scope:

This Standard applies to terrestrial photovoltaic modules used for converting solar radiation into electric energy and is limited to module applications producing up to a maximum of 600 V.

This Standard covers modules capable of being tested independent units. It excludes modules incorporated in calculators, watches, toys, and other devices usually of low power.

This Standard is intended to apply to flat-plate encapsulated modules, it is not applicable to modules designed for operation In concentrated sunlight or to arrays embodying concentrators, or to thermal hybrid collectors.

This Standard covers the provisions to be made on the modules for mounting purposes but does not cover the actual installation or mounting in arrays.

This Standard covers mechanical and environ¬mental criteria as well as electrical performance, methods of test, and marking requirements relating to flat-plate photovoltaic modules.

Compliance of a module with this Standard may not completely define its suitability for an intended application. Specifically, this Standard

(a) does not define minimum values for the solar module's electrical efficiency; and

(b) defines the electrical performance testing procedures applicable to single modules but does not address the issue of photovoltaic array per¬formance.