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Inspired by Mars

Published in: Solar, Talking Point, Exclusive Articles

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Atonometrics was founded in Austin, Texas, in 2007, with the mission to provide high-quality test and measurement equipment to the small but growing photovoltaics industry. The company founders came from a long background in test and measurement equipment for the semiconductor industry. The experience of the management team included over 30 years of R&D, product development, sales, marketing, and manufacturing.

The company's first products included light soaking systems and IV measurement systems for PV module manufacturers and test labs. These products have been installed in factories and labs worldwide.

This experience in the PV industry led the company to develop products for operational PV plants. The company's first soiling measurement system was introduced in 2010 and that product was followed by calibrated reference cells for cost-effective irradiance measurements.

Soiling: the accumulation of dust and other contaminants is a significant concern for photovoltaic (PV) solar power plants. Soiling affects solar power generation by blocking sunlight from getting to the solar panels. It causes worldwide solar industry power losses of 4 to 7%, with corresponding revenue loss in the multibillion-dollar range. And some locations, such as the Middle East, can experience soiling losses of 50% or more during dust storms.

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