unit reads out the same number of digits regardless of the detector head attached to it via the DB15 connector cable.
 
Calibrated Data Shown
Each detector head is individually calibrated, and the adjustment coefficient is stated in the NIST calibration certificate provided. The coefficient is also stored in the detector head and provided to the computer interface unit via the DB15 cable connector. The computer interface unit can compute the power reading using this coefficient such that it shows calibrated data.
 
Spectral Wavelength Sensitivity Curve
Since this detector is a broadband detector, the NIST calibration certificate only certifies broadband measurements. However, a measured spectral wavelength sensitivity curve for that particular detector unit is available at extra cost.
 
Total Power and Power Density Readings
The software that comes with this computer interface unit only shows total power in W and power density in W/cm². Being a Labview based program, it is possible for the user to compute the power density values in Solar Constants or any other units within Labview.
 
Computer Interface
This display controller allows for either USB or RS-232 connection to a computer. A Labview based software with Windows driver that reads the NIST calibrated power data from the detector head is included. Please note that the software displays power density in W/cm² as well as total power in W. However, being a Labview based program, it is possible for the user to compute the power density in other units like Solar Constants within Labview. Alternatively, the user can also read raw uncalibrated millivolt values from the display controller or computer interface. A manual provides the ASCII RS-232/USB commands used to read in these values. In this case, the user also has to multiply the raw readout values (in millivolts) by the calibration coefficient factor that is provided in the NIST Calibration certificate to determine total power in watts.