I am doing a science fair project that deals with solar energy. i was just confused with the part that deals with measuring using a digital multimeter.

Can anyone help me by explaining how to do this project? It is online at …

http://sciencebuddies.com/science-fair-projects/project_ideas/Energy_p004.shtml?fave=no&isb=c2lkOjEsaWE6RW5lcmd5LHA6MixyaWQ6NDcyNzAxOA&from=TSW

This is the multimeter I am using:

http://www.frys.com/product/4108273

Questions:
Is the V symbol with a squiggly line on the top the one I use to find the open circuit voltage? Or
is the V with a dashed line on top and a full line?

What do I use to measure the short-circuit current?

*** I already have the red and black clips from the solar panel connected to the ones of the multimeter. I need to know how to measure the maximum power available from the solar panel. Also, if someone can explain this project in simpler terms it would be helpful. I think I already know what I am supposed to do, but I am just confused.

(So, am I supposed to tilt the solar panel at different angles then measure the maximum output from each position and see which angle produced the most output power?)

THANKS!!! Any help would be greatly appreciated. Also, the sooner the better. I hope to place 1st place this year and the more time and effort I put on this project, the better.

The red V with squiggly line is AC power. That is what the house runs on and is on the output of an inverter, which you don’t have. The V with the dashed line is DC power. That is the output of the solar panel, you’ll use that for measuring the voltage.

To measure the current, move the red lead to the A plug and move the dial to Amps. Measure across the leads.

You’ll see when you tilt the panel at different angles, the output will change as the sun hits the panels straight on.

Please watch this short video showing how to measure panels. http://www.altestore.com/video/video-Solar-Panel-Testing-v3/