The MS-80, launched in 2016, was based on a new and patented design concept. The new detector at the core of the pyranometer helped to define superior performance characteristics against sensors in the same class, including:
- Fast response time, x10 times faster thermopile
- Lowest offset A achieved by isolating the detector inside the body
- Offset B inherently improved because the isolated detector adapts better to ambient temperature changes
- Better long term stability because the detector is hermetically sealed, making it immune to humidity changes and UV impact
- Temperature dependency optimised for each detector
- Non-linearity effect
Typical Class A or ‘Secondary Standard’ thermopile pyranometers use a ‘double dome’ construction to improve the sensor’s thermal balance and lower the offset characteristics.
The most ‘high-end’ pyranometers have domes made of expensive Quartz or Sapphire to reduce the offset uncertainty and are most commonly used for top research specific applications.
The compact MS-80 sensor uses only a single glass dome and, through clever optical design, is immune to thermal offsets; this means that the performance of the MS-80 rivals any traditional ‘high-end’ sensor at a fraction of the cost.
Without a second dome to get in the way, the optics were designed to provide a true cosine response and flat spectral responsivity in the range 285nm – 3000nm.
Furthermore, the isolated thermopile detector is hermetically sealed and located deep inside the sensor body to keep it thermally balanced. The long-term detector responsivity is enhanced and is no longer affected by long-term exposure to UV irradiance, humidity, and pressure fluctuations.
An additional bonus, the MS-80 contains the drying agent inside the sealed sensor body, so there is no need for a replacement, helping us extend the warranty and recalibration interval from the usual 2 to 5-years.
In summary, superior design, build quality and performance are why the MS-80 is both class and industry-leading.
The MS-80S, meanwhile, launched in 2021, adds a new internal diagnostics system and 4-channel smart interface, building on the revolutionary qualities of the MS-80.