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This solar cell, from the first year in which solar cells became functional, contains a strip of specially treated silicon. Today silicon is still the most commonly used semiconductor for solar cells. Battery cells such as this one would have been combined into a larger panel to provide power. Because solar cells have no moving parts scientists predicted they could “theoretically last indefinitely.”
Collection of AT&T Archives and History Center.
In this demonstration, sunlight falling on a solar cell array powered a small radio transmitter. Thomas spoke into a microphone and his voice was transmitted across the lawn of Bell Labs at Murray Hill.
Image Courtesy of AT&T Archives and History Center.
Bell Telephone System.
Unlike the transistor, this invention received publicity immediately. In addition to powering telephones, Bell scientists were able to power radio transmitters. Solar energy was exhibited to the press for the first time on April 25, 1954, by powering a 21-inch toy ferris wheel.