Abstract
Parabolic trough solar concentrators are important components in wide range of medium temperature solar applications. The understanding of the key design parameters and operational conditions on the overall behavior of the system is very important for improving the energy conversion efficiency. To illustrate these dependences and to design monitoring and control systems, a miniature solar parabolic though collector has been designed and built. It considers low cost materials and off the shelf electric components. The system has been used to illustrate the design process, their operation and the design of control and monitoring tools. This type of activities has served to enhance the students' understanding of solar energy conversion processes and the main parameters affecting their efficiency.