Kipp & Zonen SMP10x and SMP22x Solar Irradiance Sensors – The Gold Standard in Energy Measurement
Accurately monitoring solar irradiance intensity is a vital factor in evaluating the performance of any solar power plant. In the premium meteorological measurement segment, the SMP10x and SMP22x Pyranometer series from Kipp & Zonen (part of the OTT HydroMet group) has always been the top choice among experts.
This pair of digital sensors is now officially distributed by XBSolar – one of the top 4 leading solar equipment distributors in Vietnam, delivering an irradiance monitoring solution of absolute precision for SCADA systems and weather stations.
1. Meeting the Strictest Standards: ISO 9060 and IEC 61724-1 Class A
Both the SMP10x and SMP22x models are designed to pass the most rigorous technical tests. The devices are certified Spectrally Flat Class A under the ISO 9060:2018 standard and fully comply with the IEC 61724-1:2021 solar power measurement standard.
With a maximum irradiance measurement threshold of up to 4000W/m², the sensor captures flawless data even under the most intense convergent irradiance conditions. The spectrally flat measurement capability of the thermopile sensor platform eliminates errors caused by spectral variation in sunlight.
2. Device Health Monitoring Technology & 10-Year Lifespan
The slow ingress of moisture (thermal breathing) and the effects of UV rays over time are the main causes of reduced accuracy in outdoor sensors. Kipp & Zonen has thoroughly addressed this issue by equipping the radiation-receiving membrane with an ultra-durable black coating.
In addition, the device integrates an extra-large desiccant chamber with a lifespan of over 10 years. The breakthrough lies in its internal environmental sensor system: the device automatically monitors the humidity range (0 to 100%) and temperature inside the housing, reporting the “health” status of the desiccant through monitoring software. O&M operators no longer need to climb up and remove the device to manually check the desiccant, as was required with older generations.
3. Professional RS-485 Modbus Digital Communication
Perfectly suited to the digital era, both the SMP10x and SMP22x output signals directly via the RS-485 Modbus® protocol. The digitized signal range spans from -400 to 2000W/m, ensuring data transmission to the data logger or SCADA system over long distances without signal loss or electromagnetic interference. The device operates stably with an extremely flexible power supply from 5-30VDC and ultra-low power consumption of just 60mW.
The included SmartExplorer Windows software allows users to easily configure, test, and log data directly on a computer.
4. The Difference Between the SMP10x and the Flagship SMP22x
While sharing the same technical platform and an IP67-rated waterproof aluminum alloy housing, these two versions are positioned for different levels of requirements:
- SMP10x: A product line delivering stable irradiance measurements, trusted for commercial-scale use worldwide. The device has a spectral range (at the 50% point) from 285 to 2800nm, with a zero-offset error due to thermal radiation of under ±7W/m².
- SMP22x: Recognized as the most accurate Pyranometer currently available on the market. Its special quartz element expands the spectral range from 250 to 3500nm, pushing the zero-offset error down to an extremely low level of under ±5W/m². The SMP22x’s directional response is only <±5W/m², outperforming the SMP10x’s <±10W/m².
| Technical Specification | SMP10x | SMP22x |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 9060:2018 Classification | Spectrally Flat Class A | Spectrally Flat Class A |
| Maximum irradiance intensity | 4000W/m² | 4000W/m² |
| Spectral range (50%) | 285 to 2800nm | 250 to 3500nm |
| Non-linearity error (100 – 1000W/m²) | < ±0.2% | < ±0.2% |
| Data output protocol | RS-485 Modbus® | RS-485 Modbus® |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to +80°C | -40°C to +80°C |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Height) | 150×92.5mm | 150×92.5mm |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Kipp & Zonen Irradiance Sensor
What warranty does Kipp & Zonen offer on this product?
All Kipp & Zonen pyranometers ship with a default performance warranty commitment of up to 5 years. The device maintains excellent stability, with a change of only < ±0.5% after 5 years of operation.
Is the sensor suitable for Vietnam’s hot and humid climate?
The sensor is built to the IP67 waterproof standard and performs flawlessly across an extreme temperature range of -40°C to +80°C. The integrated desiccant system, with a lifespan of over 10 years, actively eliminates all moisture that enters the glass dome chamber.
What signal cable lengths can I choose during installation?
The signal cable system is available in flexible length options including 10m, 25m, 50m, or 100m to best suit the installation elevation of the weather station at your project site.
Invest in Measurement Equipment That Matches Your Ambitions with XBSolar
The Kipp & Zonen SMP10x and SMP22x irradiance sensors are the perfect solution for solar power plants, meteorological networks, and material research stations. XBSolar, as one of the top 4 distributors in Vietnam, is committed to providing genuine equipment with full CO/CQ documentation and international calibration certificates.
Contact the XBSolar technical team today to get a design for integrating RS-485 Modbus into your SCADA system!
