What is the difference between pyranometer and irradiance meter?

The pyranometer and irradiance meter are both instruments used for measuring solar radiation, but they differ in their measurement principles and applications.

The pyranometer is a device that measures the total solar radiation incident on a surface, including both direct sunlight and diffused (scattered) light. It is most commonly used in meteorology for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and solar energy research. Pyranometers are calibrated to provide accurate measurements of incident solar radiation and are often equipped with temperature sensors and other accessories to account for environmental effects.

On the other hand, the irradiance meter is a device that measures the intensity of solar radiation at a specific point in space or on a particular surface. It is used to measure the amount of solar energy incident on a given area, usually in the form of watts per square meter (W/m²). Irradiance meters are commonly used in solar energy research and applications, such as PV system design and performance evaluation, to determine the amount of power generated by solar cells or panels.

In summary, the pyranometer measures the total solar radiation incident on a surface, while the irradiance meter measures the intensity of solar radiation at a specific point in space or on a particular surface and is commonly used in solar energy research and applications.

Pyranometer Solar Radiation Sensors data sheet

NBL-W-HPRS-Solar-Radiation-Sensor-Instruction-Manual-V3.0.pdf

High-precision-radiation-sensor-NiuBoL.pdf