The PMO6 radiometer is a reference instrument to measure direct solar irradiance. Originally it has been developed by PMOD/WRC in the late 1970s for Total Solar Irradiance measurements from high altitude balloons and satellites. Between 1980 and 2016, the PMO6 has also been built in several versions for ground based use. The last PMO6 series has been built 2016 by Davos Instruments. In 2020 the PMO6 has been replaced by the PMO8.
The PMO6 is now widely used as calibration reference for solar sensors. It is an absolute cavity pyrheliometer and fulfils the requirements of a primary standard according to the WMO CIMO-Guide.
The PMO6 is an electrical substitution radiometer, it means the principle of measurement is based on the substitution of solar radiant power with electrical power, similar to its successor the PMO8.
The PMO6 system consists of a sensor and a control unit. While the sensor unit has undergone only minor changes between 1980 and 2016, the control unit has undergone several redesigns. Pre 2000 units usually feature a “CIR” control unit, while the newer instruments are operated by a PMO6-cc control unit which offers direct data acquisition capabilities.
Davos Instruments offers repair and maintenance for PMO6 radiometers of all generations. The PMO6 can also be upgraded with the new control unit Linard.
PMOD/WRC remains in charge for calibration services. For calibration services, please contact PMOD/WRC directly.
