Arduino IV Curve Tracer Kit - Solar Panel I-V Curve & MPPT
Build an Arduino Solar I-V Curve Tracer: Measure Panel Performance and Track Maximum Power
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Whether you're preparing a CBSE Class-12 physics investigatory project, entering a Smart India Hackathon, or deepening your renewable energy lab, this kit transforms an Arduino Uno into a professional-grade curve tracer. It sweeps the solar panel's load, plots the full I-V characteristic on a colour TFT, and locates the maximum power point-exactly as solar labs do, but in your hands.
What You'll Build
You will assemble a self-contained testing station that connects a 6?V solar panel to an INA219 current/voltage sensor, an MCP4725 DAC-controlled load, and a 1.8-inch ST7735 TFT display. The final device automatically varies the load resistance, measures current and voltage at every step, draws the I-V curve in real time, and overlays the maximum power point with calculated wattage. It's a tool you can reuse for future solar experiments and science exhibitions.
What You'll Learn
- How to read high-side current and bus voltage from an INA219 over I�C and use that data to compute power.
- How to program an MCP4725 DAC to precisely set the gate voltage of a MOSFET-based variable load.
- How to render real-time graphs on a 1.8-inch ST7735 TFT using SPI and the Adafruit graphics library.
- How to interpret a photovoltaic panel's I-V curve, calculate fill factor, and determine efficiency at the maximum power point.
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | x1 |
| INA219 | x1 |
| MCP4725 DAC | x1 |
| Solar Panel 6V 2W | x1 |
| 1.8in TFT ST7735 | x1 |
| 4.7k? Resistors | x5 |
| 100nF Caps | x5 |
| 400-pt Breadboard | x1 |
| M-M Wires | x20 |
| 9V Battery Snap | x1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Ideal for CBSE Class 11-12 students preparing a physics investigatory project on solar cells, B.Tech ECE/EEE undergraduates tackling renewable energy lab assignments, and participants in Smart India Hackathon or ATL Tinkering Lab challenges who need a dependable I-V curve tracer. It bridges textbook theory and real-world instrumentation, giving you hands-on experience that stands out in viva-voce and project presentations.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project - accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code on the box to open the AI build companion; it answers step-by-step questions specific to this curve tracer. You can also reach us on WhatsApp for a quick reply from our support team.
Can I trace I-V curves on larger solar panels?
The kit is calibrated for the included 6?V 2?W panel. With external voltage dividers and a higher-power MOSFET, you can adapt the circuit-the AI companion explains the modifications and safety limits.
Does this kit require prior Arduino experience?
Intermediate familiarity helps, but the provided sketch is heavily commented. If you can upload code and follow wiring diagrams, you'll succeed. The build companion walks you through every connection and line of logic.
Is this suitable for a CBSE school project or science fair?
Absolutely. The live I-V plot and automatic MPP detection make abstract solar concepts tangible. Many students have used similar setups to win regional and national STEM competitions.
Sweeps solar panel load. INA219 plots I-V curve and finds maximum power point.
What's in this kit
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items