Phenomenon Description: After pressing the start button, the xenon lamp shows no response, or automatically shuts down a few seconds after triggering. In some instances, this is accompanied by repeated clicking sounds from internal power supply relays or flashing fault indicators. Root Cause Analysis: When a xenon lamp reaches its service lifespan (typically 1000-2000 hours), its internal resistance rises, making the trigger voltage insufficient; the high-voltage trigger module might be damaged or the high-voltage cable leaking electricity; an insufficient flow rate in the cooling fan or water-cooling system triggers temperature protection; or the lamp electrodes are severely eroded with a blackened bulb envelope. Troubleshooting Methods: Check the hour meter reading. If it approaches the nominal lifespan, replace the xenon lamp directly with the same model. Inspect whether the high-voltage trigger cable makes secure contact with the chassis (insulation resistance >100MΩ). Clean the cooling duct filters or check the water pump flow rate (target >2L/min). After replacement, execute the "aging procedure": preheat at low current for 15 minutes before gradually stepping up to high current.

Phenomenon Description: Under the same current setting, the irradiance value drops by over 15% compared to historical data, or the irradiance fluctuations during testing exceed Class A (±2%) limits as specified by IEC 60904-9. Root Cause Analysis: Xenon lamp aging leads to spectral attenuation (especially in UV and blue light bands); contamination on the surfaces of optical windows, mirrors, or integrators (dust, oil stains, high-temperature oxide films); power output current drift or feedback sampling failure; loose cable connections causing voltage drops. Troubleshooting Methods: Calibrate the testing plane using a standard cell and an irradiance meter. If values are uniformly low, prioritize cleaning the optical path: wipe optical windows and mirrors using absolute ethanol and lint-free cotton swabs (use specialized lens paper for soft mirror coatings). Verify the power supply: measure actual current at the load end using a clamp meter. If the deviation from the set value exceeds 2%, calibrate or replace the power supply module.

Phenomenon Description: When scanning the irradiance plane with a matrix detector, the variance between the center and edges exceeds ±5% (Class A requirement ≤2%), yielding poor repeatability when testing small-area solar cells. Root Cause Analysis: Displacement or localized damage to the optical integrator (light pipe or fly's eye lens); deformation or coating peeling on the ellipsoidal reflector; shift in the xenon lamp arc position (unequal erosion lengths of lamp electrodes); the testing plane is not parallel to the light outlet. Troubleshooting Methods: Inspect and tighten the integrator's fastening screws. Check the focal point position of the reflector using a collimator; if it deviates, finely tune the three-dimensional adjusting mount of the lamp holder. If uniform performance cannot be restored after cleaning, contact the manufacturer to replace the integrator (internal optical components must not be disassembled by users). Re-align the sample stage flatness using a laser level (error <0.2mm/m).

Phenomenon Description: When measured via a spectroradiometer, the spectral mismatch factors within certain intervals of the 400-1100nm band exceed standard limits (Class A ±25%, Class B ±40%). Testing results for monocrystalline silicon or perovskite solar cells deviate heavily from third-party data. Root Cause Analysis: Short-wavelength components decay severely after xenon lamp aging (especially 400-500nm); filter groups suffer moisture ingress or high-temperature fading; atmospheric ozone absorption (UV produced by the xenon lamp ionizes oxygen) alters short-wave spectra; or an off-brand, inferior xenon lamp is utilized. Troubleshooting Methods: Replace with a brand-new xenon lamp and execute a 20-hour aging run. Inspect whether filters are discolored or showing white spots, replacing the filter group if necessary. Introduce a high-transmission UV quartz window into the optical path and maintain good laboratory ventilation (reducing ozone concentration). Purchase original-matching xenon lamps from verified manufacturers (e.g., Osram, Hamamatsu). It is recommended to audit spectral match every 1000 hours.

Phenomenon Description: After working for 30-60 minutes, the equipment automatically cuts off the light source, and the controller displays "Overheat" or "Fan Fault". The temperature of the chassis enclosure and air outlet is noticeably higher than normal state. Root Cause Analysis: Axial fan bearings are worn out, leading to reduced rotational speed or stalling; air duct filters are severely clogged; water-cooled models have damaged circulation pumps or insufficient/deteriorated coolant; temperature sensors fail and give false alarms; ambient temperature is too high (>35°C), exceeding design margins. Troubleshooting Methods: Clean or replace the air inlet dust filter. Measure fan supply voltage using a multimeter (typically 24V DC or 220V AC); if normal, replace the fan. For water-cooled configurations, inspect the level gauge and add a mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol (1:1 ratio). Clean dust from condenser fins. If ambient temperature is excessive, install air conditioning or relocate the equipment to an air-conditioned room.

Want to Learn More About Solar Simulator Maintenance & Calibration Services?

We provide on-site fault diagnosis, annual calibration, xenon lamp replacement, and uniformity testing services for solar simulators

Hagorun Technology Limited  |  Focus · Dedication · Exploration · Vision