/ Battery Charging Systems / Welding Technology / Solar Electronics
EN
Fronius String Control 250/30
Operating Instructions
System monitoring
42,0426,0134,EN 007-30082013
0
Dear reader,
Introduction Thank you for the trust you have placed in our company and congratulations on buying this
high-quality Fronius product. These instructions will help you familiarise yourself with the
product. Reading the instructions carefully will enable you to learn about the many different
features it has to offer. This will allow you to make full use of its advantages.
Please also note the safety rules to ensure greater safety when using the product. Careful
handling of the product will repay you with years of safe and reliable operation. These are
essential prerequisites for excellent results.
EN
1
2
Contents
Safety rules ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Explanation of safety symbols .............................................................................................................. 5
General ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Proper use ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Environmental conditions...................................................................................................................... 6
Qualified service engineers................................................................................................................... 6
Safety measures at the installation location.......................................................................................... 6
EMC Device Classifications .................................................................................................................. 7
EMC measures ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Electrical installations............................................................................................................................ 7
Protective measures against ESD ........................................................................................................ 7
Safety measures in normal operation ................................................................................................... 7
Safety symbol ....................................................................................................................................... 7
Disposal ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Data protection...................................................................................................................................... 8
Copyright............................................................................................................................................... 8
General ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
Device concept ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Functional principle ............................................................................................................................... 9
Inverter.................................................................................................................................................. 9
Other system requirements................................................................................................................... 9
Proper use ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Scope of supply .................................................................................................................................... 10
Option ................................................................................................................................................... 10
Terms and abbreviations used.............................................................................................................. 10
Warning notices on the device.............................................................................................................. 11
Description of the device............................................................................................................................ 12
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 12
Description of the device: housing ........................................................................................................ 12
Description of the device: inside the device.......................................................................................... 13
Installing the Fronius String Control 250/30............................................................................................... 15
Selecting wall plugs and screws ........................................................................................................... 15
Installation position ............................................................................................................................... 15
Selecting a location............................................................................................................................... 15
Installing the Fronius String Control 250/30.......................................................................................... 15
Fitting metric screw joints to the Fronius String Control 250/30................................................................. 17
General ................................................................................................................................................. 17
Recommended order in which to insert the metric screw joints ............................................................ 17
Fitting metric screw joints to the Fronius String Control 250/30............................................................ 17
Tightening torques for metric screw joints ............................................................................................ 18
Connecting the Fronius String Control 250/30 to the inverter ....................................................................19
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 19
Connecting aluminium cables ............................................................................................................... 19
Preparation ........................................................................................................................................... 19
Connection with V-type terminal lug ..................................................................................................... 20
Connection with cable lug ..................................................................................................................... 20
Connecting the Fronius String Control 250/30 to the inverter............................................................... 20
Connecting solar module strings to the Fronius String Control 250/30...................................................... 21
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 21
Notes on connecting the solar module strings to the Fronius String Control 250/30 ........................... 21
Pin assignment for grounded solar modules......................................................................................... 22
Example of pin assignment for grounded solar modules ...................................................................... 22
Connecting solar module strings to the Fronius String Control 250/30 ................................................ 22
Criteria for selecting the right string fuses.................................................................................................. 23
General ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Criteria for selecting the right string fuses............................................................................................. 23
Effects of using underrated fuses ......................................................................................................... 23
Fuse recommendations ........................................................................................................................ 23
Application example.............................................................................................................................. 23
Fuses .................................................................................................................................................... 24
EN
3
Fitting string fuses...................................................................................................................................... 25
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 25
Selecting string fuses............................................................................................................................ 25
Fitting string fuses................................................................................................................................. 25
Connecting data communication cables to the Fronius String Control 250/30 .......................................... 26
Linking options ...................................................................................................................................... 26
Additional insulation for data communication cables ............................................................................ 26
Configuration example .......................................................................................................................... 26
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 27
Connecting the RJ45 data communication cables to the Fronius String Control 250/30 ...................... 27
Connecting multi-core data communication cables to the Fronius String Control 250/30 .................... 29
Overcurrent and undervoltage cut-out ....................................................................................................... 30
General ................................................................................................................................................. 30
Functional principle ............................................................................................................................... 30
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 30
Restoring the power supply automatically ............................................................................................ 30
Restoring the power supply manually ................................................................................................... 31
Connecting an external power supply ........................................................................................................ 32
General ................................................................................................................................................. 32
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 32
Connecting an external power supply................................................................................................... 32
Setting the address .................................................................................................................................... 34
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 34
General ................................................................................................................................................. 34
Setting the address - examples ............................................................................................................ 34
Closing the Fronius String Control 250/30 ................................................................................................. 35
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 35
Closing the Fronius String Control 250/30 ............................................................................................ 35
Settings ...................................................................................................................................................... 36
General ................................................................................................................................................. 36
Step one................................................................................................................................................ 36
Possible settings for the Fronius String Control 250/30 ........................................................................ 36
Strings per measuring channel ............................................................................................................. 36
Max. energy deviation........................................................................................................................... 36
Threshold .............................................................................................................................................. 36
Data and status message display .............................................................................................................. 37
Data display .......................................................................................................................................... 37
Status codes ......................................................................................................................................... 37
Status diagnostics and troubleshooting ..................................................................................................... 38
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 38
Status diagnostics and troubleshooting ................................................................................................ 38
Replace the string fuses ............................................................................................................................ 39
Safety.................................................................................................................................................... 39
Preparation ........................................................................................................................................... 39
Replacing the string fuses..................................................................................................................... 39
And finally... .......................................................................................................................................... 40
Technical data............................................................................................................................................ 41
Technical data....................................................................................................................................... 41
.............................................................................................................................................................. 42
4
Safety rules
EN
Explanation of
safety symbols
General
DANGER! indicates immediate and real danger. If it is not avoided, death or se-
rious injury will result.
