© Autarco Group B.V. IM-S1-EN-18V0
Installation and Operation Manual
Solar PV Module
2 Solar PV Module
Contact Information
Autarco Group B.V.
Schansoord 60
5469 DT Erp
The Netherlands
www.autarco.com
info@autarco.com
Other Information
This manual is an integral part of the unit. Please read the manual carefully before installation, operation or
maintenance. Keep this manual for future reference.
Product information is subject to change without notice. All trademarks are recognized as the property of their
respective owners.
© Autarco Group B.V.
All rights reserved.
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Read this first .............................................................................................................................................. 4
1.2 Target Audience ......................................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Product versions covered by this document .............................................................................................. 4
2. Preparation ........................................................................................................................................ 5
2.1 Safety instructions ...................................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Unpacking the modules and storage .......................................................................................................... 6
2.3 General instructions ................................................................................................................................... 6
3. Installation ......................................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Keeping within the maximum permitted load ........................................................................................... 6
3.2 Grounding ................................................................................................................................................... 6
3.3 Fire safety ................................................................................................................................................... 7
3.4 Suitable environmental conditions ............................................................................................................ 7
3.5 Suitable installation .................................................................................................................................... 7
3.6 Optimum orientation and tilt ..................................................................................................................... 7
3.7 Shading ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
4. Mounting ........................................................................................................................................... 8
5. Wiring ................................................................................................................................................ 9
5.1 Cable protection ......................................................................................................................................... 9
6. Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................... 9
7. Disclaimer of liability .......................................................................................................................... 9
4 Solar PV Module
Watt-peak
capacity (Wp)
Series
Full black
design
1. Introduction
1.1 Read this first
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, and to ensure the safe installation and operation of the Autarco solar PV
modules, the following safety symbols appear throughout this document to indicate dangerous conditions and
important safety instructions.
WARNING! Indicates safety instruction, which if not correctly followed, can result in injury or
property damages.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! Indicates safety instructions, which if not correctly followed, could
result in electric shock.
1.2 Target Audience
This manual is intended for anyone who uses Autarco solar PV modules. Before any further action, the operators
must first read all safety regulations and be aware of the potential danger to operate high-voltage devices.
Operators must also have a complete understanding of this device’s features and functions.
1.3 Product versions covered by this document
The main purpose of this user manual is to provide instructions and detailed procedures for installing, operating,
maintaining, and troubleshooting the following series Autarco solar PV modules:
MA-series
MB-series
MC(E)-series
MD(E)-series
PC(E)-series
PD(E)-series
The product code will be “S1.<product version>”, e.g. S1. MC 270 B
Please keep this user manual available at all times in case of emergency.
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2. Preparation
2.1 Safety instructions
Solar modules generate electricity as soon as they are exposed to light. The voltage of a single module is less
than 50VDC. When several modules are connected in series, the summed voltage can be dangerously high.
When the modules are connected in parallel the currents are summed together.
Although touch protection is provided in the form of the fully insulated plug contacts, the following points must
be observed when handling the solar modules to avoid the risk of fire, arcing and fatal electric shock:
NOTICE! The installation of solar PV voltage should be done by qualified professionals.
DANGER! Do not insert electrically conducting parts into the plugs or sockets.
DANGER! Do not wear metallic jewelry while performing mechanical or electrical installation.
DANGER! Do not fit solar modules and wiring with wet plugs and sockets. Tools and working
conditions must be dry.
ATTENTION! Exercise extreme caution when carrying out work on wiring and use the appropriate
safety equipment (insulated tools, insulated gloves, etc.).
ATTENTION! Do not use damaged modules, dismantle modules or remove any part or label fitted
by the manufacturer.
ATTENTION! Do not treat the rear of the laminate with paint or adhesives, or mark it using sharp
objects.
6 Solar PV Module
2.2 Unpacking the modules and storage
The utmost care is required when handling the modules. Take care when unpacking, transporting, and storing
them.
Leave modules in packaging until they are to be installed.
Carry modules with both hands.
Do not use the connection socket as a handle.
Do not stand modules on hard or rough ground.
Do not stand modules on their corners.
Ensure modules do not bend.
Do not subject to load over 5400N, do not stand on them, do not drop.
Do not mark or work on them with sharp objects.
Keep all electrical contacts clean and dry.
If it is necessary to store the modules temporarily, a dry, ventilated room should be used.
2.3 General instructions
Ensure that the module is used for its intended purpose only. Pay attention to the local ordinances, building
standards and accident prevention regulations during installation. The safety information for other system
components must also be followed.
3. Installation
ATTENTION! Do not carry out installation work when there are strong winds. Secure yourself and
other workers to avoid falling. Secure work materials to prevent articles from falling. Create a work
zone to avoid accidents.
WARNING! The following paragraphs are very important. Failure to comply to these instructions
can lead to system underperformance and will void the Autarco kWh guarantee.
3.1 Keeping within the maximum permitted load
Make sure the support structure adheres to maximum permissible load requirements as prescribed by local
ordinances, particularly in regions of high snow accumulations and high wind velocities. Take notice to possible
bending of the modules under high loads. If possible, avoid installing fasteners, cable ties, etc. between the
module backside and support structure (i.e. on mounting rails) as any sharp edges can damage module.
