Kipp&Zonen 2AP Sun Tracker - Manual (Page 8)

TECHNICAL DATA
7
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INTRODUCTION TO THE 2AP
The 2AP two-axis tracker and positioner is an all-weather positioning platform used to point
specialized instruments at the sun’s movement across the sky or at stationary targets. It has been
designed to provide reliable, affordable positioning for small and medium sized payloads. Its
accuracy is excellent for solar monitoring applications.
When configured to operate as a solar tracker, unattended stand-alone operation is provided
through the 2AP’s embedded microcomputer-controlled azimuth and zenith positioning mechanism.
As a PC-based positioner, the 2AP is controlled and monitored by a full-time connection to a host
computer running the Win2AP software. Serial cable or modem interfacing can be used for
communications with the tracker.
The 2AP Gear Drive (2AP GD) is an all weather instrument providing optimal performance even in
the most harsh climates (from equatorial to Polar regions) and/or when the highest performance is a
necessity. The 2AP Gear Drive features high accuracy, resolution and repeatability, and great
torque.
A standard 2AP with no accessories is shown in Figure 1.1. Figure 1.2 shows the 2AP Gear Drive’s
most important parts.
Figure 1.1:
2AP Outline Dimensions.