Manual

1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INTRODUCTION TO THE SOLYS 2
The SOLYS 2 two-axis sun tracker is an all-weather positioning platform used to point specialized
instruments at the sun’s movement across the sky. It is fully automatic and does not require a computer or
software for installation.
The integrated GPS receiver automatically configures location and time data. Multi-colour LEDs indicate the
operating status and an Ethernet port allows for software upgrades. The high-efficiency belt drive system
requires no maintenance.
The tough and distinctive cast aluminium housing has an integrated tripod stand with levelling feet. A side
plate with mountings for a Kipp & Zonen pyrheliometer is included as standard and a second side plate can
be fitted for an additional pyrheliometer. A top mounting plate is available for convenient mounting of up to
three Kipp & Zonen radiometers.
The shading assembly accessory includes the top mounting plate and allows the tracker to be configured as
a complete solar monitoring station.
SOLYS 2 does not suffer from internal clock drift because time is updated by the GPS receiver. A sun sensor
is optional available for active tracking where the stability of the support platform cannot be guaranteed.
SOLYS 2 has been designed to provide reliable, affordable sun tracking for small and medium sized
payloads. (<20Kg) Its accuracy is excellent for solar monitoring applications.
The built in power supply accepts both 24 VDC and 90 – 264 VAC and allows the DC Voltage to be used as a
backup.
SOLYS 2 is an all weather instrument providing optimal performance even in the harshest climates (from
equatorial to Polar region). The built in heater extends the operating temperature down to -40°C and
operates from AC power only. The SOLYS 2 features high accuracy, resolution and repeatability.
A standard SOLYS 2 with no accessories is shown in Figure 1.1.
Figure 1.1: SOLYS 2 standard delivery
1.2 MANUAL
The SOLYS 2 INSTRUCTION MANUAL is intended for customers who have purchased the SOLYS 2 with some
or all of the accessory items that can be used to enhance or expand its capabilities. It includes all the
information necessary to install and operate the SOLYS 2 for stand-alone operation.