Abstract: A method in a solar panel including one or more bypass diodes coupled to one or more sections of solar wafers includes measuring a current flowing through each section of the solar panel; measuring a current flowing through each bypass diode; and assessing the measured current value of the one or more sections of the solar panel and the measured current values of the bypass diodes to determine if the solar panel is malfunctioning. In another embodiment, the method measures a current flowing through the solar panel and through the bypass diodes to determine if the solar panel is malfunctioning. In another embodiment, a method in a solar array determines an underperforming solar panel by measuring the output current and the output voltage of the solar panels in the array.

Abstract: A solar panel includes a wireless tag affixed to the solar panel where the wireless tag includes a wireless communication interface, a memory, and an auxiliary communication port. The memory of the wireless tag is configured to store at least panel-specific data of the solar panel where the panel-specific data includes at least current-voltage characteristics of the solar panel. The data is stored onto the memory of the wireless tag through the auxiliary communication port and the stored data is accessible through the wireless communication interface of the wireless tag. In another embodiment, a method for storing panel-specific data in a solar panel includes placing the solar panel with a wireless tag affixed thereto in a solar panel characterization chamber to perform characterization test and storing panel-specific data of the solar panel, including at least current-voltage characteristics of the solar panel, in the memory of the wireless tag.

Abstract: A solar panel includes a wireless device attached to or embedded in the solar panel where the wireless device includes a wireless transceiver circuit and a memory. In one embodiment, the solar panel includes an antenna formed on the metal frame of the solar panel where the antenna is electrically connected to the wireless device to extend a communication range of the wireless device. In another embodiment, the solar panel includes an antenna formed attached to a junction box of the solar panel. The antenna can be a slot antenna or a patch antenna.