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TECHNICAL BRIEF – North America
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
1
Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
The Enphase IQ Microinverter™ system is inexpensive to install and provides a wide
range of new installation options to solar professionals. It is the ideal product for single-
phase applications. New components available as part of this system
provide additional options for reducing balance of system (BOS) costs
and installation complexity. This planning guide introduces solar
installation professionals to the new components, provides guidance on
component selection, and gives tips for various system design and
installation scenarios.
The Enphase IQ Microinverter System includes the following:
• Enphase IQ Series Micros and accessories: IQ 6, IQ 6+, IQ 7, IQ 7+ and IQ 7X
• Enphase IQ Envoy or IQ Combiner, IQ Combiner+ or IQ Combiner 3
• Enphase Q Cable and accessories
• Enphase Enlighten and apps
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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IQ 6 and IQ 6+ Micros
The IQ 6 and IQ 6+ Micros have a 97% CEC efficiency for single-phase applications and are available at
peak output power ratings of 240 watts and 290 watts respectively. For a single-phase, 240V application, you
can install a maximum of 16 IQ 6 Micros or 13 IQ 6+ Micros on a 20A branch circuit. See the IQ product data
sheet for complete product specifications at enphase.com.
Maximum
IQ Micros
per AC branch
circuit
IQ 6 Micros (single-phase 240 VAC)
IQ 6+ Micros (single-phase 240 VAC)
16
13
IQ 6 Micros (single-phase 208 VAC)
IQ 6+ Micros (single-phase 208 VAC)
14
11
IQ 7 and IQ 7+ Micros
The IQ 7 and IQ 7+ Micros have a 97% CEC efficiency for single-phase applications and are available at
peak output power ratings of 250 watts and 295 watts respectively. For a single-phase, 240V application, you
can install a maximum of 16 IQ 7 Micros or 13 IQ 7+ Micros on a 20A branch circuit. See the IQ product data
sheets for complete product specifications at enphase.com.
Maximum
IQ Micros
per AC branch
circuit
IQ 7 Micros (single-phase 240 VAC)
IQ 7+ Micros (single-phase 240 VAC)
16
13
IQ 7 Micros (single-phase 208 VAC)
IQ 7+ Micros (single-phase 208 VAC)
13
11
IQ 7X Micros
The IQ 7X Micros have a 97.5% (at 240 VAC) CEC efficiency for single-phase applications and are available
at peak output power ratings of 320 watts. For a single-phase, 240V application, you can install a maximum
of 12 IQ 7 Micros or 10 IQ 7+ Micros on a 20A branch circuit. See the IQ product data sheets for complete
product specifications at enphase.com.
Maximum
IQ Micros
per AC branch
circuit
IQ 7X Micros (single-phase 240 VAC)
12
IQ 7X Micros (single-phase 208 VAC)
10
IMPORTANT: Enphase IQ Envoy and IQ Series Micros do not communicate with, and should not be used
with, previous generation Enphase Microinverters, AC Batteries, and Envoys. The Q Aggregator and other Q
accessories work only with Enphase IQ Series Microinverters.
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
3
Q Cable and IQ Micro Accessories
The IQ Microinverter System uses the new Q Cable with only two conductors, resulting in a lighter and more
flexible product. This UL3003 listed DG (Distributed Generation) cabling system is purpose designed for the
application, and uses the following new accessories, which are not compatible with earlier Enphase cabling
systems.
Q CABLE TYPES / ORDERING OPTIONS
Model Number
Description
Connector
Spacing
PV Module
Orientation
Connector Count per
Box
Q-12-10-240
Q Cable for 60/72 cell 1.0m
portrait module pitch
1.3 m (4.2 ft)
Portrait
240
Q-12-17-240
Q Cable for 60 cell 1.7m
landscape module pitch
2.0 m (6.5 ft)
Landscape (60-cell)
240
Q-12-20-200
Q Cable for 72 cell 2.0m
landscape module pitch
2.3 m (7.5 ft)
Landscape (72-cell)
200
Q-12-RAW-300
Q Cable, 12 AWG, no
connectors, 300m length
ENPHASE Q CABLE ACCESSORIES
Name
Model Number
Description
Q Aggregator
Q-BA-3-1P-60
Combines up to three microinverter AC branch circuits into one two-line home
run
Field Wireable Q Connector (male)
Q-CONN-10M
Make Q Cable connections to any Q Aggregator open connector or female Field
Wireable Q Connector
Field Wireable Q Connector
(female)
Q-CONN-10F
Make Q Cable connections to any Q Cable open connector or male Field
Wireable Q Connector
Q Clip
Q-CLIP-100
Used to fasten cabling to the racking or to secure looped cabling
Q Cable Disconnect Tool
Q-DISC-10
Disconnect tool for Q Cable connectors, DC connectors, and AC module mount
Q Aggregator Sealing Caps (male)
Q-BA-CAP-10
Male sealing cap for unused Q Aggregator connectors
Q Sealing Caps (female)
Q-SEAL-10
Female sealing cap for unused Q Cable connectors
Q Cable Terminator
Q-TERM-10
Terminator for unused Q Cable ends
IQ Replacement DC Adapter (MC4)
Q-DCC-2
IQ Micro replacement adaptor for MC4 DC connector
IQ Replacement DC Adapter (UTX)
Q-DCC-5
IQ Micro replacement adaptor for UTX DC connector
Q CABLE TERMINATOR
Terminator for unused cable
ends, sold in packs of ten
(Q-TERM-10)
Q SEALING CAPS
Sealing caps for unused aggregator
and cable connections
(Q-BA-CAP-10 and Q-SEAL-10)
Q CABLE DISCONNECT TOOL
Plan to use at least one per
installation, sold in packs of ten
(Q-DISC-10)
Q CLIP
Used to fasten cabling to the racking
or to secure looped cabling, sold in
packs of ten (Q-CLIP-100)
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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Specifying Cabling and Accessories at the Array
The Enphase IQ Microinverter system uses a new and
improved cabling system. The Q Cable is DG type and
contains only two #12 AWG line conductors. The Q Cable
male connectors plug directly into the IQ Micros, whose
double insulation rating requires no neutral or ground
conductors. This lightweight cable drives down system costs
while simplifying installation.