WARNING! indicates a potentially dangerous situation. Death or serious injury
may result if appropriate precautions are not taken.
CAUTION! indicates a situation where damage or injury could occur. If it is not
avoided, minor injury and/or damage to property may result.
NOTE! indicates a risk of flawed results and possible damage to the equipment.
IMPORTANT! indicates tips for correct operation and other particularly useful information.
It does not indicate a potentially damaging or dangerous situation.
If you see any of the symbols depicted in the "Safety rules", special care is required.
The device is manufactured using state-of-the-art technology and according
to recognised safety standards. If used incorrectly or misused, however, it can
cause
- injury or death to the operator or a third party,
- damage to the device and other material assets belonging to the operating company,
- inefficient operation of the device.
All persons involved in commissioning, maintaining and servicing the device
must
- be suitably qualified,
- have knowledge of and experience in dealing with electrical installations
and
- read and follow these operating instructions carefully.
The operating instructions must always be at hand wherever the device is being used. In addition to the operating instructions, attention must also be paid
to any generally applicable and local regulations regarding accident prevention and environmental protection.
All safety and danger notices on the device
- must be kept in a legible state
- must not be damaged/marked
- must not be removed
- must not be covered, pasted or painted over.
For the location of the safety and danger notices on the device, refer to the
section headed "General remarks" in the operating instructions for the device.
Before switching on the device, rectify any malfunctions that could compromise safety.
Your personal safety is at stake!
5
Proper use
The device is to be used exclusively for its intended purpose.
Any use above and beyond this purpose is deemed improper. The manufacturer shall not be liable for any damage resulting from such improper use.
Proper use also includes:
- carefully reading and obeying all the instructions and all the safety and
danger notices in the operating instructions
- performing all stipulated inspection and servicing work
- installation as specified in the operating instructions
The following guidelines should also be applied where relevant:
- Regulations of the company providing the mains power supply
- Instructions from the PV module manufacturer
Environmental
conditions
Qualified service
engineers
Operation or storage of the device outside the stipulated area will be deemed
as "not in accordance with the intended purpose". The manufacturer shall not
be held liable for any damage arising from such usage.
For exact information on permitted environmental conditions, please refer to
the "Technical data" in the operating instructions.
The servicing information contained in these operating instructions is intended
only for the use of qualified service engineers. An electric shock can be fatal.
Do not perform any actions other than those described in the documentation.
This applies even if you are qualified to do so.
All cables and leads must be secure, undamaged, insulated and adequately
dimensioned. Loose connections, scorched, damaged or inadequately dimensioned cables and leads must be immediately repaired by authorised personnel.
Maintenance and repair work must only be carried out by authorised personnel.
It is impossible to guarantee that bought-in parts are designed and manufactured to meet the demands made of them, or that they satisfy safety requirements. Use only original spare parts (also applies to standard parts).
Do not carry out any modifications, alterations, etc. to the device without the
manufacturer's consent.
Components that are not in perfect condition must be changed immediately.
Safety measures
at the installation
location
6
When installing devices with openings for cooling air, ensure that the cooling air can enter
and exit unhindered through the air ducts. Only operate the charger in accordance with the
degree of protection shown on the rating plate.
EMC Device Classifications
Devices in emission class A:
- Are only designed for use in industrial settings
- Can cause line-bound and radiated interference in other areas
Devices in emission class B:
- Satisfy the emissions criteria for residential and industrial areas.
This is also true for residential areas in which the energy is supplied from the public low-voltage mains.
EMC device classification as per the rating plate or technical data.
EN
EMC measures
Electrical installations
Protective measures against ESD
In certain cases, even though a device complies with the standard limit values
for emissions, it may affect the application area for which it was designed (e.g.
when there is sensitive equipment at the same location, or if the site where the
device is installed is close to either radio or television receivers). If this is the
case, then the operator is obliged to take appropriate action to rectify the situation.
Electrical installations must only be set up set up to the relevant national and
local standards and regulations.
Danger of damage to electrical components from electrical discharge. Suitable
measures should be taken to protect against ESD when replacing and installing components.
Safety measures
in normal operation
Safety symbol
Only operate the device if all safety devices are fully functional. If the safety
devices are not fully functional, there is a risk of
- injury or death to the operator or a third party,
- damage to the device and other material assets belonging to the operator,
- inefficient operation of the device.
Any safety devices that are not functioning properly must be repaired by a suitably qualified engineer before the device is switched on.
Never bypass or disable safety devices.
