Xylem is expanding its mobile application offerings with XyDial, an iPhone application that helps customers position their solar panels. XyDial enables users to expertly locate, configure and adjust a solar panel in real-time, finding the position that will receive the most sunlight and optimize power output.

"XyDial empowers solar panel users by simplifying the initial panel configuration process, and also by ensuring that they will get the most out of their solar energy equipment over time," said Keith Teichmann, director of innovative networks and marketing for Xylem's Applied Water Systems business unit.

"The app is easy to use and helps maximize solar panel efficiency."

Taking advantage of the iPhone's GPS, digital compass, gyroscope and forward-facing camera, XyDial determines the most efficient placement for a solar panel based on geographic location, orientation, month, date and time of day. An advanced shadow adjustment feature helps the user identify the possible points at which a solar panel will be shaded and reposition it to improve solar output.

After the app display indicates the path of the sun, a customer may draw a rectangle over any obstruction or multiple obstructions. The app will then recalculate the available solar power from the panel, providing the opportunity to shift it for optimal output.

XyDial works anywhere in the world, with or without an Internet connection, and incorporates a number of additional customizable features, including:

+ User-friendly interface - the interface follows visual and audible cues.

+ Optimizes solar power - the app finds the most effective panel orientation, and traces the projected path of the sun.

+ Saved panels - users can name, save, edit and view multiple locations and configurations.

+ Customizable settings - the app helps users estimate the panel's power output based on internal solar irradiation databases, panel specification, geographical location and selected calendar dates.

+ Power output graphs - users can view the power output of the panel for the total time selected.

+ Bilingual - XyDial is available in English and German.