Designing with Q Cable
Q CABLE SPECIFICATIONS
Voltage rating
600V (connector rating 250 V)
Cable temperature rating
90° C (194° F)
Certification
UL3003, DG cable
Flame test rating
FT4
Compliance
RoHS, OIL RES I, CE, UV resistant, combined UL for the United States
Conductor rating
THHN/THWN-2 dry/wet
Q Cable is a single-phase, two-line conductor cable with integrated AC connectors available in three
connector-spacing configurations for different PV module sizes and layouts. Also offered is a raw Q Cable
without integrated AC connectors for runs between separated arrays or to a junction box located some
distance away from an array.
IQ Micro part numbers offered
with either MC4 or Amphenol UTX
DC Adaptors
Male connector on Q Cable
Female connector on IQ Micro
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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You must install supports (clips, etc.) for the Q Cable and raw Q Cable at six-foot intervals or less. Installation
requirements for wet-rated cable allow Q Cable and raw Q Cable to be installed in conduits, cable trays, and
other raceways.
Q Cable is a UL3003 DG (Distributed Generation) listed cabling system. The DG cable standard UL3003
is based upon the construction specifications (wet rated) of TC-ER cable, which may be installed in raceway
as per NEC 336.10(3). The Q Cable and raw Q Cable are manufactured with DG cable to the specifications
in the Q Cable Specifications Table on page 4.
Refer to the UL guide card for DG cable: http://database.ul.com/cgi-
bin/XYV/template/LISEXT/1FRAME/showpage.html?name=QHZR.GuideInfo&ccnshorttitle=Distributed+Gen
eration+Cable&objid=1085285873&cfgid=1073741824&version=versionless&parent_id=1085285872&seque
nce=1
Terminations at the Q Aggregator
The Q Aggregator accommodates up to
three microinverter AC branch circuits.
Connect any open male Q Cable connector
to the female connector on the Q
Aggregator. The Q Aggregator provides
built-in 20A over-current protection fuses for
each microinverter AC branch circuit and
the ability to run one combined set of output
conductors off the roof, further reducing
BOS costs and making wire pulls easier.
Optionally, you can attach a male Field
Wireable Q Connector to the end of a Q
Cable or a raw Q Cable and plug it into the
Q Aggregator.
Male connector
on Q Cable
Female connector
on Q Aggregator
Male Field Wireable
Q Connector
Male Sealing Cap
(Q-BA-CAP)
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
6
Field Wireable Q Connectors
You can use the male or female Field Wireable Q Connectors to extend the Q Cable (with connectors) or the
raw Q Cable (without connectors). Installers assemble the Field Wireable Q Connectors using a crimp tool
and the provided terminals.
Enphase recommends the Multi-Contact PV-CZM-18100, -19100, or -22100 crimp tools.
Each male or female Field Wireable Q Connector includes the corresponding male or female terminals, so
be sure to keep the terminals separate, as they are not interchangeable.
Note:
• Use only the provided terminals, and do NOT use the Field Wireable Q Connectors with other types
of terminals.
• Use the Field Wireable Q Connectors only with Enphase Q Cable, and do NOT use other types of
cables or conductors.
Connector Type
Will connect to
Field Wireable Q Connectors (Male)
Q Aggregator, IQ Microinverter, or a female Field Wireable Q Connector
Field Wireable Q Connectors (Female)
Q Cable connector or a male Field Wireable Q Connector
When the microinverters are located some distance from the roof top junction box or Q Aggregator, it may be
most economical to use raw Q Cable (without connectors) to run across an array or to run through raceway,
conduit or a chase to another array.
Male connector
on Q Cable
Female Field Wireable Q
Connector
Female Field Wireable
Q Connector
Male Field Wireable
Q Connector
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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Sealing Caps
You must seal each unused Q Cable connector with a watertight sealing cap (Q-SEAL).
Seal each unused connector on the Q Aggregator with a male sealing cap. Also, during construction, you
must use male sealing caps to temporarily seal any exposed IQ Micro connectors, that are not connected to
the Q Cable, to protect against moisture or water damage at the exposed connector.