Devices with the CE mark satisfy the essential requirements of the low-voltage
and electromagnetic compatibility directives. Further details can be found in
the appendix or the section headed "Technical data" in your documentation.
7
Disposal
Do not dispose of this device with normal domestic waste! To comply with the
European Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment and its implementation as national law, electrical equipment that has
reached the end of its life must be collected separately and returned to an approved recycling facility. Any device that you no longer require must either be
returned to your dealer or given to one of the approved collection and recycling
facilities in your area. Ignoring this European Directive may have potentially
adverse affects on the environment and your health!
Data protection
Copyright
The user is responsible for the safekeeping of any changes made to the factory settings. The manufacturer accepts no liability for any deleted personal
settings.
Copyright of these operating instructions remains with the manufacturer.
The text and illustrations are all technically correct at the time of printing. We
reserve the right to make changes. The contents of the operating instructions
shall not provide the basis for any claims whatsoever on the part of the purchaser. If you have any suggestions for improvement, or can point out any
mistakes that you have found in the instructions, we will be most grateful for
your comments.
8
General
Device concept The Fronius String Control 250/30 is designed for use in grid-connected photovoltaic sys-
tems with multiple solar module strings.
Between 10 and 30 solar module strings can be combined at the input to the Fronius String
Control 250/30 in order to reduce it to just one DC+ and one DC- main line at the output.
The Fronius String Control 250/30 monitors the incoming solar module strings in order to
detect errors in the solar module field.
If used together with a Fronius monitoring system (e.g. Fronius Solar.web, etc.) and a
Fronius Datalogger, status codes can also be sent by e-mail or SMS. This means that a
faulty solar module will be quickly detected.
EN
Functional principle
Inverter The Fronius String Control 250/30 is only suitable for use with the following Fronius invert-
Other system requirements
- Up to six incoming solar module strings are combined to form a single measuring
channel.
- Five measuring channels record the total current from the connected solar module
strings over the entire feed-in day.
- In the evening, the Fronius String Control 250/30 calculates the mean value for all
measuring channels.
- The Fronius String Control 250/30 compares the current of each measuring channel
against the mean value for all measuring channels.
- If the Fronius String Control 250/30 detects that one of the measuring channels is deviating from this mean, a status code is sent to the Fronius Datalogger.
- The permitted deviation from the mean can be defined as required.
ers:
- Fronius Agilo
- Fronius CL
- Fronius Datalogger
- Fronius system monitoring
- PC with the Fronius Solar.access software installed
- or PC with internet connection and access to Fronius Solar.web
Proper use The device is intended solely for use as a collector and measuring device for the DC strings
of the PV modules. The device may only be used with an inverter that complies with the
statutory regulations of the installation site.
Any use above and beyond this purpose is deemed improper. The manufacturer shall not
be held liable for any damage arising from such usage.
Proper use also includes complying with all the instructions in the operating instructions.
9
Scope of supply - 1 Fronius String Control 250/30
- 2 M40 metric screw joints with lock nuts
- 22 M32 metric screw joints with lock nuts
- 20 3-way 6 mm rubber inserts for M32 screw joint
- 20 3-way 7 mm rubber inserts for M32 screw joint
- 20 3-way 8 mm rubber inserts for M32 screw joint
- 11 vent plugs for 3-way 6 mm rubber inserts
- 10 vent plugs for 3-way 7 mm rubber inserts
- 10 vent plugs for 3-way 8 mm rubber inserts
- 10 dummy inserts for M32 screw joints
- 1 M20 metric screw joint with lock nut
- 2 M20 metric blank screw joint
- 1 M25 metric screw joint with lock nut
- 2 M40/M32 reducers
- 1 rubber insert 2x6 mm
- 1 silicone tube (pre-assembled for data communications cable)
- 1 fire prevention leaflet
- 1 upper mounting tab (incl. 5 screws)
- 1 lower mounting tab (incl. 2 screws)
- these operating instructions
Option If type 1 or 2 overvoltage protection is required, it can be fitted in the Fronius String Control
250/30 on the DIN rail provided for this purpose.
Terms and abbreviations used
DC 'OUT' cable The Fronius String Control 250/30 DC output cable to the invert-
er;
the polarity of the DC 'OUT' cables depends on how the solar
module strings are connected to the Fronius String Control 250/
30.
DC 'IN' cable Solar module strings from the solar modules to the Fronius
String Control 250/30;
a solar module string consists of a DC+ cable and a DC- cable.
10
Warning notices
on the device
There are warning notices and safety symbols affixed to the Fronius String Control 250/30.
These warning notices and safety symbols must not be removed or painted over. They
warn against operating the device incorrectly, as this may result in serious injury and damage.
Safety symbols:
EN
Risk of serious injury and damage due to incorrect operation
Do not use the functions described here until you have thoroughly read and understood the following documents:
- these operating instructions
- all the operating instructions for the system components of the photovoltaic
system, especially the safety rules
Dangerous electrical voltage
Do not dispose of used devices with domestic waste. Dispose of them according
to safety rules.
Text of the warning notices:
WARNING!
An electric shock can be fatal.
Danger from DC voltage in solar modules.
More than one power supply source. Disconnect from all power supply sources before
starting any maintenance work.
Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before
opening the device.
Dangerous voltage from solar modules that are exposed to light!
The connection compartment may only be opened by qualified electricians.
11
Description of the device
(6)(7)
(8) (9)
(10)
(11)
Safety
Description of the
device: housing
(1)
(2) (4)(3)
WARNING! Operating the equipment incorrectly can cause serious injury and
damage. Do not use the functions described until you have thoroughly read and
understood the following documents:
- these operating instructions
- all the operating instructions for the system components, especially the safety rules
(6)(5)
Fronius String Control 250/30 - Oblique view from the
front
Item Description
(1) Housing
(2) Upper mounting tab
(3) Cover
(4) Cover fasteners
(5) Lower mounting tab
(6) Pressure equalisation membrane
(7) Cable entry for M20 metric screw joint
(for AC power pack)
Cable diameter 8 - 13 mm
Only required if optional DIN rail power pack is used.
(8) Cable entry for M20 metric screw joint
(for grounding cable)
Cable diameter 8 - 13 mm
Only required if optional overvoltage protection is used.
(9) Cable entry for M25 metric screw joint
(for data communication cables)
Fronius String Control 250/30 - Underside
12
Description of the
(1)
(9)
(2) (5) (6) (7)(4) (8)
(10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
(3)
device: inside the
device
Item Description
(10) Cable entry for M32 metric screw joint
(for DC 'IN' cable)
with 3-way rubber inserts for cable diameters 5 mm, 6.5 mm and 7.5 mm
(11) Cable entry for M40 metric screw joints
(for DC 'OUT' cable)
Cable diameter 18 - 25 mm
IMPORTANT! Metric screw joints and blank screw joints are supplied with the Fronius
String Control 250/30, but are not fitted.
EN
Fronius String Control 250/30 - inside the device
Item Description
(1) DIN rail for fitting optional AC power pack
(2) RJ 45 connections for data communication cables
(3) Terminals for data communication cables
Max. cable cross-section 2.5 mm²
(4) Address selector
(5) DIN rail for fitting a standard overvoltage protection device
13
(6) Terminals with fuse holders for DC 'IN' cables
Single-wire cable cross section 2.5 - 25 mm²
Multi-strand cable cross section 2.0 - 16 mm²
(7) M12 connection for DC 'OUT' cable
(8) M12 connection for DC 'OUT' cable
(9) Measuring channel 5
(10) Measuring channel 4
(11) Measuring channel 3
(12) Measuring channel 2
(13) Measuring channel 1
(14) Terminals for DC 'IN' cables
Single-wire cable cross section 2.5 - 25 mm²
Multi-strand cable cross section 2.0 - 16 mm²
14
Installing the Fronius String Control 250/30
EN
Selecting wall
plugs and screws
Installation position
Selecting a location
Different wall plugs and screws are needed to install the Fronius String Control 250/30 depending on the wall surface. As a result, wall plugs and screws are not supplied as standard with the Fronius String Control 250/30. The installer is responsible for selecting the
right wall plugs and screws.
The Fronius String Control 250/30 can be installed in any position between the horizontal
and vertical.
However, the cable entries and outlets must always be positioned pointing downwards.
Take the following criteria into account when selecting the location:
- Install only on a solid, level surface; the housing must not distort when tightened
- The ambient temperature must not be less than -25 °C or more than +55 °C
- IP 55 degree of protection means that the Fronius String Control 250/30 can be installed outside and exposed to a certain amount of moisture. However, we recommend that the device is not exposed directly to moisture.
- Protect from direct sunlight and exposure to the elements
- Install beneath the solar modules if possible
Installing the
Fronius String
Control 250/30
1
2
15
3
4
16
Fitting metric screw joints to the Fronius String Con-
M20
M40M40
M20*
M25
M32
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
trol 250/30
General - Use the right number of metric screw joints for the available solar module strings. Fit
sealing glands into empty screw joints.
- Insert the metric screw joints in the following order:
from bottom to top and from left to right.
- Tighten the metric screw joints and blank screw joints with the tightening torque specified for their size.
Recommended
order in which to
insert the metric
screw joints
EN
Fitting metric
screw joints to
the Fronius String
Control 250/30
* As an outlet for the grounding cable only if optional overvoltage protection is used
1
(1) Lock nut
(2) Screw joint
(3) Strain-relief device
2
17
Tightening torques for metric
screw joints
Size Lock nut/screw joint Screw joint/strain-relief device
M20 6.0 Nm 4.0 Nm
M25 8.0 Nm 5.0 Nm
M32 10.0 Nm 6.5 Nm
M40 13.0 Nm 8.5 Nm
The screw joint is made on the inside of the Fronius String Control 250/30.
The tightening torque for the strain-relief device applies to connected cables.
18
Connecting the Fronius String Control 250/30 to the
inverter
Safety
Connecting aluminium cables
EN
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
Aluminium cables can also be connected to the DC connections.
NOTE! When connecting aluminium cables:
- observe national and international guidelines regarding the connection of
aluminium cables
- follow the instructions of the cable manufacturer
- Once a year, make sure that the cables are securely connected according to
the specified torque.
Preparation
1
NOTE! Mark the DC 'OUT' cables
according to their intended polarity.
