[RE-wrenches] Solmetric PVA-600

[Gary Willett]

KEITH:

"On the tech side- perhaps an iPad with the virtualization software 
could remedy the tablet issue? Might need a unique connector or maybe go 
wireless?"

The PVA600 requires a Solmetric USB dongle to communicate wirelessly 
with the test instrument, and a second USB dongle to communicate 
wirelessly with the remote temperature and irradiance sensors (if you 
purchased that option).

I don't have an iPad, and am unfamiliar with its ports. Does it have at 
least one USB? With a USB port, the iPad Windows virtualization software 
might work. If I were you, I'd contact Solmetric Tech Support and see if 
this is a supported (or at least functional) alternative to a Windows 
netbook/notebook.

Gary Willett, PE
Gary at IcarusSolarServices.com




My sense is this tool, at this price point of $4k is a good investment 
for various reasons.

1. Analytics- know right away what is right and what needs remedy.
2. Old systems- maintenance program- I always ponder how many circa late 
1990's to today systems that are operating at or below their originally 
projected performance. Its akin to fixing a leaky pipe.
3. Real world- objective data- you or the tech grabbing the data- it can 
be brought back to the shop and verified- as opposed to taking some 
measurements and writing them down on a piece of paper on the clipboard.

On the tech side- perhaps an iPad with the virtualization software could 
remedy the tablet issue? Might need a unique connector or maybe go wireless?


Keith


________________________________
From: Glenn Burt <glenn.burt at glbcc.com>
To: gary at icarussolarservices.com; 'RE-wrenches' <re-wrenches at 
lists.re-wrenches.org>
Sent: Sunday, July 31, 2011 8:07 AM
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solmetric PVA-600


Thanks Gary,
That is a bummer knowing the dearth of Windows tablets available. Seems 
like it would be a match made in heaven for real-time feedback.

I am having the same disappointment looking for a tablet (small & 
portable) to use when troubleshooting DAS systems. Hard to believe I am 
now complaining about having to carry my laptop everywhere to do so, but 
I want lighter & smaller! Not so easy to balance and work on your knee 
where inverters are typically installed.

*sigh*

-Glenn

From:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org 
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Gary 
Willett
Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2011 7:32 PM
To: re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solmetric PVA-600

GLENN: The PVA600 uses a Windows based application.

I have a MacBookPro that runs Windows 7 natively using the "Bootcamp" 
software that is bundled in with the Mac OS.

So unless your tablet can run Windows in either native of emulation 
mode, you're ( currently ) out of luck.

As with most manufacturers, customer demand probably drives Solmetric 
and the OS platforms on which the PVA600 software will run. Make your 
wishes for an Android version known to them.
Regards,


Gary Willett, PE
Gary at IcarusSolarServices.com

On 7/30/2011 9:47 AM, Glenn Burt wrote:
So the PVA-600 doesn’t require a Windows specific program to access the 
logging device?
This has been a question for me as most tablets now run Android OS and 
not a Microsoft product.
Is it just browser based perhaps?

Thanks!
Glenn Burt

From:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org 
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jesse 
Dahl
Sent: Friday, July 29, 2011 2:51 PM
To: Keith Cronin; RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solmetric PVA-600

I am using it right now. I really like it. It's great for storing 
records of array/module parameters. Helps with pinpointing trouble 
modules or strings. I have also used it to show customers what snow/dirt 
can do to a string. The same can be done with a meter of course. Only 
works up to 20A so limited off-grid use.

I started out using a laptop with it but have since switched to a tablet 
computer, it fits right in the front pocket and makes a nice little 
package.

Jesse

Sent from my iPhone

On Jul 29, 2011, at 12:56 PM, Keith Cronin <electrichi01 at yahoo.com> 
wrote:
Any wrenches using this tool?
 >
 >If so, feedback?
 >
 >http://www.solmetric.com/pva600.html
 >
 >Bill- what is your take on its IV Curve measurement data?
 >
 >Perhaps its been a while, but I recall your tested was in the $20k 
cost zone?
 >
 >This seems like a reasonable tool to have and all of the benefits of 
commissioning plus being able to quickly identify challenges.
 >
 >It also seems to provide a glimpse into the future of mod manu's 
products and their efficacy over time.
 >
 >Aloha,
 >Keith
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