Q Terminator
Install a terminator (Q-TERM) on any cut end of Q Cable that is not terminated with a Field Wireable Q
Connector.
Male connector on Q Cable
Female Sealing Cap (Q-SEAL)
Male Sealing Cap
(Q-BA-CAP)
Q Terminator on each cut end of
Q Cable
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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IQ System Design using the IQ Combiner
The Enphase IQ CombinerTM combines up to three AC branch
circuits of an IQ System, has an integrated IQ Envoy and is UL
listed. Using an IQ Combiner makes the customer “storage
ready,” as it also allows connection of Enphase IQ Battery
circuits. The IQ Combiner design and installation is similar to the
previous Enphase AC Combiner Box. The primary difference is
that it includes a pre-installed IQ Envoy. The IQ Combiner allows
for any combination of up to three branch circuits of IQ Micros or
IQ Batteries to be terminated within the enclosure. It’s important
that only Line 1 of each solar microinverter AC branch circuit
passes through the Production CT, as the IQ Battery circuits
should not be measured by the Production CT for proper storage
system function. You may run multiple Line 1 conductors for
each solar microinverter AC branch circuit through the production
CT, keeping in mind to wire the AC branch circuit Line 1
conductors with the arrow on the Production CT pointing from
the microinverters to the interconnection point. The IQ Combiner
includes three 20A overcurrent protection circuit breakers for the
individual microinverter or battery AC branch circuits, and a 5 A circuit breaker for protecting and switching
the IQ Envoy. The outdoor-rated enclosure of the IQ Combiner offers protection for the IQ Envoy, Mobile
Connect cellular (optional), and revenue-grade production metering.
When using the Q Aggregator for combining multiple branch circuits on the roof, the combined production
circuit CANNOT be terminated on any of the 20A circuit breakers within the IQ Combiner. It is still possible to
use an IQ Combiner in a system that uses a Q Aggregator for purpose of housing the IQ Envoy, but in this
scenario, the Q Aggregator combined output circuits must land at a separate breaker rated for the combined
inverter output current in a separate subpanel. Keep in mind that Line 1 of the combined output circuit
coming from the Q Aggregator must still pass through the production CT within the IQ Combiner, if the
system will be equipped with such.
Conceptual Schematic of IQ Combiner Installation
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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IQ System Design using the IQ Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3
The Enphase IQ Combiner+TM and IQ Combiner 3TM combine up to four AC branch circuits of an IQ System,
have integrated IQ Envoy and are UL listed. Using an IQ Combiner+ or IQ Combiner 3 makes the customer
“storage ready,” as it also allows connection of Enphase IQ Battery circuits. The IQ Combiner+ and IQ
Combiner 3 design allows for additional installation flexibility compared to the three circuit IQ Combiner, as it
now offers a fourth branch circuit for bigger systems and can accept 2-pole circuit breakers with higher
current rating for terminating the Q Aggregator output circuits.
IQ Combiner+ 19.4” x 18.3” x 6.3” IQ Combiner 3 19.5” x 14.75” x 6.63”
The IQ Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3 use an integrated Eaton BR Series busbar assembly for landing
installer-provided Eaton BR Series circuit breakers for the IQ system branch circuits. Make sure to separately
source the Eaton BR circuit breakers with the correct amp rating for the specific system design. The IQ
Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3 allow for any combination of up to four branch circuits of IQ Micros or IQ
Batteries to be terminated within the enclosure. The sum of the solar and/or storage branch circuit breakers
shall not exceed 80 A. Any combination of breaker amp ratings can be used providing more flexibility. See
example schematics below. The IQ Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3 also include a pre-installed 10 A circuit
breaker for protecting and switching the pre-wired IQ Envoy.
It’s important that only Line 1 of each solar microinverter AC branch circuit passes through the Production
CT, in the lower corner of the enclosure, as the IQ Battery circuits should not be measured by the Production
CT for proper storage system function. You may run multiple Line 1 conductors for each solar microinverter
AC branch circuit through the production CT, keeping in mind to wire the AC branch circuit Line 1 conductors
with the arrow on the CT pointing from the microinverters to the interconnection point. The outdoor-rated
enclosure of the IQ Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3 offers protection for the IQ Envoy, Mobile Connect cellular
(optional), and revenue-grade production metering.
When using the Q Aggregator for combining multiple branch circuits on the roof, the combined production
circuit can now be terminated on one of the 2-pole circuit breakers (provided by the installer) inside the IQ
Combiner+ or IQ Combiner 3. The amp rating of the 2-pole circuit breaker used for connection of the Q
Aggregator output circuit shall be no smaller than 1.25 times the sum of the continuous output current of all
the microinverters connected to that Q Aggregator, and cannot exceed 60A. It must also be suitable for
backfeed operation. Make sure the conductor size selected for field wire from Q Aggregator to the service
connection is adequate for the over current protective device (OCPD) chosen.