19
Connection with
(1)
(2)
V-type terminal
lug
1
(1) Tightening torque 25 Nm
(2) Tightening torque 6 Nm
2
Connection with
cable lug
Connecting the
Fronius String
Control 250/30 to
the inverter
1
(1) Tightening torque 28 Nm
(2) Tightening torque 6 Nm
Connect the DC 'OUT' cables to the inverter as described in the inverter operating in-
1
structions
NOTE! Note the following points when connecting:
- Is solar module grounding required or is it already grounded?
If so, note the special features of the respective solar module grounding
- If the solar module is already grounded, Fronius recommends that you always use string fuses in the ungrounded branch.
- Connect the DC 'OUT' cable to the inverter, ensuring that the polarity is correct
2
20
Connecting solar module strings to the Fronius
2314
78
69
5
12 1413
11 10
17 18
16 19
15 20
String Control 250/30
Safety
Notes on connecting the solar
module strings to
the Fronius String
Control 250/30
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
IMPORTANT! Always connect DC cables of the same polarity to the terminals
for DC 'IN' cables and to the terminals with fuse holders for DC 'IN' cables.
NOTE! To ensure problem-free connection of the DC cables to the terminals,
note the following minimum lengths for the DC cables (measured from the inner
bottom edge of the Fronius String Control 250/30):
- 350 mm to the terminals for DC 'IN' cables
- 350 mm to the terminals with fuse holders for DC 'IN' cables
EN
NOTE! Note the order for introducing and connecting the DC cables:
1. from left to right
2. from bottom to top
Recommended order for introducing and connecting the DC cables
The following terminal assignment is recommended:
- Lay the cables for the terminals without fuse holders through screw connections 1 to
10
- Lay the cables for the terminals with fuse holders through screw connections 11 to 20
NOTE! If you are connecting fewer than 30 solar module strings, we recommend
that you distribute the DC cables as evenly as possible between the measuring
channels. For example, connect 15 solar module strings so that 3 DC cables are
connected per measuring channel. If possible, leave individual terminals free between the DC cables.
NOTE! If solar modules with different power tolerances are being connected, we
recommend that the power be distributed as equally as possible between the
measuring channels.
21
Pin assignment
(B)(A) (B‘)(A‘)
-
+
for grounded solar modules
In the case of grounded solar modules, only the ungrounded poles of the solar module
strings may be connected to the protected terminals (A).
Example of pin
assignment for
grounded solar
modules
Negative solar module grounding
Positive solar module grounding
DC- DC+
B (in) B' (out) A' (out) A (in)
DC+ DC-
B (in) B' (out) A' (out) A (in)
-
+
(B)(A) (B‘)(A‘)
Connecting solar
module strings to
the Fronius String
Control 250/30
Pin assignment for solar module grounding on the negative pole
1
(2)
(1)
(1) Tightening torque 6.5 Nm
(2) Tightening torque 1.5 Nm
(3) Tightening torque 2.0 - 4.0 Nm
Pin assignment for solar module grounding on the positive pole
2
22
Criteria for selecting the right string fuses
General String fuses are used in the Fronius String Control 250/30 to provide additional protection
for solar modules.
The maximum short circuit current I
fuse protection.
of the solar module is crucial in affording it the correct
sc
EN
Criteria for selecting the right
string fuses
Effects of using
underrated fuses
The following criteria must be met for each solar module string when selecting suitable fuses:
-I
-IN < 2.4 x I
> 1.8 x I
N
SC
SC
-UN >/= max. input voltage of the inverter used:
Fronius Agilo .... 1000 V DC
- Fuse dimensions: diameter 10 x 38 mm
I
N
I
SC
Nominal current of fuse
Short circuit current for standard test conditions (STC) according to the solar mod-
ule data sheet
U
Rated voltage of fuse
N
NOTE! The nominal current rating of the fuse must not exceed the maximum fuse
protection specified in the data sheet supplied by the solar module manufacturer.
If a maximum fuse protection is not specified, then this information must be requested from the solar module manufacturer.
With underrated fuses, the nominal current value may be less than the short circuit current
of the solar module.
Effect:
The fuse may trip in intensive lighting conditions.
Fuse recommendations
Application example
NOTE! Always select fuses whose rated voltage is greater than or equal to the
maximum input voltage of the inverter used.
For total safety, always use the following fuses, which have been tested by Fronius:
- Littelfuse SPF fuses
Fronius shall not be liable, and all warranty claims shall be invalidated, for damage or other
incidents that are associated with the use of different fuses.
