Modules" Stages of testing The lifecycle stages of testing solar modules can include: the Conceptual phase, manufacturing phase, transportation and installation, commissioning phase, and the in-service phase. Depending on the test phase, different test principles may apply. Conceptual phase The first stage can involve design verification where the expected output of the module is tested through computer simulation. Further, the modules ability to withstand natural environment conditions such as temperature, rain, hail, snow, corrosion, dust, lightning, horizon and near-shadow effects is tested. The layout for design and construction of the module and the quality of components and installation can also be tested at this stage. Manufacturing phase Inspecting manufacturers of components is carried through visitation. The inspection can include assembly checks, material testing supervision and Non Destructive Testing (NDT). Certification is carried our according to ANSI/UL1703, IEC 17025, IEC 61215, IEC 61646, IEC 61701 and IEC 61730-1/-2. AC module An AC module is a photovoltaic module which has a small AC inverter mounted onto its back side which produces AC power with no external DC connector. AC modules are defined by Underwriters Laboratories as the smallest and most complete system for harvesting solar energy. See also Daisy chain (electrical engineering) Digital modeling and fabrication Domestic energy consumption Grid-tied electrical system Growth of photovoltaics MC4 connector Solar charger Solar cooker Solar still Junction box References Photovoltaics Panel Smart devices Solar power