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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Conceptual Schematics of IQ Combiner 3 (or IQ Combiner+) Installation
Conceptual Schematics of IQ Combiner 3 (or IQ Combiner+) with Q Aggregator Installation
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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IQ System Design with Q Aggregator
The IQ Microinverter system introduces a new rooftop mounted, singlephase Q Aggregator (Q-BA-3-1P-60), which enables plug and play
termination and combining up to three microinverter AC branch circuits at
a single location. The Q Aggregator offers additional design options and
can help to lower balance of system installation costs for many projects.
Q AGGREGATOR SPECIFICATIONS
Model number
Q-BA-3-1P-60
Dimensions
190 mm (W) x 227 mm (D) x 80 mm (H)
[7.5 in (W) x 9 in (D) x 3.2 in (H)]
Enclosure rating
NEMA3 (up to 45° from horizontal)
Temperature range
-40° C to +55° C (-40° F to +122° F)
Compliance
UL1703, EN62109, UL6703A
Design Considerations for the Q Aggregator
The Q Aggregator:
• Is a roof mounted combiner box that supports up to three circuits.
• Requires protection at the feeder panel by an over current protective device (OCPD) rated at an
ampacity not to exceed 60A. Make sure the conductor size selected for field wire from Q Aggregator
to the service connection is adequate for the OCPD chosen.
• Allows for a single homerun back to the service of #12 to #4. The
homerun must consist of two ungrounded conductors (hots) and
one ground conductor to provide equipment grounding for the
racking and modules as required.
• Does not need neutral. A neutral is not needed for the IQ system
on the roof and need not be provided at the Q Aggregator.
• Includes 20A fuses permanently installed on the fuse board
contained within the Q Aggregator for providing individual over
current protection for each of three branch circuits. The fuses are
not consumer serviceable and are labeled as such on the lid of
the Q Aggregator.
• Must be installed underneath a solar module on the roof and out
of the direct sunlight. You may install the Q Aggregator beneath a
solar module, as per NEC 690.34 Access to Boxes.
• Ships with a mounting bracket for rail-based mounting where the mounting flange is flush with the lid
of the enclosure. Installers can rotate the mounting bracket so it is flush with the bottom of the
enclosure for mounting on an L-foot (e.g., for rail-less racking systems that do not have a rail to
which to mount the Q Aggregator).
• Requires sealing caps (Q-BA-CAP) to seal unused connectors on Q Aggregator. (These are the male
connectors/caps.) Each Q Aggregator ships with one spare Q-BA-CAP. If all three circuits are used,
we recommend that you keep the unused cap for a future installation.
• Greatly facilitates center-feeding. Center-feeding is the process of dividing a branch circuit into two
or more sub-branch circuits. When using Q Cable and the Q Aggregator, a center-fed branch circuit
is a single cable that can be fed from the Q Aggregator at any position along the circuit where an
open connector is available. Never loop back a circuit to more than one connection on the Q
Aggregator.
• When installing the Q Aggregator, you must consider the location of the IQ Envoy. The IQ Envoy is
installed in an enclosure. Some options are detailed below.
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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IQ Envoy Installation Options
IQ Combiner with Factory-Installed IQ Envoy
The IQ Envoy is factory-installed as part of the Enphase IQ Combiner, but in that case the Q Aggregator
circuit cannot terminate in the IQ Combiner if the total of the Q Aggregator’s microinverter output circuits
exceed 16A. The IQ Combiner with IQ Envoy contains three 20A branch circuit breakers and cannot support
larger breakers.
IQ Combiner 3 (or IQ Combiner+) with Factory-Installed IQ Envoy
The IQ Envoy is factory-installed as part of the Enphase IQ Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3, and the Q
Aggregator may be terminated on one of the 2-pole circuit breakers (provided by the installer). See details in
the IQ System Design using the IQ Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3 section above.
Conceptual Schematic of IQ Combiner 3 Installation with Q Aggregator
Installing the IQ Envoy in an Outdoor Enclosure with a Solar Subpanel
When planning an Enphase IQ System, which requires two or more microinverter branch circuits, and no
Enphase IQ Combiner is available to meet the system design, use the following information when designing
and installing compliant Enphase IQ Systems using alternate electrical equipment.
Using alternate electrical equipment in lieu of an Enphase IQ Combiner product is how systems were
installed prior to the availability of the IQ Combiner. This method is fully acceptable from an electrical and
code compliance perspective as an alternative to design with an IQ Combiner product. It is the qualified
installer’s responsibility to meet local codes. The following guidelines and examples illustrate how to design
and install such a system.