Maximum short circuit current (I
) of the solar module = 5.75 A
SC
According to the criteria for selecting the right string fuses, the fuse must have a nominal
current more than 1.8 times and less than 2.4-times the short circuit current:
- 5.75 A x 1.8 = 10.35 A
- 5.75 A x 2.4 = 13.8 A
Fuse to be selected from the 'Fuses' table:
SPF D 12 with a nominal current of 12.0 A and a nominal voltage of 1000 V AC / DC
23
Fuses
Nominal current Fuse Nominal current Fuse
4.0 A SPF 4 9.0 A SPF 9
5.0 A SPF 5 10.0 A SPF 10
6.0 A SPF 6 12.0 A SPF 12
7.0 A SPF 7 15.0 A SPF 15
8.0 A SPF 8 20.0 A SPF 20
'Fuses' table: Extract of suitable fuses, e.g. Littelfuse fuses
24
Fitting string fuses
2
EN
Safety
Selecting string
fuses
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in solar mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- Never fit or remove fuses while under load.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
Select the string fuses to protect the solar modules in accordance with the module manufacturer's instructions or as described in the 'Criteria for selecting the correct string fuses'
section:
- max. 20 A per fuse holder
- max. 30 solar module strings
- max. 50 A per measuring channel
- max. 250 A total input current
- Fuse dimensions: diameter 10 x 38 mm
IMPORTANT!
- Note the safety requirements for the solar modules
- Note the requirements of the solar module manufacturer
Fitting string fuses
NOTE! Fit string fuses in the fuse holders according to the number of solar mod-
ules in use.
1
25
Connecting data communication cables to the Froni-
Line/ISDN
OUT
IN
OUTIN
OUT
IN
(4)
(1) (2)
(3)
us String Control 250/30
Linking options The Fronius String Control 250/30 can be linked into the Fronius Solar Net in 2 ways:
- using pre-assembled data communication cables with RJ45 plug connectors
Cable recommendation:
cable type CAT 5, 1:1 cable
- using multi-core data communication cables.
Max. cable cross-section 2.5 mm²
Additional insulation for data communication
cables
Configuration example
RJ45 connection sockets Spring terminals for connecting multi-core data com-
munication cables
IMPORTANT! To provide additional insulation for the data communication cables, a piece
of silicone tube is supplied as standard with the Fronius String Control 250/30.
When data communication cables are run inside the Fronius String Control 250/30, the cables must be enclosed by the silicone tube.
26
IN 1 +12V IN 1 +12V IN 1 +12V
2 GND 2 GND 2 GND
3 Tx+ 3 Tx+ 3 Tx+
4Rx+ 4Rx+ 4Rx+
5Rx- 5Rx- 5Rx-
6 Tx- 6 Tx- 6 Tx-
7 GND 7 GND 7 GND
8 +12V 8 +12V 8 +12V
OUT 1 +12V OUT 1 +12V OUT 1 +12V
2 GND 2 GND 2 GND
3Rx+ 3Rx+ 3Rx+
4 Tx+ 4 Tx+ 4 Tx+
5 Tx- 5 Tx- 5 Tx-
6Rx- 6Rx- 6Rx-
7 GND 7 GND 7 GND
8 +12V 8 +12V 8 +12V
EN
Safety
Connecting the
RJ45 data communication cables to the
Fronius String
Control 250/30
(1) Inverter with Fronius Com Card
(2) Fronius String Control
(3) Fronius Datalogger
(4) Termination plug
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV modules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
1
2
27
3
5 Nm
2
1
3
1
2
DATCOM IN
DATCOM OUT
3
* Silicone tube Ø 25 x 510 mm
NOTE! Procedure if there is only 1 data communication cable connected to the
Fronius String Control 250/30 (e.g. because the Fronius String Control 250/30 is
the last component in a Fronius Solar Net):
- Attach the terminating plug to the free RJ 45 connection; the terminating plug
is supplied as standard with every Fronius Datalogger.
- Insert the plastic bolt supplied as standard with the Fronius String Control
250/30 into the free opening in the rubber insert.
4
28
Connecting multicore data communication cables to
the Fronius String
Control 250/30
If multi-core data communication cables with a diameter of up to 6 mm are used, both cables are run through the rubber insert and the opening provided, just as for the RJ 45 cable.
The following steps apply to data communication cables with a max. diameter of up to 6
mm.
Strip roughly 50 - 70 mm from the end of the data communication cable
1
EN
2
IMPORTANT! You need to know the assignment of the individual strands when you connect them to the terminals.
3
* Silicone tube Ø 25 x 510 mm
Terminal assignments:
Tightening torque 5.0 Nm
NOTE! Procedure if there is only 1 multi-core data communication cable connected to the Fronius String Control 250/30 (e.g. because the Fronius String Control
250/30 is the last component in a Fronius Solar Net):
- If the data communication cable is connected to the "IN" terminals, attach the
terminating plug to the "OUT" RJ 45 connection.
- If the data communication cable is connected to the "OUT" terminals, attach
the terminating plug to the "IN" RJ45 connection.
The terminating plug is supplied as standard with the Fronius Datalogger.
- Insert the plastic bolt supplied as standard with the Fronius String Control
250/30 into the free opening in the rubber insert.
- Replace any unused metric screw joints with blank joints.
29
Overcurrent and undervoltage cut-out
General The Fronius String Control 250/30 has a cut-out function that interrupts the power supply
in the Fronius Solar Net:
- in response to overcurrent, e.g. in the event of a short circuit
- in response to undervoltage
Functional principle
Safety
Restoring the
power supply automatically
The overcurrent and undervoltage cut-out does not depend on the current flow direction.
If the String Control 250/30 measures a current flow of > 3 A or a voltage of < 7 V while
supplying Fronius Solar Net components, the power supply in the Solar Net is interrupted.
