The third important aspect in measuring fuel cell voltages is accuracy. Accuracy, in conjunction with speed, allow the control system (or the researcher) to better diagnose what is happening inside the fuel cell.

 

Voltage characteristics of the cells can provide information about the humidification of each cell, the health of the catalyst, which cells may be exhibiting crossover, and a myriad of other information important to the operation of the fuel cell.

 

There are a number of ways to ensure accurate voltage measurements. Accuracy begins with noise reduction and equipment selection. The CVM should be placed as close to the fuel cell being tested as possible, minimizing the cable length between the CVM and the fuel cell. This will reduce the amount of noise picked up by the cables and transmitted to the CVM. In addition, the CVM must be selected to provide as much accuracy as possible – It is far easier to filter and smooth a high accuracy signal than it is to try to obtain additional accuracy later.

 

These are the primary drivers of CVM selection, although many other factors may come into play: available communication standards, removable storage options, size, power consumption, etc. Overall, the total cost to implement the solution must be considered.

 

Even if the unit cost may be slightly less for one unit, be aware of what other necessary components would cost, such as cabling, software, LabView drivers, etc. The Lynntech Cell Voltage Monitor includes all software and LabView drivers in the initial price while the cable is designed for a simple, low-cost IDC style connector and ribbon cable (similar to a hard-drive cable), resulting in an overall lowest cost solution even while providing superior performance characteristics than other solutions.