Open circuit voltage from solar cell strips...

[Kavan]

Hello Forum,

I have taken a octogonal silicon solar cell whose open circuit voltage should be around 0.5V, regardless of the solar cell area or illumination level (assume a cool day).

I have cut that solar cell into small rectangular strips using a diamond saw. The strips (smaller in size) should still give 0.5V  (open circuit) but they only give 0.3V. Why? Is that to be expected? Do you think the conductive traces may not be as good?

Thanks

Kavan

[SeanB]

You need a high level of light to get full output voltage, generally 0.45V typically. 0.3V is possible in lower light levels and with a load like a meter on it.