**4.2.3 Solar cell configuration**

Under bright sunlight, all silicon PV cells have an open circuit output of approximately 0.5V irrespective of cell surface area. The voltage is a function of the cell's physical composition, while amperage is affected by area of cell and the amount and intensity of light falling upon it. Increase in the voltage and amperage output of PV cells depends on the mode of connection of the cells in a module. For higher voltage, the cells are linked in series (net voltage is the sum of the individual voltages of the cells) (Figure 8a). The net current is however the same as that of a single cell. To boost amperage, the cells must be connected in parallel (Figure 8b)

Fig. 8. Solar cell connections
