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SB3662
OVERVIEW
Silicon photodiode pyranometer measuring global horizontal irradiance from 0–1,500 W/m². Cosine-corrected response, IP67 waterproof, and <1 second response time.
CAPABILITIES
Silicon photodiode with 300–1,100 nm spectral range
0–1,500 W/m² measurement range with 1 W/m² resolution
Cosine-corrected response for accurate angular measurement
Instant <1 second response time
IP67 waterproof with compact 30 × 30 mm form factor
M8 connector for plug-in integration
SPECIFICATIONS
| Technology | Silicon Photodiode |
| Spectral Range | 300 to 1100 nm |
| Measurement Range | 0 to 1500 W/m² |
| Resolution | 1 W/m² |
| Accuracy | +/- 5% |
| Response Time | <1 second |
| Interface | M8 connector |
| Operating Temperature | -40 to +80 C |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 |
| Dimensions | 30 x 30 mm |
Solar radiation is the energy source driving photochemical reactions, thermal effects, and atmospheric dynamics — making it a key parameter for air quality interpretation, building energy analysis, and environmental research. The Sensorbee Pyranometer measures global horizontal irradiance (GHI) from 0 to 1,500 W/m² using a silicon photodiode with cosine-corrected response, providing accurate solar radiation data with sub-second response time in a compact, IP67-rated package that connects to the Air Pro 2 and Air Lite platforms via the M8 interface.
The pyranometer uses a silicon photodiode detector sensitive to wavelengths from 300 to 1,100 nm — spanning ultraviolet B through the near-infrared, which captures the vast majority of solar energy reaching the Earth's surface. The photodiode generates an electrical current proportional to the incident solar radiation intensity, which the sensor electronics convert to an irradiance reading in watts per square metre (W/m²).
Cosine correction is a critical feature of accurate pyranometry. Solar radiation arriving at an angle to the sensor surface should be measured at its true intensity — which decreases with the cosine of the angle of incidence. An ideal pyranometer perfectly follows this cosine response curve, measuring full intensity for overhead sunlight and proportionally reduced intensity for low-angle sunlight. The Sensorbee pyranometer incorporates cosine-corrected optics to ensure accurate measurement regardless of the sun's position in the sky.
The sub-second response time means the sensor captures rapid changes in irradiance caused by passing clouds — important for understanding the variability of solar radiation that affects both photochemical processes and solar energy applications.
Solar irradiance data supports environmental monitoring in several ways:
The pyranometer measures from 0 to 1,500 W/m² with 1 W/m² resolution and ±5% accuracy. The 1,500 W/m² upper range exceeds the maximum clear-sky irradiance at sea level (approximately 1,000–1,100 W/m²), providing headroom for the irradiance enhancement that occurs when direct sun and reflected cloud edge radiation combine.
The 300–1,100 nm spectral range captures the solar spectrum where energy content is highest, from the UV-B band through visible light to the near-infrared. While this range does not extend to the full solar spectrum (which continues beyond 2,500 nm), silicon photodiode pyranometers provide an excellent balance of spectral coverage, response linearity, and cost-effectiveness for environmental monitoring applications.
At just 30 × 30 mm, the pyranometer is the most compact sensor in the Sensorbee weather sensor range. The IP67 waterproof rating and -40 to +80°C operating range ensure reliable operation across all weather conditions and climatic zones. The small form factor and M8 connector simplify mounting and integration — the sensor adds minimal weight and wind loading to monitoring station masts.
The pyranometer connects to the Air Pro 2 and Air Lite via the M8 interface. Solar radiation data is logged alongside all other environmental parameters and transmitted to the Sensorbee Cloud.
For a complete environmental and meteorological monitoring capability, the pyranometer complements:
On the Sensorbee Cloud, solar radiation data can be visualised alongside air quality measurements, enabling time-series analysis of photochemical relationships — for example, plotting ozone concentration against cumulative daily irradiance to characterise the photochemical ozone formation potential at a monitoring site.
Mount the pyranometer on a horizontal surface with an unobstructed view of the sky hemisphere. The sensor must be level — even small deviations from horizontal introduce systematic measurement errors, particularly at low solar elevations. Avoid mounting positions where buildings, masts, trees, or other structures shade the sensor at any time of day or year.
The M8 connector cable routes to the Air Pro 2 or Air Lite base station. No calibration, orientation alignment, or software configuration is required at the deployment site.
Maintain the sensor by periodically cleaning the optical surface — dust, bird droppings, and condensation residue on the photodiode reduce measured irradiance. A soft cloth and clean water are sufficient; avoid abrasive cleaning materials that could damage the cosine-corrected optics.
GHI is the total amount of solar radiation received on a horizontal surface. It includes direct beam radiation from the sun, diffuse radiation scattered by the atmosphere and clouds, and reflected radiation from the ground and surroundings. GHI is the standard measurement for characterising the solar resource at a location.
Thermopile pyranometers (ISO 9060 First Class and Secondary Standard) offer wider spectral response (typically 300–2,800 nm) and higher accuracy, but are significantly more expensive. Silicon photodiode pyranometers like the Sensorbee sensor provide excellent performance for environmental monitoring at a fraction of the cost, with the faster response time being an advantage for capturing cloud-induced irradiance variability.
The pyranometer measures whatever solar radiation is present — including reduced irradiance under cloud cover. Overcast conditions typically produce 50–200 W/m², partly cloudy conditions produce highly variable readings, and clear skies produce the maximum irradiance for that time of year and latitude.
Periodic cleaning of the optical surface is recommended — monthly in dusty environments, less frequently in clean environments. Contamination of the sensor surface systematically reduces measured irradiance, potentially biasing long-term datasets.
The pyranometer is designed for horizontal (GHI) measurement. Mounting on a tilted surface measures the irradiance on that specific plane, which can be useful for solar panel performance assessment. However, the cosine correction is optimised for horizontal mounting; tilted measurements should be interpreted with this in mind.
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