Have you already performed solar PV module serial number scanning and later realised that the static excel based results were not useful? Have you performed serial number scanning but were struggling with the best approach running into constant problems? In this article, part two of our series on serial number scanning, we focus on how best to approach this herculean task and make it as smooth as possible. To learn why performing module serial number scanning is useful, check out part one of this series.
How to perform PV Module Serial Number Scanning in big volumes
First of all, it’s a question of the correct equipment. While serial numbers can be scanned using only a smartphone, it is absolutely not recommended. Smartphone cameras are not designed for easy and reliable serial number recognition. They struggle for example with sun glare and rain. Additionally, serial numbers are sometimes located up high or in low corners, making it impractical to scan without the visibility of the scanning application.
We recommend using a mobile application combined with a professional barcode scanner that can connect to the phone via Bluetooth. With this combination, you benefit from digitalisation with the scanning mobile application as well as the practicality of the barcode scanner.
Don’t forget to acquire a couple of good battery banks and charging cables. You are looking at 8+ hours a day of serial number scanning and don’t want to be held up because your phone runs out of battery.
Secondly, in our experience, the success of the operation also depends on good preparation:
- Have you identified the serial number barcode location on the modules? How does it influence your scanning process? Do you need any additional equipment to access barcodes in big heights?
- What is the solar PV site status and condition? In our experience, best results are achieved after ground maintenance and module cleaning.
- Has everyone performing serial number scanning downloaded the app to their smartphone, logged in with the relevant account and received training on the scanning process?
- Is an agreed scanning methodology in place?
What to look out for in a mobile application for serial number scanning?
The beauty of performing PV module serial scanning with a tailor-made software and mobile application instead of only a barcode scanner and an excel sheet is that it increases the usability of the data. While the traditional outcome of serial number scanning is a static list of serial numbers, software nowadays provides the possibility to exactly locate the specific serial number, attach additional information to the module and apply efficient software-based workflows to it. When considering serial number scanning you should therefore always ask what the outcome of the exercise is and how you can make use of the data.
The below image shows how a PV module serial number gets exactly located in a map view.
The other advantage of software-based serial number scanning is that mobile applications can and should offer features to make the scanning process smoother than employing purely a barcode scanner. Features that make the scanning process smoother:
- Map-based orientation in the field
- Multi-directional scanning processes
- Visibility of overall scan-status
- Predetermined serial number length settings
- Fast scanning mode as well as manual data entry possibility
- Auto-notification for faulty scans
Features that facilitate post-processing:
- Filter to identify and locate duplicates
- Filter for specific characters, e.g. all serial numbers beginning with XYZ
- Visual overview of all scanned serial numbers
- Easily add faulty scans to task lists for rescanning
With these features your serial number scanning process is set up to be as efficient and effective as possible. Giving you the best possible outcome to start your solar asset registry.
In this ‘Above Onsite’ video, we explain how to record solar PV module serial numbers digitally using our EyeSite mobile app.
Set up your solar plant for success
Adopting the features available to you your serial number scanning process is set to be as efficient and effective as possible giving you the best possible outcome to start your solar asset. If you are in doubt as to why performing module serial number scanning is useful, check out part one of this series.
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