The application of the solar energy in thermal desalination devices is one of the most beneficial applications of the renewable energies. In this study, a novel solar desalination system is introduced, which is benefited from the undeniable advantages of pulsating heat pipe (PHP) as a fast responding, flexible and high performance thermal conducting device. Results show a remarkable increase in the rate of desalinated water production and the maximum production reaches up to 875 mL/(m(2).h). However, the optimum water depth in basin and the filling ratio of the PHP are measured 1 cm and 40%, respectively. (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.