The power supply can be restored automatically or manually.
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV modules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
Jumper positions:
(1)(2)
A Power supply is restored automati-
cally
(factory default)
M Power supply is restored manually
Jumper (1) must be set to position A in order to restore the power supply automatically.
- After cutting out because of overcurrent or undervoltage, the Fronius String Control
250/30 attempts to restore the power supply in the Fronius Solar Net every 5 seconds
while the short circuit, for example, is still present.
- The 'PWROK' LED (2) flashes briefly every 5 seconds.
- When the power supply is restored, the 'PWROK' LED lights up green.
If there is no short circuit and the 'PWROK' LED does not light up, the unit has cut out in
response to undervoltage.
In this case, the Fronius DATCOM components must be supplied externally from an external power pack.
30
Restoring the
(1)(2)
power supply
manually
Restoring the power supply manually helps the installation engineer to troubleshoot and
eliminate faults in the Fronius Solar Net.
Jumper positions:
A Power supply is restored automati-
cally
(factory default)
B Power supply is restored manually
Jumper (1) must be set to position M in order to restore the power supply manually.
- There are 2 ways to restore the power supply manually after a cut-out due to overcurrent or undervoltage:
EN
a) Unplug the data communication cables from the RJ 45 IN and OUT connections
and plug in again
or
disconnect and reconnect the multi-core data communication cables from the IN
and OUT terminals:
unplug the cable for an external power supply unit, if present
b) Darken the 'PWROK' LED for 0.5 - max. 2 seconds (by placing your finger over
it, for example)
A certain level of ambient brightness is needed for the 'PWROK' LED to detect
that it has gone dark. If the local lighting conditions are insufficient, the LED will
not respond. In this case, illuminate the LED with a torch, for example, and then
darken.
- When the power supply is restored, the 'PWROK' LED lights up green.
If there is no short circuit and the 'PWROK' LED does not light up, the unit has cut out in
response to undervoltage.
In this case, the DATCOM components must be supplied externally from an external power
pack.
31
Connecting an external power supply
2
General The Fronius String Control 250/30 is powered via the Fronius Solar Net.
The power supplied via the Fronius Solar Net may not be sufficient if additional Fronius
DATCOM components are present or if the data communication cables are more than 100
m long.
In this case, power is supplied in the following ways:
- via a DIN rail power pack that be optionally integrated in the Fronius String Control
250/30
NOTE! Due to the challenging nature of operating conditions, only the Fronius original DIN rail power pack may be installed. (item
number 43,0001,3405)
- via one of the other Fronius DATCOM components in SolarNet
- via an external power pack
Fronius recommends supplying power externally via the optional DIN rail power pack or
one of the other Fronius DATCOM components in SolarNet, if possible.
If there is no simpler connection, the following work instruction describes how to connect
the external power pack to the Fronius String Control 250/30.
Safety
Connecting an
external power
supply
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
Detach the metric screw joint for the data communication cable
1
Remove the rubber insert
Introduce the power pack cable into the Fronius String Control 250/30
3
IMPORTANT! The power pack cable must pass through a silicone tube, just like the data
communication cable.
32
Introduce the power pack cable into the silicone tube
7
4
5
If there is no free opening in the rubber insert, cut an additional recess for the power
6
pack cable in the rubber insert
Insert the data communication and power pack cables into the rubber insert
Insert the rubber insert with the cables into the metric screw joint
8
Tighten the metric screw joint
9
* Silicone tube Ø 14 x 420 mm
EN
33
Setting the address
0XX
1XX
010
0XX
1XX
370
0XX
1XX
231
Safety
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
General The Fronius Solar Net allows up to 200 Fronius String Control 250/30 units to be used at
the same time. Addresses are assigned to distinguish between individual Fronius String
Controls.
Use the address selector to set addresses 0 - 199:
(1) Jumper for the hundredths
(2) (3)
(1)
0XX
1XX
(2) Wheel for the tens
(3) Wheel for the ones
Setting the address - examples
Fronius String Control 250/30
No. 1
Fronius String Control 250/30
No. 37
Fronius String Control 250/30
No. 123
34
Closing the Fronius String Control 250/30
1
EN
Safety
Closing the Fronius String Control
250/30
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
2
Fitting the contact protectors Closing the Fronius String Control 250/30
35
Settings
2
General All settings for the Fronius String Control 250/30 are applied using the "Fronius Solar.ac-
cess" software.
Step one Install the Fronius Solar.access software on the PC
Possible settings
for the Fronius
String Control
250/30
1
Administration / Create system
Systems / [Name of the system] / Settings / String Control
3
(1)
(2)
(3)
(1) Selecting the number (address) of
(2) Strings per measuring channel
(3) Limit values:
the Fronius String Control 250/30 to
be set
- max. energy deviation in %
- threshold value in Ah per string
Strings per measuring channel
Max. energy deviation
Threshold The average electric charge of all strings in Ah at which the evaluation of the "max. energy
Enter the number of PV module strings for each measuring channel.
This results in automatic correction of measuring channel deviations, which would only be
required if there were a different number of strings per channel.
