Stand-Alone Data Logger for Solar Panel Energy System with RTC and SD Card

In this research stand-alone data logger device that can be used for measuring solar panel power characteristics is introduced. With RTC and SD Card installed on the device, the energy produced by solar panel is measured, then data are stored in CSV format that is compatible with MS Excel. Stand-alone feature makes it suitable for monitoring solar panel systems installed on remote area. Research result exhibits that all device sub systems are working perfectly. Voltage sensor convert the output voltage range of solar panel 0-24V to suitable voltage for microcontroller 0-5V. Real Time Clock (RTC) is able to show real time hours, minute and seconds of every measurements. Current sensor could measure the current with similar result compared to standard lab instruments. Despite data stored to SD Card, a 16&2 LCD display real time measurement results. Overall, the device works very well as if standard data logger instrument, but featuring real time monitoring and computer compatibility data.