Design Considerations for the IQ Microinverter Systems without an IQ Combiner
To install an Enphase IQ System with two or more microinverter branch circuits without an IQ Combiner
product, you need the following electrical components:
• An AC load center from any major brand. We will call this the solar subpanel. The solar subpanel
must:
o Contain enough spaces to accommodate the number of two-pole breakers required for the
Enphase IQ Envoy, plus the number of microinverter branch circuits
o Have a total ampacity rating sufficient for the design
o Be main lug only. Proper over current protection per code requirements must be provided
o Be rated for the environment it is installed in (indoor versus outdoor)
• A two-pole, up to 20A circuit breaker for connecting the IQ Envoy
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• One 2-pole, 20A circuit breaker for each microinverter branch circuit, suitable for backfeed operation
• A NEMA type 3R, 4, or better enclosure with hinged or screw cover for housing the IQ Envoy
• An IQ Envoy (ENV-IQ-AM1-240)
• Miscellaneous conduits, fittings and conductors to make a code compliant installation
Conceptual Schematic of an IQ Envoy and Solar Subpanel Installation
Installing the IQ Envoy in an Outdoor Enclosure
The IQ Envoy must be installed inside an electrical enclosure for protection and to keep the operating
temperature of the IQ Envoy within range. This enclosure must be large enough to house the IQ Envoy. The
enclosure can be metal or non-metallic but should be non-metallic if wi-fi or an Enphase Mobile Connect
cellular network is used for the Internet connection. The enclosure must meet the following requirements:
Use a NEMA type 3R, 4, or better rated outdoor enclosure with hinged cover or screw cover of suitable
dimensions. Typical enclosure dimensions are in the range of 10” x 10” x 4” to 12” x 12” x 6”.
IQ Envoy Requirements
• Comply with all instructions found in the IQ Envoy Quick Install Guide
• It is important to locate the IQ Envoy next to the solar subpanel and electrically connected in the
solar subpanel.
• When installing the IQ Envoy in an enclosure, choose an area for installation where ambient
temperature does not exceed 46º C (115º F).
• The IQ Envoy does not ship with a plug-in style power cord and must be hard-wired to two lines and
a neutral for power, microinverter communication, and to support production and consumption
metering. Therefore, a receptacle is not required in the enclosure for powering the IQ Envoy.
o Only if an Ethernet over powerline communication (PLC) bridge is desired should a
receptacle be installed inside the enclosure. The enclosures listed on page 3 provide
adequate room for a receptacle, if needed.
• The enclosure should be installed in a location that is shaded from extensive periods of direct
sunlight. The IQ Envoy is rated for ambient temperatures of -40°F to 115°F when installed in an
enclosure.
• If mounted outdoors, do not drill holes on the top of the enclosure or anywhere that allows moisture
ingress.
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• Consider placing the enclosure in a location that is accessible by service personnel without requiring
indoor access.
• The IQ Envoy ships with a production CT. This must be installed in the solar subpanel to meter the
microinverter branch circuit conductors.
• Metering CT requirements:
o Use a protected route in conduit for the production CT wires from the solar subpanel to the
IQ Envoy. If you also use consumption CTs, use protected route in conduit from the main
service panel or main service feeder access point to the IQ Envoy
o Pass Line 1 only of each microinverter branch circuit through the production CT. The
microinverter branch circuit Line 1 conductor must be electrically on the same busbar as the
Line 1 conductor feeding the IQ Envoy.
o You may run multiple Line 1 conductors for each microinverter branch circuit through the
production CT. Remember to wire the microinverter branch circuit Line 1 conductors with the
arrow on the production CT pointing from the microinverters to the interconnection point.
o Do not extend the production CT sense wires.
Consumption CT wires can be extended if needed. Follow recommendations in IQ Envoy Installation and
Operation Manual.
Enclosure Options for the IQ Envoy
Arlington EB1212-BP Enclosure with back plate
• Lockable unit dimensions are 12" x 12" x 4"
• Easily accommodates the addition of a field-
wired receptacle, if needed
• Outdoor rated with hinged door opening
upward, but indoor rated with hinge to side
• (Vents shown are not included)
Orbit 57905 Timer Cabinet
• Back plate included, NEMA3R, lockable
• Approximate dimensions are 11"x10"x5"
• Includes a receptacle pre-installed (not
wired)
• Mounting plate and IQ Envoy must be
removed to install back mounting screws
• Tight wiring space for IQ Envoy with PLC
bridge
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
15
Integra H12104H*** Enclosures
• Strong metal or poly backplate options,
NEMA4, lockable
• Approximate dimensions are 10"x12"x5"
• Easily accommodates addition of a field
wired receptacle, if needed
• Manufacturer provides a wide variety of
enclosure options, including mounting tabs,
and vents
Attabox AH12106 Enclosure with BP1210A back plate
• Strong metal or poly backplate options, NEMA4, lockable
• Approximate dimensions are 10"x12"x5"
• Easily accommodates the addition of a field wired receptacle, if needed
• Manufacturer provides a wide variety of enclosure options, including mounting tabs, and vents
Cantex 5133714 Enclosure with Cover and Gasket
• NEMA4, PVC electrical enclosure
• Approximate dimensions are 12” x 12” x 6”
• Requires eight screws to install or remove cover and gasket
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Field Wireable Q Connectors and Raw Q Cable
The IQ Microinverter System makes complex installations simple.
Field Wireable Q Connectors (Q-CONN-10F and Q-CONN-10M) and raw Q Cable (Q-12-RAW-300) allow a
wide-range of installation options that are not available in DC systems or other microinverter systems. You
can run raw Q Cable through conduits, raceways, or chases between sub-arrays to help to minimize the
amount of conduit, conduit bending, wire-pulls, and wiring connections that are required on a project.