3.2 Grounding
The company installing the PV module frame is also responsible for proper grounding. If the building is already
equipped with an exterior lightning protection system, the PV-installation must be integrated in this protection
system against direct effects of lightning. Country specific standards must be adhered to. A grounding method
authorized by UL is mandatory in the US and Canada.
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3.3 Fire safety
The roof construction and installation may affect the fire safety of a building; improper installation may contribute
to hazards in the event of fire. For roof application, the modules should be mounted over a fire resistant covering
rated for the application. The module is “non-explosion-protected equipment”. Hence it must not be installed in
the proximity of highly flammable gases and vapors (e.g. filling stations, gas containers, paint spraying equipment).
The module must not be installed near open flames or flammable materials.
3.4 Suitable environmental conditions
The module is intended for use in temperate climatic conditions. The module must not be subjected to
concentrated light. It must not be immersed in water or constantly exposed to water spray (e.g. from fountains).
It must not be exposed to high concentrations of salt and sulfur (e.g. from sea or volcanos). The module may not
be exposed to extremely corrosive chemicals (e.g. emissions from manufacturing plants).
3.5 Suitable installation
Make sure the module meets the technical requirements of the system as a whole. Ensure that other system
components do not exert damaging mechanical or electrical influences on the modules. When connected in series,
modules must all have the same amperage. When connected in parallel, the modules must all have the same
voltage. The modules must not be connected together to create a voltage higher than the permitted system
voltage. Modules must not be fitted as overhead glazing or vertical glazing (façade). Ensure that the mounting
system can also withstand the anticipated wind and snow loads. There are openings at the base of the module
frame to allow water from precipitation to drain. Ensure that these openings are not blocked nor partially blocked
by the module installation method. Ventilation of the module backside is necessary to avoid the build-up of heat
that can reduce performance.
3.6 Optimum orientation and tilt
To obtain maximum yield from the system, we recommend that you determine the best direction and tilt angle
for the modules. Conditions for generating electricity are considered ideal when the sun’s rays strike the module
perpendicular to its surface. To avoid performance drops in series circuits, ensure that all modules have the same
orientation and tilt. Failing to do so voids the Autarco AC power output guarantee.
3.7 Shading
Even partial shading will cause a yield reduction and can void the Autarco kWh guarantee. A module is “shade
free” when the entire surface is shade free from 10:00 to 15:00 local time every day of the year.
8 Solar PV Module
4. Mounting
Each module must be securely fastened at a minimum of four (4) points on two (2) opposite sides. The
following clamping positions should be adhered to:
PV modules can be mounted to a substructure by clamping at the front side of the module frame or by
screwing at the back side of the frame.
The tightening torque must be 8-10 Nm.
Do not drill any additional holes into the module.
Use appropriate corrosion-proof fastening materials.
WARNING! Product warranty may be void in cases where above clamping positions, improper
clamps or unsuitable installation methods are found.
Clamping positions when clamping
on the long sides
MA series
220 – 340mm
MB-series
220 – 340mm
MC(E)-series
220 – 340mm
MD(E)-series
340 – 550mm
PC(E)-series
220 – 340mm
PD(E)-series
340 – 550mm
Clamping positions when clamping
on the short sides
MA series
150 – 200mm
MB-series
200 – 250mm
MC(E)-series
200 – 250mm
MD(E)-series
200 – 250mm
PC(E)-series
200 – 250mm
PD(E)-series
200 – 250mm
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5. Wiring
WARNING! The module is provided from the factory with pre-connected cables. Under no
circumstances should the junction box be opened.
ATTENTION! Check that the module wiring is correct before commissioning. All DC cables should
be as short as possible.
ATTENTION! If measured open circuit volage differs from the specifications, there is a wiring fault.
WARNING! Make sure all connections are secure and tight and made in dry conditions.
Modules should be strung in a way that the resulting voltages and currents do not violate the max.
voltage and max. current of the inverter and module which are stated on the product datasheets.
When Autarco modules are supplied as part of an integrally designed, complete Autarco solar PV system, the
supplied wiring diagram should be followed.
Use Autarco supplied solar cable and connectors only. Ensure that they are in perfect electrical and mechanical
condition. Use only single wire DC cables.
5.1 Cable protection
We recommend securing the cables to the mounting system using UV-resistant cable ties. Protect exposed
cables from damage using suitable precautions (e.g. laying them in plastic pipes). Avoid direct exposure to
sunlight.
6. Maintenance
Given a sufficient tilt (at least 15°), it is generally not necessary to clean the modules (rainfall will have a selfcleaning effect). In case of seriously dirty modules, we recommend cleaning them using plenty of water (from a
hose) without any cleaning agents and using a gentle cleaning implement (a sponge). Dirt must never be scraped
or rubbed away when dry, as this may cause micro-scratches.
7. Disclaimer of liability
Since compliance with this guide and the conditions and methods of installation, operation, use and
maintenance of the modules are not checked or monitored by Autarco, Autarco accepts no liability for damage
arising through improper use or incorrect installation, operation, use or maintenance.
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