Solar 'Heliotube' company partners with installers (news.com.com)

By Martin LaMonica
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
Published: February 6, 2007, 11:41 AM PST

Solar power start-up Practical Instruments has signed on three installers of its "Heliotube," a solar panel equipped with tubes that follow the sun's direction.

There are a number of companies using a concentrator design. By focusing sunlight with mirrors and lenses, panel makers can get more power from a solar cell or lower the overall cost by using less silicon, the most commonly used material for converting light to electricity.

The Heliotube uses a set of self-powered tubes that turn during the course of the day to maximize light input.

Practical Instruments' Heliotube also concentrates light, but its system is designed to be the same size as traditional flat panels. That makes it easier for solar installers to work with, according to CEO Brad Hines.
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Hines said that while other solar concentrator companies are selling directly to end users, Practical Instruments' strategy is to sell to installers.


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more: http://news.com.com/Solar+Heliotube+company+partners+with+installers/2100-11392_3-6156744.html

Electrical

– 175 Weq (watts-equivalent) typical

– 4.2 Amps @ 41Volts typical

– Auto-tracking; no alignment required

http://www.practicalinstruments.com/products.php


Physical

– Size: 65” x 44” x 6”

– Weight: 50lbs (2.5 lbs/square foot)

– Low aerodynamic profile
– Standard rack mounting: non-penetrating, flat or tilted


Reliability

– Certified for grid-connected use

– Ultra long life components

– Comprehensive accelerated life testing