Note: Measuring spectral response of photocells with light-emitting diodes

Although the spectral response is a key data for photocells, traditional measurement setup for it consists of expensive optical precision components including white-light source, collimator and monochromator, and has relatively large footprint. Here, it is demonstrated that a compact, portable, and low-cost device based on an array of light-emitting diodes can provide quantitatively reliable spectral response characterization of photocells. The device seems to be useful for the purpose of preliminary survey of the spectral response of novel material and/or materials system prior to precise measurement with the traditional equipment.