The first integrated power integrated circuit to perform MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)
Best-in-class shading compensation, improved panel reliability, and enhanced design flexibility

Maxim Integrated Products Korea (CEO Kim Hyun-sik) announced a new 'Cell-String Optimizer' that increases the energy efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels by 30% and simplifies design.

The Maxim Solar Cell Optimizer is the first integrated power integrated circuit (IC) to perform Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). Based on Maxim's superior power semiconductor technology, it replaces bypass diodes with highly integrated DC-DC converters to perform MPPT for solar modules. As the first in the industry to be embedded in solar modules, it eliminates panel mismatch issues by replacing individual diodes with MPPT devices. As a fully integrated solution, it simplifies design without the need for specialized inverters or data services.

The Maxim Solar Cell Optimizer provides high design flexibility to suit various string structures. It supports maximum power production for the panel's solar cell strings without affecting the power output of each individual cell. It also compensates for localized shading on the panels to a best-in-class level. Based on this high flexibility, it increases energy production and prevents performance losses that can result from module misalignment, soiling, localized shading, and row shading. It provides high reliability by eliminating hotspots and minimizing the impact of power degradation mechanisms.

"The Maxim Solar Cell Optimizer provides best-in-class shading compensation, flexible system design, and improved panel life performance. As the first integrated power semiconductor for MPPT, it is already being used in mass production by major solar module manufacturers," said Seth Kahn, Executive Vice President of Solar Products at Maxim Integrated.

Maxim will introduce a new solar cell optimizer at the Solar Photovoltaics (SPI) held in Las Vegas, USA, from September 12 to 15. Hanwha Q CELLS (Booth 2337), along with Maxim’s solar module partners Jinko Solar (Booth 2007), ET Solar (Booth 1371), Fronius (Booth 1521), Suntech (Booth 1335), and Trina Solar (Booth 1511), will showcase Maxim’s high-performance, cost-effective solar cell optimization technology.

You can find detailed information, videos, and information on Maxim's solar module partners on the Maxim website.