The 5 measuring channels record the total current from the connected solar module strings
over the entire feed-in day. In the evening, the Fronius String Control 250/30 calculates the
mean for all the measuring channels and compares the current on each measuring channel with the mean for all measuring channels. If the Fronius String Control 250/30 detects
that one of the measuring channels is deviating from this mean, a status code is sent to the
Fronius Datalogger.
In the "Max. energy deviation" input box, define the deviation as a % above which a measuring channel should be classified as faulty.
Standard value for the max. energy deviation: 5% - 10%
Note any specifications provided by the solar module manufacturer.
deviation" is to start.
This will prevents status codes due to bad weather.
36
Data and status message display
Data display The latest Fronius String Control 250/30 data can be found at:
Anlagen / [Name of the system] / Aktuell / String Control
EN
Status codes Status codes generated by the Fronius String Control 250/30 are sent to the Datalogger.
The Datalogger responds in the same way as for a status code generated by the inverter.
Status codes can also be sent by SMS, fax or e-mail. You will find further information in the
'Fronius DATCOM Details' operating instructions.
The Fronius String Control 250/30 service codes are State 901 to 905. These service
codes indicate an excessive deviation in measuring channels 1 to 5.
We recommend that you activate the output comparison in the "Settings - General" menu.
This provides you with a list of service codes each time data is downloaded from the Datalogger to the PC. This list provides a brief overview of all the messages from the inverter
and the Fronius String Control 250/30.
37
Status diagnostics and troubleshooting
(1)
Safety
Status diagnostics and troubleshooting
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV mod-
ules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before attaching any connections.
- All connections must be made by qualified electricians.
- Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
90x
Service codes from the Fronius String Control 250/30 logged by the Datalogger or sent
according to the settings
x ... indicates the measuring channel
Cause: Excessive deviation from the set value on a measuring channel
x = 1 ... measuring channel 1
x = 2 ... measuring channel 2
x = 3 ... measuring channel 3
x = 4 ... measuring channel 4
x = 5 ... measuring channel 5
Remedy: Check the string fuses, check the solar module strings and
check the settings in the Fronius Solar.access software
No data is logged during the day
Cause: The Fronius Solar Net is open (the 'Connection' LED on the Da-
talogger lights up red)
Remedy: - Switch the jumper to restore the power supply manually
- Check leads, connections and power supply:
look for the fault from among the first Fronius String Control
250/30 in OUT direction where the LED ‘X’ (1) lights up red
or there is no power supply
38
Replace the string fuses
3
EN
Safety
Preparation Break the connection to the incoming AC lines using the AC disconnecter for the in-
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
WARNING! Work that is carried out incorrectly can cause serious injury and damage. The following activities must only be carried out by trained and qualified personnel. Note the safety rules in these operating instructions.
WARNING! An electric shock can be fatal. Danger from DC voltage in PV modules.
- Make sure that both the input side and output side of the device are de-energised before starting any maintenance work.
- Never replace fuses while under load.
verter
Interrupt the solar module strings to the Fronius String Control 250/30
Put up a clearly legible and easy to understand warning notice to prevent opened/interrupted connections being reclosed or switched on again
Check that there is no voltage in the solar module strings
Short circuit the solar module strings
Open the cover
Check the continuity of the fuse holder at the terminals
Replacing the
string fuses
NOTE! Only use fuses that meet the correct fuse selection criteria to protect the
solar modules.
Fuse dimensions: diameter 10 x 38 mm
1
Determine and eliminate the cause of the faulty fuse
2
39
And finally... Close cover
3
1
Eliminate the short circuit in the solar module strings
2
Eliminate the interruption of the solar module strings to the Fronius String Control 250/
30
Restore the connection to the incoming AC lines using the AC disconnecter for the in-
4
verter
40
Technical data
EN
Technical data
max. input voltage in open circuit 1000 VDC
max. input current 250 A
max. input current per fuse holder 20 A
max. number of strings (with integral solar module fuse) 30
max. conductor cross-section for terminals on the DC side
single-wire cable cross-section
multi-strand cable cross section
max. conductor cross-section for the M12 connections on the
inverter side
number of measuring channels 5
max. current per measuring channel 50 A
screw joint for fixing cables on the solar module side M32
with 3-way sealing glands
screw joint for fixing cables on the inverter side M40
EMC emissions class A
degree of protection IP 55
protection class II
environmental conditions -25 °C - +55 °C
dimensions (excluding screw joints) 720 x 580 x 200 mm
Fronius DATCOM power supply via Fronius Solar Net
optional via 12 V DIN rail power pack
max. power consumption for Fronius Solar Net 110 mA
Weight 16.3 kg
2.5 - 25 mm
2.0 - 16 mm
240 mm²
-13 °F - +131 °F
28.3 x 22.8 x 7.9 in.
36 lbs.
2
2
41
42
EN
43
Fronius Worldwide - www.fronius.com/addresses
Fronius International GmbH
4600 Wels, Froniusplatz 1, Austria
E-Mail: pv@fronius.com
http://www.fronius.com
Under http://www.fronius.com/addresses you will find all addresses of our sales branches and partner firms!
Fronius USA LLC Solar Electronics Division
6797 Fronius Drive, Portage, IN 46368
E-Mail: pv-us@fronius.com
http://www.fronius-usa.com
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