The raw Q Cable is available in 300m (984ft) cable rolls (Q-12-RAW-300).
You must terminate the raw Q Cable in one of the following manners:
• Into a junction box using a ½” service entrance (SE) strain reliefs, UF cable glands, or Heyco® -Tite
Liquid Tight Cordgrips for Enphase Q Cables
• With a Field Wireable Q Connector (male or female)
Female Field Wireable
Q Connector
Male Field Wireable
Q Connector
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
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Splicing Q Cable and Raw Q Cable with Junction Boxes
For complex installations that include multiple arrays, it is possible to use raw Q Cable (Q-12-RAW-300) to
service the arrays and branch circuits that do originate directly at the primary roof mounted junction box. In
the case that Field Wireable Q Connectors are not readily available, a small junction box may be used to
splice two sections of Q Cable together or may be used to splice Q Cable to raw Q Cable.
The raw Q Cable is available in 300m (984ft) cable rolls (Q-12-RAW-300).
You must terminate the raw Q Cable in one of the following manners:
• Into a junction box using a ½” service entrance (SE) strain reliefs, UF cable glands, or Heyco® -Tite
Liquid Tight Cordgrips for Enphase Q Cables
• With a Field Wireable Q Connector (male or female)
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Example IQ Microinverter System Layouts and Bill of Materials (BOMs)
Conceptual Image
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
© 2018 Enphase Energy Inc. All rights reserved. December 13, 2018
19
Scenario 1: Simple 12 Module Scenario
Bill of Materials for Scenario 1: Simple 12 Module Scenario
QTY
Part Number
Description
12
IQ6PLUS-72-2-US
Enphase IQ 6+ Microinverter, compatible with 60- and 72-cell PV modules, 290VA
peak power, MC4 DC connectors, female AC connector
12 of 240
Q-12-10-240
Q Cable for 60/72 cell 1.0m portrait module pitch. Connector pitch is 1.3m. 240
Male connectors plus two bonus link connectors
0 of 10
Q-SEAL-10
Female sealing cap for unused Q Cable connectors. Pack of 10
1 of 10
Q-TERM-10
Q Terminator for Q Cable ends. Center feed requires two per branch. Pack of 10
22 of 100
Q-CLIP-100
Q Cable rail mount cable management clip. Pack of 100
1 of 10
Q-DISC-10
Disconnect tool for Q Cable connectors, MC and Amphenol DC connectors, and
AC module mount. Pack of 10
1
X-IQ-AM1-240-B M
Enphase IQ Combiner with IQ Envoy, 60A, single phase, revenue grade accuracy
(ANSI C12.20 +/- 0.5%) with calibrated solid-core CT
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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20
Scenario 2: 24 Module, Two Strings of 12, Terminated at Junction Box
Bill of Materials for Scenario 2: 24 Modules, Two Strings of 12 Terminated at Junction Box
QTY
Part Number
Description
24
IQ6PLUS-72-2-US
Enphase IQ 6+ Microinverter, compatible with 60- and 72-cell PV modules,
290VA peak power, MC4 DC connectors, female AC connector
26 of 240
Q-12-10-240
Q Cable for 60/72 cell 1.0m portrait module pitch. Connector pitch is 1.3m. 240
Male connectors plus two bonus link connectors
x ft of 984
Q-12-RAW-300
Q Cable, 12 AWG, no connectors, 300m (984ft) length
2 of 10
Q-SEAL-10
Female sealing cap for unused Q Cable connectors. Pack of 10
3 of 10
Q-TERM-10
Q Terminator for Q Cable ends. Center feed requires two per branch. Pack of 10
2 of 10
Q-CONN-10F
Female Field Wireable Q Connector for Q Cable. Pack of 10 connector bodies
with 25 Female MC4 Tool crimpable terminals
2 of 10
Q-CONN-10M
Male Field Wireable Q Connector for Q Cable. Pack of 10 connector bodies with
25 Male MC4 Tool crimpable terminals
47 of 100
Q-CLIP-100
Q Cable rail mount cable management clip. Pack of 100
1 of 10
Q-DISC-10
Disconnect tool for Q Cable connectors, MC and Amphenol DC connectors, and
AC module mount. Pack of 10
1
X-IQ-AM1-240-2 M
Enphase IQ Combiner+ with IQ Envoy, 80A, 240V split-phase, revenue grade
accuracy (ANSI C12.20 +/- 0.5%) with calibrated solid-core CT
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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21
Scenario 3: 24 Module, Two Strings of 12, Terminated at Q Aggregator
Bill of Materials for Scenario: 24 Modules, Two Strings of 12 Terminated at Q Aggregator
QTY
Part Number
Description
24
IQ6PLUS-72-2-US
Enphase IQ 6+ Microinverter, compatible with 60- and 72-cell PV modules, 290VA
peak power, MC4 DC connectors, female AC connector
27 of 240
Q-12-10-240
Q Cable for 60/72 cell 1.0m portrait module pitch. Connector pitch is 1.3m. 240 Male
connectors plus two bonus link connectors
x ft of 984
Q-12-RAW-300
Q Cable, 12 AWG, no connectors, 300m (984ft) length
2 of 10
Q-SEAL-10
Female sealing cap for unused Q Cable connectors. Pack of 10
3 of 10
Q-TERM-10
Q Terminator for Q Cable ends. Center feed requires two per branch. Pack of 10
2 of 10
Q-CONN-10F
Female Field Wireable Q Connector for Q Cable. Pack of 10 connector bodies with
25 Female MC4 tool crimpable terminals
2 of 10
Q-CONN-10M
Male Field Wireable Q Connector for Q Cable. Pack of 10 connector bodies with 25
Male MC4 tool crimpable terminals
47 of 100
