Modeling solar cells for use as optical detectors: background illumination effects

Abstract

Solar cells have traditionally been used for direct sunlight to energy conversion, but there has been relatively little investigation into their use as a low data rate optical detector. This paper presents an experimental procedure used to determine the ac model of a specific solar cell. A lumped circuit model and governing equations are developed. Open circuit responses to pulses are used to determine values for the internal capacitances as a function of background illumination. Possible problems encountered with noise generation are also reviewed.