Dear Ehsan,

The best way to measure the solar cell performance characteristics is to illuminate from quatz halogen lamp with variable intensity and measuring the I-V with a convectional

laboratory variable voltage power supply an DC ammeter and a DC voltmeter with the suitable measuring ranges. All what do you need is to add a series resistance to the solar cell to limit the cell current. Connect the power supply with positive polarity to the anode of the solar cell and then connect the cell in series with the resistance and the ammeter and then close the circuit by connecting the negative of the power supply to the ammeter. Then connect the DC voltmeter across the solar cell to measure its voltage. Then start the power supply voltage from zero voltage and increase it till you scan the whole characteristics. You can take more one curve at different illumination levels.

This is for manual measurements. For automatic measurement please follow the paper in the Link:

 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233902875_Experimental_Performance_Characterization_of_Photovoltaic_Modules_Using_DAQ

wish you success

Conference Paper Experimental Performance Characterization of Photovoltaic Mo...

Dear Ehsan,

The methods you mentioned could all work very well but all have disadvantages too.

To have a better understanding of how and what you have to do, it would be better if you could show a picture or schematic representation of your device architecture/design (e.g. top view) but here are a couple of possible answers:

1. use of low resistance probes (pin-like mounted on springs to avoid scratching the metals contacts)

2. always put the silver paste (if you use it) outside of the active area

In my case, I can partially share the design for "simple" connection:

my substrates are covered with ITO etched in a pattern that not only acts as the transparent electrode (one of the connections) but also as a contacting metal (side contact) for the evaporated metal electrodes. I can then simply mount my sample in a predesigned sampled holder where pins come in contact with the two types of ITO (direct connection to the transparent electrode and side contact for the metal electrode).

My explanations might be quite unclear as it is a bit difficult to explain everything without drawings. If you need more details or my explanation is unclear, please feel free to send me a private message (I will reply as soon as possible).

Varun

Pressure contact is the best way to connects the electrodes.