Q-CLIP-100
Q Cable rail mount cable management clip. Pack of 100
1 of 10
Q-DISC-10
Disconnect tool for Q Cable connectors, MC and Amphenol DC connectors, and AC
module mount. Pack of 10
1
Q-BA-3-1P-60
Single-phase branch aggregator, One to three female inputs, 60A max 2L+PE
output. Includes one Q-BA-CAP
1
ENV-IQ-AM1-240 M
Enphase IQ Envoy, single phase, metered. Revenue grade accuracy (ANSI C12.20
+/- 0.5%) with calibrated solid-core CT
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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22
Wire Management of AC and DC Cables Under Array
Since the Q Cable contains only two conductors, it is much smaller and lighter than the previous generation
Engage Cable. For this reason, we use cable clips with a reduced wire retention area for the Q Cable. The
outer dimensions of the Q Cable allow it to be supported by many of the existing PV cable clips and USE-2
cable clips that are frequently used for supporting the DC module leads today.
Enphase has evaluated and developed wire clips for a wide variety of applications; including rail based
applications, rail-less applications, and AC Module applications. These clips are listed later in this section.
DC Cable Adapters for IQ Microinverters
The IQ Series -2 Micros ship with MultiContact MC4 DC connectors. You can order
Amphenol UTX DC connectors, if needed. Remove the DC connector assembly on the
microinverter and replace it using the Disconnect tool for Q Cable connectors (Q-DISC).
You can use this tool to disconnect both the AC and DC connectors on the microinverter
and disconnect MC4 and UTX connectors. On the AC Module with Enphase IQ Micro, the
Disconnect tool also provides the means to releases the microinverter install snaps to
lower the inverter into shipping orientation if needed.
Replacement DC adaptors are available for IQ Microinverters:
Q-DCC-2
IQ Microinverter Replacement Adaptor for MultiContact MC4 DC Connector
Q-DCC-5
IQ Microinverter Replacement Adaptor for Amphenol UTX DC Connector
Wire Management Clips for Attaching Q Cable to Solar Mounting
Rails
The Enphase Q Clip (Q-CLIP-100) allows you to manage one or two Q Cables or raw Q
Cables to a solar mounting rail. We have evaluated a large selection of racking systems
and have found that this clip works with about 90% of the racking systems available.
These clips support the cable along the rail and may be adequate for supporting the
cabling during row to row transitions (depending on cable length), but additional support may be provided
from module frame clips. Use at least one clip or other support for every six feet of cable.
Wire Management Clips for Attaching Q Cable to Module Frames for Rail-less and
AC Module Applications
There are a variety of products available for supporting DC module leads off the roof. Most of the wire clips
available for PV cable and for USE-2 cable can also be used to attach Q Cable to module frames. Attaching
Q Cable to module frames can be useful for rail-less racking systems since there is no rail to support the
cabling on. Also, for AC Module installations, it is often more convenient to clip the Q Cable to the module
frame than to clip the Q Cable to the racking system (if available).
Disconnect Tool
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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23
You must support the Q Cable and raw Q Cable at intervals not to exceed 6 feet and make sure that the
cable does not touch the roof surface.
Manufacturer
Model
Image
Nine Fasteners
DCS-1307 PV cable clip
DCS-1306 USE-2 cable clip
Burndy / Wiley Electronics
ACME ACC-PV PV cable clip
Heyco Products
SunRunner PV cable clip
Supporting the DC Module Leads
Prepare the modules using clips on the DC module leads to prevent the leads from resting on the roof. It is
best to prepare the modules on the ground, before installation. Install the wire clips and DC module leads to
allow for easy connection to the microinverter while also supporting the conductors off the roof.
Once the modules are prepared, install them on the racking. Secure any loose wires or cables to the module
frames with properly sized wire clips. Ensure that all conductors are supported off the roof.
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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24
AC Wire Management at the Junction Box or Q Aggregator
Wire management practices at the junction box are critical to the long-term reliability of any PV system.
Installers often install the roof-mounted junction box on the side of a rail. If using the Q Aggregator, it must be
installed underneath the modules.
For Junction Box Applications
Follow these recommendations to prevent moisture from accumulating in the junction box. This helps to
improve system reliability while ensuring that the wiring connections last for the life of the system.
• Make sure that cables enter the junction box from the side or from the bottom, never from the top
where water can enter the enclosure.
• Install cables with a drip loop. Secure the cable so that water drains away from the cable entry.
