LPS050P0 - Spectrally Flat Class B Albedometer
An albedometer is a measuring device that determines the albedo of a surface - that is, the proportion of incoming solar radiation that is reflected by that surface. An albedometer typically consists of two pyranometers (sensors for measuring global radiation):
- an upward-facing measuring surface that measures the incoming radiation from the sun and the sky,
- a downward-facing measuring surface that measures the radiation reflected from the Earth's surface.
The device compares the reflected radiation with the incoming radiation. The quotient of this is the albedo (a value between 0 and 1):
- 0 = completely absorbing (black, no reflection)
- 1 = completely reflecting (e.g., fresh snow)
An albedometer measures how "bright" or "reflective" a surface is in sunlight.
Main applications:
- Climate research (Earth's energy balance)
- Glaciology (snow and ice albedo)
- Meteorology
- Agriculture (soil and plant reflectance)
- Solar energy (solar system efficiency calculations)
"Spectrally flat" means that the sensor measures evenly across a broad spectrum of solar radiation wavelengths. The sunlight that reaches Earth covers approximately the range from 300nm (UV) to 3000nm (infrared). A spectrally flat pyranometer responds linearly across this entire range, regardless of the colour or wavelength of the radiation. This is especially important for precise measurements according to ISO and WMO standards, since inexpensive silicon sensors only measure in the visible and near-IR and thus produce inaccurate results.
Pyranometers are classified according to ISO 9060:2018:
Class A (Secondary Standard) – highest accuracy
Class B (First Class) – medium accuracy
Class C (Second Class) – simple accuracy for general measurements
LPS050P0 is our new spectrally flat class B albedometer composed by 2 Class B Pyranometers: the perfect solution for precise and efficient measurement of surface reflectivity and solar radiation!
Picture this - two pyranometers, one mission - measuring global solar radiation from every angle. Our albedometers have thermopile sensors facing upwards and downwards, capturing both incident and reflected solar radiation. This means you get a comprehensive view of your solar data, allowing for unparalleled insights.
Our albedometer series doesn’t just meet standards; it sets them. The series also includes spectrally flat class A and class C albedometers. Fully compliant with ISO 9060:2018 and WMO’s “Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation,” these instruments redefine accuracy and reliability.
Moreover, they are calibrated individually as per the WRR standard, they are robust and reliable.
Our albedometers are not just accurate; they’re eco-friendly too. Totally passive, they don’t require any power supply. Simplify your setup - direct outputs from the electric signals of the pyranometers to your data logger or automatic data processor.
Built to withstand diverse environmental conditions, our Albedometers feature a robust and weather-resistant design. From scorching sunlight to challenging climates, it is built to deliver consistent performance.
To ease horizontal positioning during installation and grant accurate measurements.
Characteristics:
Robust housing
Rugged body designed to operate even at low temperatures without loss of accuracy.
Accurate and reliable
Supplied factory calibrated with individual calibration report ISO 17025 calibration certificate available upon request
Easy to setup & quick to install
ntegrated bubble level to ensure accurate installation in any position.
According to ISO standard
Follows recommendations of the WMO - fully compliant with ISO 9060:2018
Passive analog output
Nu power supply necessary. Output in mV values.
Main applications:
+ Photovoltaic monitoring
Measurement of global radiation to calculate the performance ratio and monitoring of small PV systems.
+ Energy yield forecasting
To determine the expected electricity production from solar energy.
+ Metereology - weather stations
Documentation of solar radiation for climate and agricultural applications.
+ General solar radiation measurements
+ Environmental studies
+ Research
Technical data:
Sensor: Thermopile
Typical sensitivity:6…15μV/Wm-2
Measuring range: -200…4000 W/m2
Viewing angle: 2π sr
Spectral range (50%): 283…2800nm
Output: passive in mV
Connection: 2 x 5-pole M12 connectors
Dimensions:
Total height: 170mm
Shield diameter: 160mm
Weight: 1.4kg approx.
Operating conditions: -40…+80°C; 0…100%RH
Bubble level accuracy: <0.2°
Protection degree: IP67
Materials: Housing: Anodized aluminium
Screen: ASA
Dome: Optical glass
MTBF >10 years
The Albedometers are supplied with two female M12 free connectors, a solar radiation reflection screen, mast fixing support and calibration certificate.
The connection cables and fixing accessories have to be ordered separately.
Optional accessories:
CPM12-5… Cable with 5-pole M12 connector on one end, open wires on the other end.
Length 5m (CPM12-5.5) or 10m (CPM12-5.10).
