More sophisticated, robust, and well-documented version of SunAngle for people interested in better understanding the calculation methodology or developing their own solar angle calculation tools. The Professional Suite includes well-documented HTML/JavaScript and Microsoft Excel versions of SunAngle, plus a detailed technical manual explaining how to perform all of the underlying calculations.
Screen Shots
Keywords
sun angle, solar calculator
Validation/Testing
Outputs of the SunAngle Professional Suite were compared to published standard sources of solar angle data; this is documented in the SunAngle Technical Manual.
Expertise Required
Knowledge of HTML, JavaScript, and/or Microsoft Excel, if the user wishes to customize the software for specific applications.
Users
Several thousand people per year use SunAngle and related solar calculation tools available from the developer.
Audience
Sophisticated users interested in understanding solar angle calculations and/or designing their own solar angle calculation tools.
Input
Location, date, and time are required to generate solar angle data. Optional inputs include surface orientation.
Output
Solar angle data, plus related quantities such as day length, times of sunrise/sunset, and angle of incidence on a surface.
Computer Platform
The HTML/JavaScript version requires any web browser; the Microsoft Excel version requires Excel; the Technical Manual requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Programming Language
JavaScript and Excel
Strengths
Best for performing highly accurate solar angle calculations, and providing access to the underlying algorithms for advanced users.
Weaknesses
Not necessary for the novice user who only needs basic solar angle data; such users can simply use the shareware version available at www.susdesign.com.
Contact
Availability
Available on the web site. Cost is $40 for electronic version send via e-mail, or $50 for a CD-ROM sent via postal mail.
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