• Use properly sized strain reliefs and cord grips. Note that the Q Cable is elliptical, so the cable gland
securing the Q Cable must contain an inner gland designed for elliptical cable. These cable glands
are commonly available from electrical distributors or home improvement stores and are often
available under the following names:
– ½” Service Entrance (SE) Watertight Connectors
– UF Cable Glands
– Heyco® -Tite Liquid Tight Cordgrips for Enphase Q Cables
- M3231GCZ (1/2˝ NPT) and M3234GDA-SM (3/4˝ NPT).
- The 1/2˝ version provides liquid tight entry for one Enphase Q Cable – .24 x .38˝ (6,1 x
9,7 mm).
- The 3/4˝ version provides liquid tight entry for up to two Enphase Q Cables – .24 x .38”
(6,1 x 9,7 mm) and an additional .130” (3,3 mm) dia. hole for a #8 solid grounding cable.
- The 3/4” version uses our skinned-over technology, so any unused holes will retain a
liquid tight seal.
• Properly tighten the strain reliefs to prevent cable movement and to prevent water ingress.
• Install the junction box to meet the manufacturer’s recommended mounting and orientation
requirements. Use NEMA 4 enclosures. (NEMA 3 enclosures have a limited mounting orientation
range and may not accommodate typical rooftop installations.)
• Consider drilling a small drain hole in the bottom, lowermost corners of the junction box, so that
moisture or condensate can drain out of the junction box.
For Q Aggregator Applications
• Install the Q Aggregator underneath the solar modules.
• Be sure to seal any unused connectors on the Q Aggregator with the male sealing caps (Q-BA-CAP).
• Always install the Q Aggregator with the removable cover facing upward, and at angles below 45º
from horizontal, to ensure the NEMA 3 rating. The Q Aggregator ships with drain holes in the bottom,
so must be installed with the cover facing up, even on ground mounted installations.
• The mounting bracket is reversible in the event a bottom mounting position is needed.
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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25
Installing IQ Microinverters with Frame Mount Bracket
You can use the Enphase Frame Mount to attach the Enphase Microinverters directly to module frames. This
may be the ideal solution for rail-less racking solutions, whether residential or commercial. When using the
Enphase Frame Mount product, you can support the Q Cable to keep it off the roof by clipping it to the
module frames using the same module edge wire clips that work with PV cable and USE-2 cable.
Installing the Power Line Filter (Q-LCF-064-1P)
The IQ Microinverter system uses a new generation of Power Line Communication (PLC), making device
detection and communication between the IQ Micros and IQ Envoy the fastest and most robust yet. For
advanced functionality and Home Energy Systems that use the Enphase IQ Battery, the IQ Envoy will not
only monitor the generation and storage devices, but also control them. Best practices described in this
document around IQ Envoy location and electrical connection within the system provide the best approach
for ensuring strong and lasting PLC performance. In the rare instances where local conditions on the
electrical system have noise levels that interfere with the PLC, optional single-phase line communication
filtering that isolates the Enphase Home Energy System equipment from the noise source and/or rest of the
electrical system at the site, is now available.
The single-phase line communication filter (Q-LCF-064-1P) provides line-to-line filtering specifically for IQ
systems, but is not required for most systems and should not be specified in every design of residential
systems. When needed, the line filter provides a reliable means to mitigate issues with site electrical noise
should they arise and interfere with communications. To minimize the cost of adding line filtering to a system,
it makes sense to design the system so that a filter can be retrofitted into the system later with ease. Simply
locate the IQ Envoy and the IQ Microinverter circuits off a common sub panel. The IQ Combiner, IQ
Combiner+ and IQ Combiner 3 are perfect for that purpose. If designing a system with a Q Aggregator, we
recommend landing the Q Aggregator output circuit in a sub panel alongside the IQ Envoy so it does not
have to later be moved to the array side of a line filter, should that be added.
The single-phase line communication filter may also be used to separate communication domains of sites
that have multiple Envoys, or sites where a neighbor’s home also has an Enphase Microinverter system.
The PLC signals used for communicating between the IQ Envoy and the IQ Microinverters is fundamentally
different from the PLC signals used with previous generation Enphase Microinverter systems. The IQ Micros
use line-to-line communications, where previous generation Enphase Microinverter systems use line to
neutral communications. For this reason, the IQ systems are not compatible with previous generation
Enphase Microinverter systems. Enphase will continue to provide microinverter and Envoy products that are
compatible with legacy systems, and line filtering may be used to isolate an Enphase IQ Microinverter
System from a previous generation Enphase Microinverter systems.
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Planning for an IQ Microinverter System
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26
Specifications of Q-LCF-064-1P Filter
• Shall be installed within a suitable enclosure.
• Wire Enphase IQ Envoy/Micros on the load side and utility/site loads on the line side of the filter.
• Wiring terminals accept #4 to #22 conductors
• 250VAC / 64A maximum continuous inverter output current rating
• Protect with maximum 80A overcurrent protection device (OCPD)
• -25°C to 65°C
• Recommended tightening torque of 2 to 2.8 Nm
Schematic of Q-LCF-064-1P Filter Installation
Mechanicals of Q-LCF-064-1P Filter (all dimensions in mm)
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