SR11 Pyranometer
4
6. Installation
6.1 Siting Considerations
The SR11 is usually installed horizontally, but can also be installed at any
angle including an inverted position. In all cases, it will measure the flux that is
incident on the surface that is parallel to the sensor surface.
Site the SR11 to allow easy access for maintenance while ideally avoiding any
obstructions above the plane of the sensing element. Mount the SR11 such that
no shadow or reflection will not be cast on it at any time. If this is not possible,
try to choose a site where any obstruction over the azimuth range between
earliest sunrise and latest sunset has an elevation not exceeding 5°. Diffuse
solar radiation is less influenced by obstructions near the horizon. For instance,
an obstruction with an elevation of 5° over the whole azimuth range of 360°
decreases the downward diffuse solar radiation by only 0.8%.
The sensor should be mounted with the cable pointing towards the nearest
magnetic pole. For example, in the northern hemisphere, point the cable toward
the North Pole.
6.2 Mounting
The following mounting procedure is for mounting the sensor horizontally
using a CM225 Solar Sensor Mounting Stand. Alternatively, the sensor can be
mounted at an angle by using a CM255 or CM255LS adjustable-angle mount,
or mounted near the end cap of the NexTracker torque tube by using a CM265
Adjustable Solar Sensor Mounting Kit (see the
CM255LS, and CS265 Solar Radiation Sensor Mounts Manual
).
6.2.1 Required Tools
Tools required for installation on a tripod or tower:
Small and medium Phillips screwdrivers
5/16 inch, 1/2 inch open end wrenches
5/32 inch Allen wrench
Tape measure
UV-resistant wire ties
Side-cut pliers
Compass
Step ladder
