Introduction to SolarEdge Distributed DC Solutions
Solar Edge Technologies provides advanced distributed DC solutions for maximum power harvesting. Solar Edge enables constraint-free design and enhanced safety in residential, commercial, and large-scale PV installations.
Components of the SolarEdge Solution
The Solar Edge solution is comprised of three elements. Power boxes are DCTC power optimizers that perform maximum powerpoint tracking and monitoring at the module level. The Solar Edge inverter, the only inverter specially designed to work with power optimizers, inverts DC to AC. The Solar Edge monitoring portal allows remote access to installation realtime performance data. In the next few minutes, we will walk you through the four easy steps of setting up the Solar Edge distributed power harvesting system.
Installing SolarEdge Power Boxes
All installations should be done in accordance with local safety code requirements.
Power Box Wiring and Mounting
The power box has two inputs for connection to the module. Two output cables connect the power boxes to each other in series. Power boxes can be supplied with different connector types. Using the two mounting holes, attach each power box to any kind of racking. Use the provided washer to properly ground the power box to metallic railings or use a continuous grounding wire. Connect each power box to its respective solar module. Connect the power boxes serially in a string by connecting the output wires of one power box to those of the preceding and following power boxes. Secure excess wires.
System Architecture, Safety, and Module Mapping
The Solar Edge unique fixed string voltage architecture allows you to connect strings of unequal length in parallel before the system is activated. There is no risk of high DC voltages. Each power box outputs a 1V safe voltage. You can verify correct connections by using a voltage meter. The total string voltage should be equal to the number of correctly connected modules. To take full advantage of your module level monitoring, now is the best time to create a virtual map of the site layout indicating the physical location of each monitored module. This map will appear on the monitoring portal. Mapping can easily be done either by placing the serial number stickers on a reporting template and faxing it to Solar Edge or by using your cellular phone site mapping application to scan each Power Box barcode. This will enable location-based module level monitoring in real time.
Configuring and Activating Your SolarEdge System
Inverter Installation and Initial Configuration
The inverter is supplied with an NEC compliant AC/DC safety switch. Mount the inverter and safety switch on the supplied mounting bracket. The switch is connected to the inverter by two conduits. Through these conduits, connect the wires between the switch and the inverter. Connect the DC and AC wires of the installation to the switch. Turn the safety switch on. Configure the inverter settings with the user buttons inside the inverter or connect a laptop to the inverter and use the configuration software tool.
System Activation and Performance Monitoring
To activate the system for the first time, power boxes need to be paired with their respective inverter. For pairing, press the inverter button for 10 seconds and turn the inverter switch on. Well done. Your optimized installation is now producing clean and safe solar energy. The LCD screen provides positive indications by showing how much power is generated and how many power boxes are properly connected. The configuration tool provides detailed real-time performance data for each module. Power boxes enable remote module level monitoring through transmission of module performance data over the existing DC cables. To enjoy the benefits of module level diagnostics and analysis capabilities, connect the inverter to the internet either directly to the built-in LAN or wirelessly using the internal ZigGB modem. The LCD gives immediate feedback for correct connection. Congratulations, you are done. You are now ready to enjoy the benefits of flexible design, enhanced safety and maintenance, and more power generation.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| SolarEdge Solution Components | Power boxes, SolarEdge inverter, SolarEdge monitoring portal |
| Power Box Functionality | Distributed DC power optimization, maximum power point tracking, module-level monitoring |
| Power Box Output Voltage (Safe Mode) | 1V per module |
| Inverter Compatibility | Specially designed to work with power optimizers |
| Inverter Safety Switch | NEC compliant AC/DC safety switch |
| Inverter Connectivity | Built-in LAN, internal ZigBee modem (for wireless) |
| System Architecture | Fixed string voltage, allows unequal string lengths in parallel |
| Monitoring Portal Features | Remote access to real-time installation performance data, location-based module-level monitoring |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main components of the SolarEdge solution?
A: The SolarEdge solution is comprised of three elements: Power boxes (DC-DC power optimizers), the SolarEdge inverter (specially designed to work with power optimizers), and the SolarEdge monitoring portal.
Q: How does SolarEdge ensure safety during installation and operation?
A: Before the system is activated, there is no risk of high DC voltages, as each power box outputs a 1V safe voltage. The inverter is also supplied with an NEC compliant AC/DC safety switch.
Q: How can I monitor the performance of individual solar modules?
A: SolarEdge enables module-level monitoring through Power boxes, which transmit performance data over existing DC cables. You can view this data in real-time on the monitoring portal, which displays a virtual map of your site layout. The SolarEdge inverter can connect to the internet via built-in LAN or a ZigBee modem for detailed diagnostics and analysis.